Ottawa Lake Campground in the Kettle Moraine State Forest offers outdoor recreation just 35 miles from Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. The campground sits at an elevation of 860 feet within the glacially-formed terrain of the Southern Unit. Winter temperatures average 18°F while summer averages 73°F, allowing for year-round access with both summer tent camping and winter yurt camping options near Wauwatosa.
What to do
Hiking to natural springs: At Ottawa Lake Campground, visitors can explore unique geological features. "Beautiful campground with hiking to see the natural springs which is the coolest!! Drank fresh spring water!" notes Autumn S., highlighting a natural feature not found at most campsites.
Lakeside swimming: The parks offer water recreation with clean beaches for cooling off. "The lake is very clean and the site are a good size. Gets very busy on the weekends!" reports Neysha R. about Ottawa Lake. This makes weekday visits preferable during summer months.
Winter camping: Unlike many Wisconsin campgrounds that close seasonally, some remain open year-round. "No showers in winter but awesome," writes David H. about Ottawa Lake Campground, making it one of few options for winter yurt accommodations around Wauwatosa.
Kayaking through wildlife habitat: For water enthusiasts, Turner Lake South offers kayaking with wildlife viewing. "I enjoy this route for the wildlife and nature scenery. I've seen beavers, minks, ferrets, and sand cranes on my two trips so far," writes Cora M.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Naga-Waukee Park maintains well-kept facilities despite its small size. "The campground area is nice and wooded. Provides ample privacy from other campers," notes Kyle B., who appreciated the cleanliness during a late spring visit.
Beach access: Kohler-Andrae State Park features Lake Michigan shoreline. "Right on Lake Michigan, had nice and clean beaches. Campsites are a nice-not the most private but its a big park, and the facilities are stocked and clean," reports Elliot Q.
Trail connectivity: Many sites connect to established trail networks. "We have visited the Campground 5 times this year already, we love hiking all the trails in the Kettle Moraine Southern Unit," explains Mark D. about Ottawa Lake Campground, pointing to the extensive trail system as a major draw.
Wooded camping areas: Most Menomonee Park sites offer natural shade. "We have been to Menomonee park several times. It is one of the kids favorites. The sites are just about all wooded. Not huge but a good size for a country park," says Matt N.
What you should know
Road noise levels: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise depending on site location. "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," warns Linda N. about Ottawa Lake Campground. Request sites farther from highways when booking.
Bug preparation essential: Wisconsin camping requires insect protection. "Nicely nestled in the kettle moraine but busy in the summer. Bring bug spray," advises Adam about Ottawa Lake Campground. Ticks are particularly common in wooded areas during spring and summer.
Winter facilities limitations: Kohler-Andrae State Park and other year-round facilities reduce services during winter. While camping remains available, expect limited bathroom facilities and no running water during freezing months.
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance booking, especially for summer weekends. Sites at popular locations fill months in advance, with holiday weekends booking up to 11 months ahead.
Tips for camping with families
Activity centers for children: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers extensive programming. "There are a ton of activities here to include two bouncy pillows, three play grounds, a pool, water slides, a kids water activity area, beach, water obstacle course, inflatable slide, RC car track, laser tag, mini golf," notes Garret K., listing amenities beyond those at state parks.
Holiday weekend programming: Several campgrounds host themed weekends. "We booked a site here for Halloween and had a great time. My kids love Halloween Weekend camping at the various JellyStone Campgrounds," shares Marc W. about seasonal events.
Budget-friendly options: State parks offer more economical alternatives to resorts. "These campsites are as low as $12/night!! One of my favorite spots to test new gear. Family friendly," says Addison G. about Turner Lake South.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds feature wildlife observation opportunities. "The quarry is good for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. There is a beach with life guards," explains Matt N. about Menomonee Park, noting recreational options for families.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup distances: At some campgrounds, utilities may be far from parking pads. "These sites share an electric box. Some spaces the box is further than 30 feet from the pad," warns Debra M. about Honeysuckle Hollow. Bring extension cords of at least 50 feet.
Site selection strategy: Big Foot Beach State Park offers varied site quality. "Spaces are not consistent, some very large and shaded and some smaller and crowded," notes Debra M. Review site maps carefully and read reviews for specific site numbers before booking.
Winter RV camping: Cold weather camping requires preparation. "We've stayed here twice. Nice, clean, well-run campground with some electric sites and several bathroom/shower buildings if needed," says Heather H. about Ottawa Lake Campground, which offers winter camping options for hardy RVers near Wauwatosa.
Full hookup limitations: Most state parks offer electric only. "We had full hookup which was nice," mentions Kim Z. about Jellystone Park, one of few locations offering water and sewer connections in addition to electric. Public campgrounds typically provide electric only with water spigots nearby.
