Kettle Moraine State Forest spans over 30,000 acres of glacial hills, lakes, and forests in eastern Wisconsin, creating diverse camping terrain within 30 minutes of West Bend. The area experiences warm summer days with temperatures averaging 75-85°F and cool evenings dropping to 50-60°F, making extended camping stays comfortable with proper layering. Seasonal weather patterns bring periodic thunderstorms during summer months, particularly in July when rainfall averages 3.5 inches.
What to do
Hiking the Ice Age Trail backpacking sites: Pike Lake offers remote camping directly on the Ice Age Trail. "A last minute decision to camp for a night led my son and I to the often visited Pike Lake unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. We picked one of the three backpacking sites that are along the Ice Age Trail and away from the other traditional sites close to the lake," shares Steve M. These sites require approximately a quarter-mile hike from parking.
Swimming in spring-fed lakes: Lake Lenwood Beach and Campground offers direct water access sites. "We've been here several times and love the T sites, fishing and kayaking right from your site!" notes Nancy S. The clear spring-fed water maintains consistent temperatures throughout summer.
Stargazing from observation points: Pike Lake includes an astronomy-focused trail and elevated viewing areas. "Hiking is great beginner trails within the park and connects to the IAT (Ice Age Trail). Take the walk up Powder Hill to the tower!" recommends Susan S., highlighting the park's interpretive night sky opportunities.
Local food explorations: Several nearby establishments serve camping visitors. "If you like ice cream, head to Dundee and visit the Hamburger Haus," suggests Sarah L., describing a popular destination near Long Lake. The restaurant serves ice cream scoops nearly twice the standard size.
What campers like
Private, wooded campsites: Long Lake Campground offers secluded sites within the northern Kettle Moraine unit. "Very nice campground. Sites are decent sized for tenting or small camper. Almost all the sites are surrounded by trees and small brush so it gives a private feel," reports Brandon L., who visited in 2023.
Clean facilities: Harrington Beach State Park maintains well-kept amenities. "ULTRA clean bathrooms...super clean bathrooms, and a great beach with amazing hiking around the quarry," notes Erica H., emphasizing the park's maintenance standards. The park's bathrooms feature individual shower rooms rather than shared shower spaces.
Lake activities: Multiple water features provide recreation opportunities. "Nice clean swimming and lots of hiking and biking options," shares Noreen T. about Mauthe Lake. The lake maintains a no-motorized boat policy, creating quieter swimming conditions.
Proximity to urban areas: Several campgrounds offer wilderness experiences close to cities. "Mauthe has several great wooded sites. You can't go wrong with how close the park is to Milwaukee," explains Caroline K., noting the park's accessibility for weekend trips from urban centers.
What you should know
Reservations required for summer weekends: The popularity of these campgrounds necessitates advance planning. "We got a last minute reservation and stayed on the handicap site...The only issues were more sunny than I like and some people walking through our site to the bathroom," shares Karyn S. about Ledge County Park.
Firewood considerations: Several parks offer firewood for purchase, with prices varying. "The firewood was a bit pricey compared to other parks," notes Renee R. about Ledge Park. Local regulations prohibit bringing outside firewood due to invasive species concerns.
Site selection matters: Campground layouts vary significantly between and within parks. "The sites are nice size, and there are many with shade, a few with mostly sun, and a lot with a mix," explains Jimmy P. regarding Long Lake. Research site maps before booking, particularly for campgrounds with limited privacy.
Shower facilities vary: While most campgrounds offer showers, quality differs. "The pay shower was horrible: the water smelled like rotten eggs," reports one visitor to Lake Lenwood. Call ahead to confirm shower status and potential costs.
Tips for camping with families
Beach selection for kids: Mauthe Lake Campground offers family-friendly water access. "Nice beach/swimming area, bike path, and playground for the kids. Also the most beautiful sunset over the lake and pines in July," recommends Kaylyn C. The beach includes a gradual entry area suitable for younger children.
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play structures. "Large dune-like area behind us that gave us something to look at, but helped maintain privacy. The lake was a short bike ride from our site," shares Amanda G. about Harrington Beach State Park, noting the park's child-friendly layout.
Multi-activity sites: Pike Lake combines various attractions within walking distance. "If I had to guess I think it was about a quarter mile hike to the site. There are a few back there but once there it feels secluded. Kids had a great time exploring climbing on a little rock wall that was back there," describes Matt N.
Off-season visits: Consider spring or fall camping for fewer crowds. "We love this campground since I was a teen. We went this past labor day weekend and loved the nice big sites," notes Mel C., highlighting the benefits of shoulder season camping with families.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Kohler-Andrae State Park accommodates various RV sizes. "Each of the 32 sites is unique in their own way. Some are large and flat perfect for a class A (#2 #4, #29 #31 is okay, but smaller), some incorporate the geography into the site," advises Sugar Maple S. about Pike Lake, noting specific site recommendations.
Turn radius considerations: Navigation within some parks requires attention. "There is a TIGHT turn in the campground loop near site #17 to be aware of with longer trailers," warns Sugar Maple S. Pre-arrival research prevents difficult maneuvering situations.
Electric site locations: Power availability varies within campgrounds. "Generally, the inner ring is electric (except #23) and the outer ring is non-electric," explains a Pike Lake review, providing specific layout information helpful for planning.
Seasonal considerations: Several campgrounds operate with limited schedules. "Pike Lake is a local favorite, with decent hiking trails and beach," shares Susan S., though noting the campground itself offers "relatively little privacy so you'll make quick friends with your neighbors."
