Best Campgrounds near Whitewater, WI

The Whitewater, Wisconsin area features multiple campgrounds throughout the scenic Kettle Moraine State Forest region and along surrounding lakes. Scenic Ridge Campground, located directly in Whitewater, provides tent sites, RV hookups, cabin rentals, and glamping options with lakefront access. The broader region includes Ottawa Lake Campground and Pinewoods Campground in the Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit, both offering developed camping facilities. Milton-Madison SE KOA, approximately 15 miles west of Whitewater, provides full-service amenities for RVs with 50-amp electrical hookups, water connections, and sewer services. Many facilities maintain seasonal operations, typically open from April or May through October.

Road conditions throughout the region remain generally accessible for standard vehicles, with most campgrounds featuring gravel roads connecting camping loops. Primitive sites exist within some state forest locations, while private campgrounds predominantly offer developed facilities. "This campground had a lot of seasonal campers. Fairly large sites, problem is getting into them. Our site was downhill so that presented quite the challenge to level out," notes one camper about Scenic Ridge. The Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit maintains year-round availability at select campgrounds, though amenities may be limited during winter months. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer weekends and holidays, particularly for lakefront sites. Private campgrounds typically require advance booking and may implement minimum-stay requirements during peak periods.

Waterfront campsites near Whitewater consistently receive mention in visitor feedback. Snug Harbor Inn Campground on Turtle Lake, approximately 15 miles south of Whitewater, features tiered camping providing lake views from multiple vantage points. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, the campground offers "great views overlooking Turtle Lake" with "three levels so everyone gets a view." Several campgrounds in the region maintain a significant number of seasonal residents, creating a distinct atmosphere compared to transient-focused facilities. Visitors note varying experiences with bathroom cleanliness and maintenance across facilities. The Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit provides direct access to the Ice Age Trail system, making it particularly appealing for hikers. Some private campgrounds feature additional recreational amenities including swimming pools, playgrounds, boat rentals, and organized activities, though these often carry supplemental fees beyond base camping rates.

Best Camping Sites Near Whitewater, Wisconsin (97)

    1. Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    39 Reviews
    North Prairie, WI
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 594-6200

    "Site was spacious but very close to your neighbors. Lots to do in the area. Bathrooms and showers were clean. The beach was not clean and very hard to walk on, very rocky."

    "Made my first visit to Ottawa Lake on a mid-March weekend. The facilities were still under their winter setup (only vault toilet, no shower available, pay in an envelope)."

    2. Milton-Madison SE KOA

    18 Reviews
    Edgerton, WI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 868-4141

    "No enclosed dog park but plenty of area to walk your dog!"

    "Driving around, I really don't think there's a bad spot here. The staff is fantastic, friendly, and accommodating- as are the seasonal campers.

    We'll be back again...and again... and again!"

    3. Kettle Moraine South Camping — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    12 Reviews
    Eagle, WI
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 594-6220

    "Red Trail, Paradise Trail,Rice Lake are all great hikes. Great views of Lake Ottawa. The close by town of Oconomowoc has a nice place to eat, Burkes Lakeside."

    "Whether you're in a tent or in a camper you can find just as much comfort as you're looking for. there's a lake with a swimming area if that's what you're looking for, not to mention a dock with great"

    4. Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    22 Reviews
    North Prairie, WI
    17 miles
    +1 (262) 626-2116

    $18 - $30 / night

    "It is close to the Ice Age trail and the Scuppernong trail, and a short drive from Ottawa LakeNearby is some excellent mountain biking in hilly terrain at the Emma Carlin and John Muir trails. "

    "Pinewoods Campground is part of the southern Kettle Morraine State Forest in Wisconsin. The campground is secluded and most sites are private and shaded."

    5. Snug Harbor Inn Campground on Turtle Lake

    6 Reviews
    Delavan, WI
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 883-6999

    $15 - $45 / night

    "I did not stay here, but I spend some time walking through to get a feel for the place."

    "Wanted someplace close to home. Familiar with the Delavan area so was excited to find Snug Harbor. Set up went well, didn’t blow anything up! Yea! Staff was great, helped me back in."

    6. Scenic Ridge Campground

    7 Reviews
    Whitewater, WI
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 883-2920

    "You are in walking distance of the lake with boat ramp, kayaking and water inflatables. I loved it! Also, there is a store with full kitchen."

    8. Hickory Hills Campground

    12 Reviews
    Edgerton, WI
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 884-6327

    $42 / night

    "Our site was nicely wooded and a decent size, but everyone was pretty close to each other. When we were there, the women's shower was freezing and the men's was almost uncomfortably hot."

    "Hidden from site, the entire grounds are completely surrounded by a very thick wall of tall trees that barricades this place from most of civilization."

