Kettle Moraine State Forest offers primitive camping experiences along with more modern options within 25 miles of Watertown, Wisconsin. The forest contains a diverse ecosystem of kettles, moraines and kames formed by glacial deposits over 10,000 years ago. Campsites range from basic tent-only spots to those with electrical hookups and access to showers, with most areas open from April through October.
What to Do
Hike the Ice Age Trail: Explore marked sections within Kettle Moraine State Forest with access points near Ottawa Lake Campground. "Nice, clean, well-run campground with some electric sites and several bathroom/shower buildings if needed. Nice little lake to swim or paddle on. 20 minute drive to the awesome Kettle Moraine biking trails," notes visitor Heather H.
Enjoy water activities: Lake Koshkonong provides boating and fishing opportunities near Milton-Madison SE KOA. "Great place to bring our three boys. There are 2 playgrounds, a nice pool, games and activities for the kids over weekends, and the rv sites are a good size," shares Erin B.
Visit natural springs: The Scuppernong Springs area offers unique natural features with freshwater springs. "Beautiful campground (Ottawa Lake campsites) Great Lake, hiking to see the natural springs which is the coolest!! Drank fresh spring water!" explains Autumn S. at Ottawa Lake Campground.
Try winter camping: For cold-weather enthusiasts, some sites remain open year-round. "No showers in winter but awesome," reports David H. about Ottawa Lake Campground.
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and shower buildings. At Lake Kegonsa State Park, one camper noted, "Clean facilities, friendly staff, and great trails. No bugs!"
Spacious sites: Room to spread out ranks highly in reviews. "We were located on the end of the row and had lots of grass to enjoy. Owner was very friendly and helpful," shares Michael R. about Pilgrims Campground.
Privacy between sites: Natural buffers between camping spots create better experiences. "Very nice state park. Only stayed in group campsite but was conveniently located with lots of room, picnic tables, fire pit," notes Barbara P. about Lake Kegonsa State Park.
Yurt options near Watertown: While traditional yurt camping in Watertown, Wisconsin isn't widely available, several campgrounds offer alternative glamping accommodations. "So I think my impression of this campground mostly has to do with the fact that although it's an actual campground unlike what we usually do (dispersed camping), it was completely secluded," mentions Nora S. about Pilgrims Campground.
What You Should Know
Weather considerations: Wisconsin camping requires preparation for varying conditions. "We had a 3 day holiday weekend booked for tent camping. Unfortunately the weather did not hold up and our site was completely soaking wet—we could not even steak out our tent," warns a visitor to The Playful Goose Campground.
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance booking, especially during peak season. "This was our first visit to Kettle Moraine and this site was completely booked. We were able to grab a nonelectric site and transfer to an electric site when one cancelled last minute," shares Linda N.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience road noise. "The road noise is absolutely noticeable. It was incredibly loud when we drove through the loop closest to the highway and was significantly better even just one section over," advises a camper at Ottawa Lake.
Elevation concerns: At Naga-Waukee Park, camping areas have differing elevations. "This is a great place to experience nature near the cities... large group camping, open fields, numerous grills and picnic tables," notes Lesley R.
Tips for Camping with Families
Beach access: Lakefront options provide entertainment for children. "It is quite nice and pretty out here. A lot of amenities you'll find at other campgrounds," says Corbin P. about Naga-Waukee Park.
Playground availability: Several campgrounds feature play equipment. "Large lot we were on that backed up to a creek which you cannot hear or see but it is all forest behind you," shares Amber C. about The Playful Goose Campground.
Winter activities: Some areas maintain groomed cross-country ski trails when snow falls. "Great for winter camping," notes David H. about Ottawa Lake Campground.
Yurt-style glamping near Watertown: For families seeking more comfortable alternatives to tent camping, look for canvas structures with amenities. "Great backpack camp site. Decent walk and terrain to get to the site. There is an open shelter to put your tent if you prefer to outside," reports Erin Z. about KMSF Shelter 1.
Tips from RVers
Electrical options: Check amperage available at sites before booking. "Nice enough grounds, poorly maintained electric panels... We have a 50 amp rig... we used a dogbone to connect to the 30 amp site. It was fine for a bit but then we started to get surges," cautions Jessica T. about Pilgrims Campground.
Site leveling: Consider terrain when selecting sites. "The sites were of decent size, some smaller than others and some very generous sites. I would recommend viewing their map and comparing to Google maps," advises Marc W. about Milton-Madison SE KOA.
Low clearance warnings: Watch for height restrictions. "Major CAUTION for RVs: there is an oak tree near entry with low branches and it took the AC off our friend's fifth wheel. There is also a low hanging overpass and it took the roofs off TWO fifth wheels while we were staying there," warns Kathy L. about Lake Kegonsa State Park.
Site selection: Position matters for comfort and accessibility. "Found this great little campground when I was in a pinch to find a place to put my 45ft fifth wheel. Super friendly staff, rates are reasonable and it is big rig friendly," shares Jeremy M. about Pilgrims Campground.
