South Kettle Moraine Camping & Hiking WI
Details
We’re heading back to one of our absolute favorite spots: Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit 🌿
Spanning over 22,000 acres, this incredible landscape is shaped by glaciers and filled with rolling hills, kettles, lakes, prairie restorations, pine woods, and hardwood forests. It’s the perfect setting to kick off the season with a mix of adventure, relaxation, and great company.
Even better—it's an easy escape:
- ~1 hour 45 minutes from O’Hare (109 miles)
- ~35 minutes west of Milwaukee
🏕️ Camping Details
We’ll be staying at the Pinewoods Group Campground (primitive camping – no electricity).
What to expect:
- Vault toilets on-site
- Shower house with flush toilets nearby
- Spacious group campsite surrounded by nature
The exact site number will be shared closer to the event.
🥾 What We’ll Be Doing
Kettle Moraine is a hiker’s paradise, offering miles of scenic trails through forests and prairies. Options include:
- Scuppernong Trails
- Emma Carlin Trails
- John Muir Trails
- Nordic Trails
- And portions of the iconic Ice Age National Scenic Trail
Trail info: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/kms/recreation/hiking
📅 Optional Plan
- Friday: Arrivals & camp setup, Relaxed evening + bonfire hang (you are welcome to cook on the grill)
- Saturday Morning: Hike the Ice Age Trail to Bald Bluff Overlook (must-see views!
- Saturday Afternoon: Guided Frog Hike (https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/events/118646)
- Saturday Evening: Group potluck dinner and campfire hang
- Sunday: Short hike or nature walk & Pack up & head out early afternoon
Weather backup:
- Indoor fun at Maple Way Bowl 🎳(https://maplewaybowl.com/)
💵 Cost
$35 per person includes:
- 2 nights camping
- Firewood for the weekend
- Charcoal for grilling
Payment secures your spot.
- Pay via PayPal / Zelle / Venmo
- Send to: mcdzica AT gmail.com
🚗 Park Admission
A Wisconsin State Park vehicle sticker is required for each car.
Can be purchased:
- Online: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/admission
- Or at the park entrance (it's safer to buy it online in advance)
- Recommended 1-year sticker, as we will be doing a lot of camping in Wisconsin this year
📌 Final Notes
- A detailed agenda will be shared with confirmed participants
- Feel free to post questions in the comments or message me directly
- All experience levels welcome—this trip is about enjoying nature and good company
Whether you're here for the hikes, the campfire conversations, or just a peaceful weekend outdoors, this is the perfect way to start the season.
Happy Camping!