    9. Pilgrims Campground

    6 Reviews
    Fort Atkinson, WI
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (920) 563-8122

    "We were located on the end of the row and had lots of grass to enjoy. Owner was very friendly and helpful"

    10. Kettle Moraine Southern Unit — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    10 Reviews
    North Prairie, WI
    16 miles
    Website

    $28 / night

    "We camped at the Whitewater Lake Campground and it was well maintained. It was very quiet and peaceful."

    "You can walk over to an area that has hiking trails right out of the campsite. State park mountain biking trails are also close by, but you would need to drive to them."

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Recent Reviews near Whitewater, WI

758 Reviews of 97 Whitewater Campgrounds


  • Tim H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Naga-Waukee Park by Waukesha County Parks

    Nagawaukee County Park

    Site was clean and flat enough for my two person tent. Restrooms were porta-johns, but very clean. Plenty of free wood available for the fire.

  • Jessica T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Pilgrims Campground

    Nice enough grounds, poorly maintained electric panels

    To be honest I thought this stay was going to be easy and the first couple days were. They didn’t have full hook up sites and we have a 50 amp rig… we used a dogbone to connect to the 30 amp site. It was fine for a bit but then we started to get surges. Our EMS protected the rig but ultimately we couldn’t use the power. Even with only running the fridge it continued to trip. We tried the one next to us and it gave us the reverse polarity code so we decided it would be best to just leave the following day. The grounds are well maintained and the owners are friendly… they mentioned some of their 30 amp sites will get converted to 50 next year so hopefully that helps but definitely frustrating to need to book another site and forfeit money on this one.

  • Mark D.
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    We had such an enjoyable time at Ottawa Lake Campground.

    Escape the everyday and immerse yourself in nature at Ottawa Lake Campground. Nestled in the heart of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, this welcoming retreat offers lakeside fun, scenic hiking trails, the quiet beauty of a true Northwoods experience, all without a long drive.

    We have visited the Campground 5 times this year already, we love hiking all the trails in the Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.

    https://youtu.be/xl4uAtNWclM

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Pettits Lakeview Campground & Bar

    Family Friendly Lakeside Campground

    Pettit’s Lakeview Campground & Bar is the kind of place where family camping meets lakeside fun with a lively twist, sitting right on Lake Koshkonong with beautiful sunset views and easy boat access. My kids loved the playground while the adults enjoyed Friday fish fries, live music and the laid-back bar that doubles as a social hub, creating a strong community vibe with theme weekends and plenty of laughter. That said, it’s definitely more “festival” than “quiet forest” with sites being closing together, weekends can get noisy with karaoke and bar traffic, and shade is limited, so if you’re looking for peace and birdwatching, this isn’t it, but for families who don’t mind a little bustle, it’s a fun and memorable spot.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Pilgrims Campground

    Simple Campground

    With a small family to mind, while out enjoying a short weekend of camping, I appreciated Pilgrim’s Campground in Wisconsin for its quiet, family-oriented atmosphere that made our stay both relaxing and memorable. The sites were clean, level and easy to settle into, with plenty of shade and enough space for the kids to play safely nearby. While the campground doesn’t have the flashy resort-style amenities of some bigger parks, it makes up for it with well-kept facilities, a friendly, welcoming staff, and a slower pace that let us truly enjoy time together outdoors. My kids loved riding their bikes around the loops, roasting marshmallows at night and spotting wildlife along the nature trails, while I valued the sense of safety and the community feel among fellow campers. Conveniently located near local attractions yet peaceful enough to feel tucked away, Pilgrim’s offered the perfect balance of simplicity, comfort, and wholesome family camping.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Milton-Madison SE KOA

    KOA Close to Lake Koshkonong

    With 2 kids to mind, I found the Milton-Madison SE KOA to be one of the most family-friendly campgrounds we’ve visited, with something for everyone to enjoy. With over 200 sites, the campground is clearly geared toward RVs and fifth wheels, but it also offers a few cabins and tent sites, giving families different ways to stay. The kids were thrilled with the heated pool that even has a waterfall, the playgrounds, gaga ball, arcade, and weekend rides like the barrel train and hayrack.  In short, there was always something to keep them entertained while I could actually relax. I appreciated the practical touches like clean restrooms and showers, laundry facilities, a well-stocked market and a clubhouse with plenty of space to gather. My husband loved that Lake Koshkonong was right nearby for fishing and paddling, and we all enjoyed exploring Milton’s small-town restaurants with Mary’s Café for biscuits and gravy that was a huge hit and Frederick’s Supper Club, both of which made for a special night out. The Riggio family, who run the campground, were some of the kindest hosts we’ve met, which made the whole experience feel extra welcoming. While I do think the tent sites and cabins are a bit pricey for what you get, the number of activities, amenities, and nearby conveniences made it worth it for the memories we created together. For families looking for a lively, activity-packed camping trip, this KOA is a great choice.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Lakeland Camping Resort

