The sound of highway traffic filters through the trees at Ottawa Lake Campground, where 40 sites spread across multiple loops within the Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit. Campers find a mix of electric and non-electric sites, with spacious layouts that provide privacy despite the campground's popularity. The facility operates year-round, though full amenities including hot showers are available seasonally.
Road noise varies significantly by location, with sites closest to County Road ZZ experiencing the most traffic sounds from motorcycles and trucks. Stephanie S. notes "you'll hear a symphony of crickets at night" but also road noise and occasional late-night disturbances. Sites 380, 382, 388, and 377 offer lake views, while interior locations provide better sound buffering from the highway.
The campground features flush toilets, hot showers, and laundry facilities, though some shower houses show age with peeling paint from humidity. Ottawa Lake's swimming beach draws crowds during summer days but often empties at sunset, providing solitude for evening visitors. The beach hosts occasional triathlons, temporarily restricting forest road access. RVs up to 100 feet can navigate the campground roads, with level sites and adequate utility hookups.
Trail access connects directly to the Ice Age Trail's Scuppernong section, while Scuppernong Springs Nature Trail lies across County Road ZZ. Winter cross-country ski trails convert to hiking paths during warmer months. The campground serves as a convenient base for exploring campgrounds around Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit, with several other camping areas within the forest system.
Reserve well in advance during peak season, as the campground fills quickly. Sites away from the highway perimeter offer the quietest camping experience.
Description
Ottawa Lake’s campground is located in the southern unit of Kettle Moraine State Forest, situated within half an hour’s drive from Milwaukee. Wisconsin campers of all ages love these grounds thanks to lakefront sites, modern facilities, and access to trails for hikers of every experience level. South Kettle Moraine is also home to over 160 miles of trails, including 87 miles open to horse use. Connect to the Ice Age Scenic Trail and various others within the John Muir and Emma Carlin trail systems.
Don’t forget to bring your rods when camping at Ottawa Lake! You’ll want to take full advantage of the boat dock and fishing pier where you can catch panfish, walleye, muskie, trout, bass, and northern pike – then you can grill them up at your campsite. Keep in mind, motorboats are not permitted on this small lake, which allows for peaceful wading and quieter camping all around.
Though Ottawa Lake is open year-round, it is recommended to check the weather in Dousman and Whitewater before planning trips in the colder months, as freezing temperatures and snow are common. Cold-weather campers who are willing to brave the Wisconsin winter will enjoy snowmobile trails, ice fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. No matter when you visit, Ottawa Lake will leave you satisfied.
Location
Public CampgroundOttawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit is located in Wisconsin
Coordinates
42.93743964 N
88.47497055 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/3/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 14 usersLast on 4/3/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 4/3/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/3/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 14 usersLast on 4/3/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 4/3/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Market
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly





















































