Kettle Moraine State Forest spans over 30,000 acres with unique glacial features formed during the last ice age. The terrain includes kames, eskers, and kettles that create a varied camping landscape with elevations from 700 to 1,200 feet. Winter camping remains available at select sites with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing from December through March.
What to do
Hiking on Ice Age Trail: Access multiple segments of this 1,200-mile scenic trail from the Mauthe Lake Campground. "Wonderful trail running opportunities on the Ice Age. There is a crushed gravel trail running from here to Long Lake that is great for running/walking/biking," notes Sarah L., who recommends visiting Mauthe Lake Campground for trail access.
Fishing at multiple lakes: Cast for various fish species at Mauthe Lake or other water bodies throughout the forest system. "Good fishing at mauthe lake," reports Haley K., adding that the "big campsites" make it comfortable to store gear and prepare catches.
Swimming in quarry waters: The man-made swimming area at Menomonee Park offers a unique swimming experience. "The quarry is good for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. There is a beach with life guards," explains Matt N. from Menomonee Park, who appreciates this alternative to natural lake swimming.
Mini golf for family fun: The 9-hole course at Harnischfeger County Park costs just $1 per person. "The campground has alot of great amenities. Theirs a mini gulf course that we had alot of fun with," shares Taylor C., highlighting one of the more unusual activities at Harnischfeger County Park.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Privacy between campsites ranks high in camper satisfaction. "The sites in Loop 1 are varied as far as tree coverage, seclusion, and terrain. Our site (22) was relatively flat, felt secluded, had good tree coverage with some filtered sunlight," notes Abbe W. about Pinewoods Campground.
Diverse ecosystems: The varied terrain creates multiple habitat types within short distances. "Awesome campground in the north unit of Kettle Moraine. Wonderful trail around the lake and a variety of different campsites. Plenty of space, very rural. Very wisconsin!" shares Justin F., highlighting the ecological diversity.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathrooms and shower facilities matter to campers. "The shower houses are clean and so are the camp sites," comments Jessica Jazz B. about camping at Kettle Moraine Southern Unit, adding that nearby towns provide shopping and restaurant options.
Winter camping options: Year-round accessibility appeals to hardier campers. "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," advises Tim H. from Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.
What you should know
Quiet loop options: Several campgrounds offer dedicated quiet zones. "We liked this site because it was on the 'quiet loop.' No radios or pets allowed," explains Wendy Z., who enjoyed a peaceful July 4th weekend.
Firewood availability: Campground staff often deliver wood directly to sites. "The Ranger will come by often with wood to buy," notes Matt N. about Menomonee Park's convenience service for campers.
Equestrian camping requirements: For equestrian camping near West Bend, Wisconsin, specific accommodations exist. "There are ample places to bridle horses and shared corrals every four or five campsites. There are also animal waste collection areas throughout the campground," details Josh F. about Southern Unit Horseriders Campground, which offers specialized facilities for those camping with horses.
Seasonal variations: Each season brings different camping experiences and challenges. "The sites were very nice with some decent foliage between sites. The space was generous so we didn't feel crowded," reports Bill M. about a holiday weekend in the Pinewood campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Several locations offer dedicated play areas. "Nice beach/swimming area, bike path, and playground for the kids. Also the most beautiful sunset over the lake and pines in July," shares Kaylyn C. about family-friendly amenities.
Look for educational opportunities: Activity books enhance children's camping experiences. "Pick Up the activity book for kids it is a great adventure lots to do at the lake!!!" suggests Jill G., highlighting the educational resources available at Kettle Moraine South Camping.
Select secluded sites for noise buffer: Family camping can generate noise that might disturb others. "The sites are fairly close together and the trees are sparse, but it was a beautiful site and wonderfully quiet for the long weekend over the 4th of July," notes Wendy Z., emphasizing the importance of site selection.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer limited electric sites. "Campsites receive perfect five-star ratings from visitors who appreciate the well-maintained facilities," according to feedback about the equestrian camping facilities near West Bend, Wisconsin.
Pull-through site locations: RVers with horses should note specific sites. "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," advises Josh F. about the Southern Unit Horseriders Campground.
Campsite surface considerations: Wet weather impacts non-grassy sites. "One thing that I didn't like as well as Bong State Park was that there was very little grassy area in the site. When it rained the first night, most of the site was mud," cautions Glenn S. about site conditions that affect RV camping comfort.