    Lakefront Fun

    As a mom, I found Lakeland RV Campground in Milton to be the kind of place where the whole family can truly unwind and have fun together. Set along Lake Koshkonong this place was bursting with energy and feels more like a summer resort than a traditional campground with over 270 full-hookup sites and cozy cabins for families who don’t have an RV. The kids had endless options to keep them busy from 2 swimming pools, a sandy beach, playgrounds, mini golf, sports courts, and even planned activities and themed weekends and I loved the convenience of the camp store, laundry, fitness center and clean facilities. In the evenings, we enjoyed gathering around the campfire under the stars, and during the day we ventured onto the lake for kayaking and fishing, which felt like a little adventure just steps from our site. It was also nice knowing that if we wanted a change of pace, Milton and Janesville offered small-town charm and great dining and Madison wasn’t far for a day trip. My mom tips? Book a site away from the pools if you want peace and quiet, treat yourself to dinner at Fredrick’s Supper Club, sneak out early for a serene paddle on the lake, and don’t worry if you forgot gear as nearby shops have you covered. Lakeland made it easy for me to relax while my kids had a blast, and that combination is what makes it such a special family getaway.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Fort Atkinson

    Nostalgic Campground

    As a mom, I can honestly say that Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Fort Atkinson is one of those rare campgrounds where the kids are entertained from morning till night and parents can actually relax a little too. The whole place feels designed with families in mind: colorful playgrounds, themed weekends, wagon rides, character visits from Yogi and Boo Boo, and a pool with splash zones that keep little ones happy for hours. Our campsite was clean and level, with options for full hookups or cozy cabins if you’d rather skip the RV, and the bathhouses were spotless, which is something I always look for. What I appreciated most was the balance: the kids could run from the jumping pillow to the mini golf course to the craft barn without ever getting bored, while my husband and I enjoyed sitting by the campfire or joining in on family activities like outdoor 'movies under the stars.' The campground store was well-stocked with snacks, s’mores supplies, and those 'oops, we forgot it' supplies, which saved us more than once. And while there’s plenty to do onsite, being near Lake Koshkonong and Fort Atkinson means you can easily slip away for a day of fishing, boating, or exploring. For me, the best part was watching my kids’ faces light up during the evening hayride, sticky with marshmallow, waving at Yogi like he was a celebrity that felt like the kind of wholesome, memory-making trip I hope they’ll look back on for years.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    Close to "home" beautiful sites

    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.


Guide to Whitewater

Camping spots near Whitewater, Wisconsin are situated within the glacially-formed Kettle Moraine region, characterized by unique geological features including kettles, moraines, and drumlins created during the last ice age. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 800-900 feet above sea level with summer temperatures typically ranging from 55°F to 85°F. Winter camping options remain available at select locations where temperatures can drop well below freezing.

What to do

Swim in natural spring waters: At Ottawa Lake Campground, visitors can experience both lake swimming and nearby natural springs. "Beautiful campground (Ottawa Lake campsites) Great Lake, hiking to see the natural springs which is the coolest!! Drank fresh spring water!" reports Autumn S. The campground offers direct access to Scuppernong Springs, a 2-mile hike that's popular with families.

Explore Ice Age Trail segments: The Kettle Moraine State Forest provides multiple access points to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. "We hiked and swim and sat on the dock. It's the perfect place to bring friends for a weekend or week away," shares Kelsey H. about Kettle Moraine South Camping. Trail segments vary in difficulty, with observation points offering views of the distinctive glacial landscape.

Fish in local lakes: Several campgrounds offer fishing opportunities without needing to travel. "They provide you direct access to Rice Lake, where you'll catch no shortage of blue gills, small and large mouthed bass, bullheads and crappie," notes Stuart K. about Hickory Hills Campground. Most lakes in the area require a Wisconsin fishing license, available online or at local bait shops for $10 (daily) to $20 (annual) for residents.

What campers like

Winter camping options: Unlike many Wisconsin campgrounds that close seasonally, several Whitewater area campgrounds remain open year-round. "No showers in winter but awesome," writes David H. about Ottawa Lake Campground. Winter campers should prepare for limited facilities and potentially challenging road conditions, but enjoy significantly fewer crowds.

Tiered camping with lake views: At Snug Harbor Inn Campground, the site layout maximizes water views. "Great three tiered camping spot. Full hookup, and great views," states Alix M. The property design allows campers at various elevations to enjoy lake views rather than just waterfront sites, with James W. adding, "Like the design of 3 levels so everyone gets a view."

