KETTLE MORAINE STATE FOREST
The Kettle Moraine State Forest is a natural gem renowned for its picturesque landscapes and diverse ecosystems. This expansive forest covers over 50,000 acres and is characterized by its unique geological features, including kettles, moraines, and eskers, which were formed by glaciers thousands of years ago. Nature enthusiasts can explore miles of trails that wind through dense forests, scenic prairies, and glacial lakes while experiencing the beauty and tranquility of the area. With an abundance of recreational activities like hiking, biking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing, the Kettle Moraine State Forest offers a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an immersive experience in nature.
The Northern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest is located 45 minutes north of Milwaukee. Please see a Wisconsin State Highway Map and our Forest Map to determine if the suggested route will work best for you. See Current Conditions page for any detour information.
Visitors can explore and enjoy almost 30,000 acres of rolling hills, lakes, forests, and grasslands. The forest is internationally known for its unique glacial features. Pets welcome.
A great start to exploring the Forest is the Henry S. Reuss Ice Age Visitor Center. Purchase of state park and other merchandise from their gift shop help supports the Friends of the Kettle Moraine group.
The history of Kettle Moraine State Forest dates back to the last Ice Age, around 10,000 years ago. The landscape was shaped as glaciers advanced and retreated, leaving behind a unique topography characterized by kettles (hollows or depressions), moraines (ridges of glacial debris), and eskers (long, winding ridges). These glacial formations ultimately gave the forest its name.
For thousands of years after the glacial retreat, Native American tribes such as the Menominee, Fox, Potawatomi, and Ho-Chunk utilized the area for hunting, gathering, and trading. The forest provided an abundance of resources including game, freshwater, and plant materials.
European settlement in the area began in the 1830s, and agriculture became the dominant activity. However, the landscape was often challenging for farming due to the undulating terrain. As a result, many farmers struggled, and numerous abandoned farms can still be found within the forest today.
Recognizing the unique natural beauty and ecological significance of the area, efforts were made in the early 1900s to protect and preserve the land. In 1917, the Wisconsin Legislature established a committee to study the possibility of creating a state park system. As a result, the first parcel of the Kettle Moraine State Forest was purchased in 1934.
Under the leadership of famed conservationist Aldo Leopold, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a crucial role in developing the state forest during the 1930s. CCC workers built trails, bridges, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks, contributing to the recreational aspects of the forest that are still enjoyed today.
A Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission sticker is required on all motor vehicles stopping in state parks, forests and recreation areas, please visit the
VEHICLE ADMISSION STICKERS web page.
Day-UseHiking Trailyes
Swimming Beachyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
Mauthe Lake Campground:
Mauthe Lake Campground has 137 sites, including 49 electrical sites, one shower building and vault toilets. The beach area features playground equipment and concessions are available for food & camping supplies, watercraft rental, and firewood.
An authentic Native American plains tepee is available for rent. Campsites accessible to people with disabilities are available. A sanitary dump station and recycling/garbage station is provided for registered campers. Mauthe Lake is open for camping year round. Call for more information.
Reservations are recommended from mid-May thru September. Reservations must be made through Reserve America by calling (888) 947-2757.
Long Lake Campground:
Long Lake Campground provides 200 sites, flush toilets and showers. A private concessionaire provides firewood when the entrance station is open. Campsites accessible to people with disabilities are available. A sanitary dump station and recycling/garbage station is provided for registered campers. Long Lake Campground is open for camping the first weekend in May through mid-October. Call for more information.
Reservations are recommended from mid-May through September. Reservations must be made through Reserve America by calling (888) 947-2757.
Backpack shelters:
Backpack shelters are available year round for rustic camping along the 31.65 miles of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail and at the Zillmer Trail. Each site offers a roofed trail shelter, fire ring and pit toilet. Registered campers may gather dead and downed trees for firewood.
These sites are not accessible by vehicle. All camping equipment must be backpacked in and all refuse packed out. A camping permit is required and you must camp at a designated shelter campsite.
Only one reservation (camping party) is allowed per site per night. Reservations are limited to ten persons per site and are limited to one night per site. Another site may be reserved for a 2nd night at a 2nd site or a 3rd night at a 3rd site. You must call Reserve America at (888) 947-2757 to make backpack shelter reservations--backpack shelter reservations cannot be made on the web.
If you do not have a reservation, you must stop in at either the Forest Headquarters, Ice Age Visitor Center or Mauthe/Long Lake Entrance Stations (when open) to obtain a camping permit. Site availability is limited for spring and fall weekends--reservations are recommended. A reservation is required for stays longer than two nights along the trail.
Greenbush Group Campground:
The Greenbush Group Campground offers nine outdoor sites which accommodate groups up to 60 individuals. Only tent camping is allowed on the actual campsite. Sites are located near the Greenbush Trails where campers can enjoy hiking or off-road biking. An enclosed shelter building, handpumps and pit toilets are available nearby. Greenbush Group Campground is open for camping April through November. Call for more information.
Reservations are required. Reservations must be made through Reserve America by calling toll free (888) 947-2757. Discounted camping rates for resident chartered non-profit youth groups available.
New Prospect Horseriders' Campground:
New Prospect Horseriders' Campground is centrally located on the 33-mile Bridle Trail that winds through the state forest. Campers with horses may enjoy 12 family sites, 3 group sites, a picnic shelter, drinking water and pit toilets. A 48-stall horse shelter building is available for campers, and each site includes teether posts. Call for more information.
Reservations are recommended in spring and fall. Reservations must be made through Reserve America by calling (888) 947-2757.