Southern Unit Horseriders Campground caters to equestrian enthusiasts with direct access to 41 miles of bridle paths. The campground connects to a larger network of horse trails throughout Kettle Moraine State Forest, providing varied terrain options from beginner to advanced levels. Sites accommodate vehicles with horse trailers, offering electric and water hookups specifically designed for equine camping needs. Trail maps are available at the forest headquarters for planning daily rides.
What to do
Explore scenic overlook trails: Hikers at Pinewoods Campground can access trails directly from the camping area. "We had great hiking weather and some great scenery at the Overlook View," notes Charles M. The campground connects to multiple hiking paths with varied difficulty levels through wooded terrain.
Enjoy water recreation: Ottawa Lake at Kettle Moraine Southern Unit offers swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating options. "There is a lake with a swimming area if that's what you're looking for, not to mention a dock with great fishing. We saw a guy with a catfish the size of my forearm," shares Kelsey H. The beach area includes designated swimming zones with seasonal lifeguards.
Try miniature golf: Visitors to Harnischfeger County Park can enjoy the on-site mini golf course. "The campground has alot of great amenities. Theirs a mini gulf course that we had alot of fun with," writes Taylor C. The course costs $1 per person and provides a relaxing activity option between trail rides.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Campers appreciate the secluded feel of sites at Mauthe Lake Campground. "The sites are well separated for privacy. Also, the shower house is perfect for an end of the day washing," notes Charles M. Most sites include mature trees providing natural separation between camping spots.
Evening views: The forests offer spectacular sunset viewing opportunities. "Sunset on the lake is ridiculously beautiful!" reports Elizabeth S. about Mauthe Lake Campground. Similarly at Kettle Moraine Northern Unit, a camper noted "the most beautiful sunset over the lake and pines in July."
Trail accessibility: Many campgrounds feature direct trail connections. "We asked the ranger about hiking and she gave us a map to a trail system that connects to this campground between the group sites and loop 3," shares Art S. about Pinewoods Campground. Most trails maintain natural surfaces with some elevation changes through hardwood forest sections.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Different campground loops offer varying experiences. At Chain O' Lakes State Park, "The best sites for those hoping for privacy are in Turner Lake South and Mud Lake East. The campsites are a little bigger in Turner Lake South, I feel, but both have campsites circled by woods with a level place to pitch a tent," advises Marisa A.
Winter camping options: Several campgrounds remain open year-round. "You can camp year around in this campground. Most recent 2 times were winter camping. No host so buying wood is an issue, but pick a site on the edge and there is more than enough free. Bring a saw," suggests Tim H. about Ottawa Lake Campground.
Ground conditions: Tent campers should inspect sites before setting up. At Chain O' Lakes, one camper noted "Site had gravel and roots so tent spot took some searching and clearing to find." Similarly, after rain at Kettle Moraine Southern Unit, "most of the site was mud."
Tips for camping with families
Quiet loop options: Some campgrounds offer designated quiet areas. "We were in the quiet loop, Loop 1, which actually was very quiet. Everyone was respectful of the rules," shares Abbe W. about Pinewoods Campground. These sections typically enforce stricter noise rules and sometimes restrict pets.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region offers chances to spot native animals. "I've seen beavers, minks, ferrets, and sand cranes on my two trips so far," reports Cora M. at Chain O' Lakes. Mauthe Lake is known for bird watching opportunities along its shoreline trails.
Activity variety: Menomonee Park offers multiple recreation options. "The park has a lot of trails for hiking, biking and some horse trails. The quarry is good for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. There is a beach with life guards," explains Matt N. Most parks offer Junior Ranger programs during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site length consideration: Equestrian campers need to assess trailer accommodation. At Southern Unit Horseriders Campground, "There's also a series of pull-through sites that would make it easier for those who don't care to back trailers in or out of the site. These include electric sites 405, 404, 403, 402, and 401," suggests Josh F.
Hookup availability: Electric service varies between campgrounds. At Menomonee Park, one camper mentioned, "We stayed with a group of people here with no electricity but was able to use my generator during the day while camping in my pop-up." Check specific campground regulations regarding generator use times and quiet hours.
Gate closure timing: Some parks strictly enforce entrance gates. At Chain O' Lakes, "The gates close at 10:PM and there are tire shredders, you can leave but you can't get back in... unless you want to walk 2+ miles in the dark," cautions Brian O.