Quiet camping loops: Several campgrounds offer designated quiet areas for campers seeking more peaceful experiences. "We liked this site because it was on the 'quiet loop.' No radios or pets allowed," shares Wendy Z. about her stay at Kettle Moraine Southern Unit. These specialized loops typically enforce 24-hour quiet hours and often restrict pets, providing a different experience than standard camping areas.

What you should know

Highway noise impacts site selection: Campers should consider road proximity when choosing sites. "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," explains Linda N. about Ottawa Lake Campground. Requesting sites further from highways can significantly improve the experience.

Seasonal camper concentrations: Many campgrounds near Whitewater have high percentages of seasonal residents. "This campground had a lot of seasonal campers," notes Steven P. about Scenic Ridge Campground. At Milton-Madison SE KOA, Josh F. observed, "There are lots of things to do here, but tent camping is not one of them." Understanding the campground's seasonal-to-transient ratio helps set appropriate expectations.

Variable shower facilities: Bathroom and shower conditions vary widely across campgrounds. "The bathrooms are a little rustic for my taste," notes Cheryl W. about Scenic Ridge Campground. At Pinewoods, Kendal R. reports, "The bathrooms were gross but the camp host was absolutely amazing." Bringing shower shoes and checking recent reviews about facility conditions can prevent surprises.

Tips for camping with families

Look for family activity schedules: Hickory Hills Campground offers organized weekend activities throughout summer. "So many cool activities definitely kid orientated! Activities every weekend," writes Heather H., who appreciated options like "build your own donut and sundaes" plus water features. Campgrounds typically post activity schedules online or at camp stores.

Consider beach and pool options: Water access significantly enhances family camping experiences. "The kids were thrilled with the heated pool that even has a waterfall, the playgrounds, gaga ball, arcade, and weekend rides like the barrel train and hayrack," Maria Mercedes M. shares about her stay at Milton-Madison SE KOA. Most waterfront campgrounds charge additional fees for water equipment rentals.

Reserve early for holiday weekends: Holiday periods fill quickly at campgrounds near Whitewater. "You can camp year around in this campground. Most recent 2 times were winter camping. No rowdies in winter," notes Tim H. about Ottawa Lake Campground. Reservations for summer holiday weekends should be made 6-9 months in advance for best site selection.

Tips from RVers

Check site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds feature sloped terrain requiring significant leveling. "Our site was downhill so that presented quite the challenge to level out," Steven P. explains about Scenic Ridge Campground. Bringing extra leveling blocks is recommended, as is requesting information about site slope when making reservations.

Electrical system reliability varies: At Pilgrims Campground, Jessica T. experienced electrical issues: "We started to get surges. Our EMS protected the rig but ultimately we couldn't use the power. Even with only running the fridge it continued to trip." Using surge protectors is essential, particularly at older campgrounds with aging infrastructure.

Verify full hookup availability: Water and sewer connections aren't universal at all RV sites. "It was fine for a bit but then we started to get surges," Jessica T. continues about Pilgrims Campground. "They didn't have full hook up sites and we have a 50 amp rig." Confirming exact hookup specifications before booking prevents compatibility problems during your stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

What campgrounds are available near Whitewater, Wisconsin?

Several campgrounds are available near Whitewater, Wisconsin. Scenic Ridge Campground is located closest to Whitewater and offers both drive-in and boat-in access with water and toilet facilities. Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit is also nearby, featuring the popular Pinewoods Campground with sites suitable for tents and trailers in a beautiful pine forest setting. Other options within driving distance include Pilgrims Campground near Fort Atkinson and several state parks within a 30-45 minute drive.

What amenities does Whitewater Lake Campground offer?

At The Playful Goose Campground near Whitewater, you'll find spacious lots backing up to forested areas, creating a peaceful setting where wildlife sightings are common. The campground features seasonal sites and beautiful natural surroundings. For additional options with more amenities, Hickory Hills Campground is another nearby choice. Many campgrounds in the Whitewater area offer standard amenities like potable water, restroom facilities, and reservable sites, though specific offerings vary by location.

What is the best time of year to go camping in Whitewater, Wisconsin?

The best time for camping near Whitewater is late spring through early fall (May-September). Summer offers warm days ideal for water activities, but also brings higher humidity and more mosquitoes. Big Foot Beach State Park Campground is particularly popular during summer months for its recreational opportunities, though the beach can get crowded. For a more pleasant experience with fewer crowds and insects, consider camping in early fall when New Glarus State Park Campground showcases beautiful foliage in the southern Wisconsin countryside with comfortable temperatures and less humidity.