Ottawa Lake Campground offers year-round camping in the Southern Unit of Kettle Moraine State Forest near Waukesha, Wisconsin. The campground features 100 sites with 30 electric hookups across an accessible terrain of glacial hills and kettles. Winter campers can access heated showers and flush toilets even during colder months, making it popular for off-season outdoor enthusiasts.
What to do
Hiking on the Ice Age Trail: Scuppernong Trail connects directly to camping areas at Ottawa Lake Campground, allowing exploration of natural springs. "There are wonderful water toys at a beach with a pier. There is a small doggie beach. There is a fishing spot," notes a visitor to Scenic Ridge Campground about nearby water activities.
Paddling and swimming: The clean lakes throughout the region provide multiple swimming options. At Naga-Waukee Park, "The beach on the shores of Lake Nagawicka is well-groomed, clean, has a seasonal lifeguard and a playground within earshot," according to a camper. Both natural and developed swimming areas exist throughout the region.
Winter camping: Cold weather doesn't stop camping opportunities in the area. One camper at Ottawa Lake noted, "No showers in winter but awesome." Several campgrounds remain open year-round with reduced services, providing opportunities for winter hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on the extensive trail systems.
What campers like
Family-oriented water activities: Jellystone Park at Caledonia receives praise for its water attractions beyond natural lakes. "The sites were spacious and clean, complete with the basics (fire ring, flushing toilets, showers, drinking water)," reports a camper at another local campground about the standard amenities.
Well-maintained facilities: The region's campgrounds typically feature clean, modern facilities. "It's a nice campground. They have everything from just electrical hook up to full hookup to drive through spots. The pool and bath house is very nice," explains a visitor to Milton KOA.
Access to Lake Geneva: Visitors appreciate the proximity to Lake Geneva without resort prices. One camper observed that Big Foot Beach State Park provides "Nice large sites. gravel spot for arc/trailer. fire pit and picnic table. trails for hiking are nice, but the overall camping area isn't very big."
What you should know
Seasonal popularity: Summer draws large crowds to many campgrounds. "The lake is very clean and the site are a good size. Gets very busy on the weekends!" cautions a reviewer at Ottawa Lake Campground.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds are affected by highway proximity. At Menomonee Park, "The sites are just about all wooded. Not huge but a good size for a country park. Most offer decent separation from your neighbor," says a repeat visitor.
Reservation requirements: Plan well ahead, especially for electric sites and weekend stays. "We were able to grab a nonelectric site and transfer to an electric site when one cancelled last minute," reported one lucky camper about securing a spot during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Beach options for children: Lake swimming areas with designated children's sections provide safe water play. A visitor to Snug Harbor Inn Campground found "Great three tiered camping spot. Full hookup, and great views. Has a pub/restaurant with good food. Lots to do!"
Activity-focused campgrounds: Some campgrounds offer structured recreation programs. "Great place to bring our three boys. There are 2 playgrounds, a nice pool, games and activities for the kids over weekends," explains a family at Milton KOA about their experience.
Quieter camping sections: For families needing earlier bedtimes, request sites away from main roads. "We've stayed here twice. Nice, clean, well-run campground with some electric sites and several bathroom/shower buildings if needed. Nice little lake to swim or paddle on," reports an Ottawa Lake camper.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: Several campgrounds offer accessible pull-through sites. "The pull through space was level and allowed staying hooked up to truck. Full hook ups was nice for the last stop before parking til next trip," notes a visitor to Milton KOA.
Electric hookups: Most campgrounds offer limited electric sites that book quickly. A camper at Big Foot Beach State Park noted, "nice campsite with newer bathrooms and showers," highlighting the improved facilities many parks now feature.
Dump station access: Position can affect convenience when leaving. "We've been full time RVers for 4 years and this is a beautiful campground close to 'home'. We stay here a couple of times each year for doctor and dentist appointments, visiting family and friends, and general relaxation," shares a seasonal visitor to Ottawa Lake Campground.
