Hickory Woods Group Campground

Nestled within the breathtaking Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit, Hickory Woods Group Campground in Whitewater, Wisconsin, stands as an exceptional destination for larger gatherings looking to immerse themselves in nature. This isn't your average individual campsite; Hickory Woods is specifically designed to accommodate groups, offering spacious and secluded sites that provide the perfect backdrop for memorable outdoor experiences. Whether you're planning a family reunion, a scout troop outing, a church retreat, or a friends' getaway, this campground provides the infrastructure and natural beauty to make your event a success. Known for its rustic charm and integration with the surrounding forest, Hickory Woods provides a more primitive camping experience, encouraging visitors to truly connect with the environment. While it offers essential amenities for comfort, it retains that desirable "away-from-it-all" feeling that many Wisconsinites cherish. Its dedicated group sites mean you'll have ample space for tents, vehicles, and communal activities, ensuring both convenience and privacy for your party. Operating from mid-May through mid-October, Hickory Woods Group Campground is a popular choice for those looking to explore the extensive trail systems, enjoy peaceful forest settings, and create lasting memories with their group.

Hickory Woods Group Campground is located in Whitewater, WI 53190, specifically within the expansive Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit. The exact address, N8320 Hi Lo Rd, Whitewater, WI 53190, positions it conveniently for many residents across Wisconsin, especially those in the southeastern part of the state, including the Milwaukee and Madison metropolitan areas. The Kettle Moraine State Forest itself is a well-known natural gem, crisscrossed by scenic drives and easily accessible via Wisconsin's well-maintained highway system. This means that while you'll feel deeply immersed in nature at Hickory Woods, getting there is a straightforward journey. The campground's location within a state forest also means proximity to a vast network of hiking, biking, and even horse trails, providing endless opportunities for exploration right from your campsite. Despite its secluded feel, essential services and the charming town of Whitewater are a relatively short drive away, offering convenience for any last-minute supplies or emergencies. The strategic placement of Hickory Woods offers the best of both worlds: a serene, natural retreat that is still within comfortable driving distance for local groups seeking an authentic Wisconsin outdoor adventure.

• Group Campsites: Specifically designed to accommodate larger parties. Sites J and K can host up to 20 people and 10 vehicles each, while sites P and R are even larger, accommodating up to 40 people and 20 vehicles.
• Pit/Vault Toilets: Basic, non-flush restroom facilities are available on-site, maintaining the rustic camping experience.
• Pump Water: Access to potable water is provided, essential for drinking, cooking, and basic hygiene.
• Fire Rings: Each group site is equipped with a designated fire ring, perfect for campfires, cooking, and evening gatherings.
• Picnic Tables: Sites include picnic tables for comfortable outdoor dining and food preparation.
• Gravel Tent Pads: To minimize impact on the environment and provide a stable base, tents are restricted to gravel pads.
• Sanitary Dump Station: Located nearby at Whitewater Lake Campground, this facility is available for RV campers within the larger Kettle Moraine State Forest system.
• Recycling/Garbage Station: Promoting responsible waste management, facilities are available for campers.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase at the Whitewater Lake contact station and from camp hosts, adhering to "Don't Move Firewood" guidelines to prevent the spread of pests.
• Dog-Friendly: Dogs are welcome at the campground, provided they are kept on a leash, allowing furry friends to join the adventure.

• Dedicated Group Camping: Unlike individual sites, Hickory Woods is specifically designed for groups, offering ample space and facilities that cater to larger gatherings. This specialization ensures a more comfortable and accommodating experience for your entire party.
• Spacious Sites: The generous size of each group site (accommodating up to 20 or 40 people) allows for comfortable tent setups, designated activity areas, and a sense of privacy even within a large group.
• Secluded Forest Setting: Tucked within the Kettle Moraine State Forest, the campground provides a deeply immersive natural environment, offering a true escape from urban noise and light pollution. It's ideal for those seeking tranquility and wildlife observation.
• Access to Kettle Moraine State Forest Amenities: While Hickory Woods itself is primitive, campers have access to broader forest amenities. This includes access to the extensive Ice Age National Scenic Trail, other hiking and biking trails (like the John Muir and Emma Carlin trail systems), and various lakes (Whitewater Lake, Ottawa Lake) for fishing, swimming, or boating, though some facilities like showers might require a short drive to other campgrounds within the forest (e.g., Pinewoods or Ottawa Lake).
• Rustic Experience with Essentials: The campground strikes a balance, offering basic necessities like water and pit toilets while maintaining a primitive feel. This is perfect for groups who want an authentic camping experience without being completely without fundamental conveniences.
• Perfect for Events and Reunions: The large, accommodating sites make Hickory Woods an excellent choice for family reunions, scout jamborees, youth group trips, or any large social gathering looking for an outdoor setting.
• Seasonal Operation: Open from mid-May through mid-October, it aligns with prime Wisconsin camping season, allowing groups to enjoy the best of spring, summer, and fall foliage.
• Required Reservations: The necessity of reservations, especially during peak season, ensures organized group management and better planning for visitors, reducing overcrowding.

For reservations and detailed information regarding Hickory Woods Group Campground, it is managed as part of the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Please note that booking well in advance, especially for group sites during peak season, is highly recommended.

Address: N8320 Hi Lo Rd, Whitewater, WI 53190, USA

Phone for Information: (262) 594-6200 (Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit Headquarters)

Reservations by Phone: (888) 947-2757 or (888) WIPARKS (Wisconsin State Parks Reservation System)

Website: Reservations can typically be made via the Wisconsin DNR State Parks website, searching for Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit and then selecting Hickory Woods Group Campground.

It is always advisable to confirm current operating hours, specific site availability, and any updated regulations directly with the Wisconsin DNR or the campground office before your visit.

Hickory Woods Group Campground stands as an unparalleled resource for Wisconsin locals seeking a memorable and convenient group camping experience. Its strategic location within the magnificent Kettle Moraine State Forest provides a natural playground right in our backyard, easily accessible from various parts of the state. What makes it particularly suitable for Wisconsinites is its focus on group accommodations, offering ample space and essential amenities that cater specifically to larger parties. This means less logistical headache and more quality time spent together in nature. Whether you're gathering family, friends, or a community organization, the spacious sites allow for comfort and privacy, fostering a truly communal atmosphere. The primitive nature of the campground encourages a genuine connection with Wisconsin's beautiful outdoors, providing a refreshing escape from daily routines. Moreover, its proximity to the vast trail networks and lakes of the Kettle Moraine State Forest means endless opportunities for hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and water activities. For those in Wisconsin looking to create lasting memories with a large group amidst the state's iconic natural landscapes, Hickory Woods Group Campground is not just a place to camp; it's a destination where collective outdoor adventures truly come to life.

Hickory Woods Group Campground

Whitewater, WI 53190, USA