Ottawa Lake Amphitheater

For families and outdoor enthusiasts across Wisconsin, finding that perfect camping spot often feels like striking gold. Here in the Badger State, we know our state parks offer incredible experiences, and Ottawa Lake Campground in Dousman, WI, is quickly becoming a standout favorite. Nestled within the picturesque Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit, this campground truly embodies what many Wisconsinites seek in a natural escape: a beautiful setting, excellent amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere that feels both serene and adventurous.

Many campers find Ottawa Lake to be a cut above. As one family shared, "Ottawa Lake is quickly becoming a favorite destination for our family. It started with one of our first camping experiences with our new-to-us vintage motorhome. We loved our stay here, and assumed that all state park campgrounds had the same great set-up. Since then, we have found this not to be true. Ottawa Lake has a huge, sandy beach with almost NO rocks. It's shallow enough in the whole swimming area that you can relax and let your kids have fun. There are plenty of picnic tables at and near the beach. You can still find a spot when it gets crowded, and there are even more tables off to the side if you want more privacy." This glowing review highlights several key attractions, particularly the fantastic beach which is ideal for children and families, a rarity in many lake campgrounds.

The campsites themselves are another major draw. Unlike some state parks where sites can feel exposed, Ottawa Lake prioritizes privacy. "Another great thing about Ottawa Lake campground is the privacy of the sites. Many of the other state park camp grounds we've been to are wide open, but Ottawa Lake has dense trees and undergrowth separating most of their sites." This makes for a more secluded and peaceful experience, even when the campground is bustling.

For those new to camping, or even seasoned veterans who appreciate comfort, the amenities are a huge plus. "Clean bathrooms, hot showers, freshwater pumps round out the amenities." Another first-time camper couple enthusiastically stated, "It's our first camping out! And we will be back again. It seems that the campground is great for beginner campers without kids. Being first-time campers, we sure appreciated the flush toilet, hot shower and water fountain located near our tent. At $17 per night, we were surprised to see it so well maintained." This sentiment underscores the value and quality of the facilities, making it an excellent entry point for new campers or a comfortable retreat for anyone.

While the name "Ottawa Lake Amphitheater" might suggest a primary focus on performances, the amphitheater is actually a small, added feature within the larger Ottawa Lake Campground and Recreation Area. As one review noted, "a small amphitheater (who knew how much fun the kids would find that!?)" It serves as a nice bonus, possibly for ranger presentations or informal play, rather than a central event venue. The campground's true essence lies in its beautiful lake, well-maintained sites, and access to the vast Kettle Moraine State Forest. It truly is a gem for Wisconsin families and campers alike.

Location and Accessibility

Ottawa Lake Campground is ideally situated at S59 W36630, County Rd ZZ, Dousman, WI 53118, USA. This address places it squarely within the Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit, a geographically significant and highly popular recreation area in southeastern Wisconsin. The Kettle Moraine is a unique landscape, a testament to glacial activity, featuring rolling hills, forests, prairies, and numerous lakes, all easily accessible to a large portion of Wisconsin's population.

The accessibility of Ottawa Lake Campground is one of its strongest attributes for local users. Dousman is located approximately 35-40 miles west of Milwaukee and about 45 miles southeast of Madison. This proximity to two of Wisconsin's largest metropolitan areas makes Ottawa Lake an incredibly convenient destination for weekend getaways, family vacations, or even spontaneous overnight trips. The drive is relatively short and scenic, typically involving major interstates (like I-94 or I-43) connecting to well-maintained state and county roads, such as County Road ZZ, which leads directly to the campground entrance.

Being within the Kettle Moraine State Forest means campers have immediate access to a vast network of hiking, biking, and even cross-country skiing trails in the winter. The location also benefits from being a short drive to nearby towns like Dousman, Eagle, or Palmyra, which offer essential services such as grocery stores, gas stations, and local dining options. This blend of natural seclusion and urban convenience ensures that campers can enjoy the tranquility of the forest without being too far from necessary supplies. Its year-round availability (as the only year-round campground in the Kettle Moraine Southern Unit) further enhances its accessibility, allowing Wisconsinites to enjoy outdoor adventures in all seasons.

Services Offered

Ottawa Lake Campground within the Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit offers a comprehensive range of services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for all visitors, from novice campers to seasoned RVers.

• Campsites with Amenities: The campground boasts 100 sites, including 65 electrical sites (some sources state 49 electrical sites, so check current DNR info). All sites typically include a picnic table and a fire pit/ring. Many sites are "wooded" and offer "dense trees and undergrowth separating most of their sites," providing excellent privacy.

• Modern Restroom Facilities: A significant highlight for campers is the availability of "clean bathrooms" with "flush toilets" and "hot showers." There are two shower buildings and a vault toilet building. This comfort is particularly appreciated by beginner campers and families.

• Freshwater Access: "Freshwater pumps" or "water fountains" are located near campsites, ensuring easy access to potable water.

• Sanitary Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is provided for registered campers, along with a recycling/garbage station, facilitating responsible waste disposal for RVs.

• Camp Host Services: A host site is typically located in the middle of the campground, where campers can purchase essentials like "ice and firewood." Note that "outside firewood is not allowed due to state park regulation" to prevent the spread of pests.

• Year-Round Camping: Ottawa Lake Campground is unique as the "only year-round campground in the Kettle Moraine Southern Unit." While amenities like flush toilets and showers may be seasonal, a limited number of sites are plowed in winter, with water available from a spigot and a winter vault toilet.

• Reservations: Camping reservations are required and can be made up to 11 months in advance through the Wisconsin DNR online reservation system or by phone.

• Vehicle Admission Sticker: A Wisconsin state park vehicle admission sticker is required for entry and can be purchased online or at the park. There is also an additional daily entrance fee for vehicles without an annual pass.

These services collectively contribute to Ottawa Lake Campground being a highly desirable and well-equipped destination for a wide range of campers.

Features / Highlights

Ottawa Lake Campground offers a wealth of features and highlights that make it a standout destination for campers in Wisconsin. These elements contribute to its growing popularity and make it a highly recommended choice:

• Exceptional Sandy Beach: A major draw is the "huge, sandy beach with almost NO rocks." This shallow, safe swimming area is perfect for families with kids, offering ample space and plenty of picnic tables both on and near the beach for relaxation and enjoyment.

• Private and Spacious Campsites: Unlike many state park campgrounds, Ottawa Lake boasts "dense trees and undergrowth separating most of their sites," ensuring a high degree of privacy. Sites are also noted as "huge" and "spacious," providing plenty of room for campers to spread out.

• Modern and Clean Facilities: Campers consistently praise the "clean bathrooms, hot showers, freshwater pumps." This comfort level, including flush toilets and reliable hot water, is a significant advantage, especially for beginner campers or families.

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With a "small playground" near the beach and the amphitheater that "kids would find fun," the campground is well-suited for families. The shallow, sandy beach further enhances its appeal for children's activities.

• Access to Kettle Moraine State Forest Trails: The campground serves as a perfect base for exploring the extensive trail system of the Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit. Nearby hiking trails, including parts of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail and Scuppernong Trails, offer diverse outdoor adventures.

• Year-Round Camping Option: As the only year-round campground in the Kettle Moraine Southern Unit, Ottawa Lake provides unique opportunities for cold-weather camping, including snowmobiling, ice fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, extending its appeal beyond the traditional camping season.

• Fishing Opportunities: The lake itself is a good spot for fishing, with a pier available. Reviewers mention catching "fish off the pier," adding another recreational option.

• Well-Maintained Grounds and Friendly Staff: Overall, the campground is described as "very well maintained," and park staff are often noted for being "nice" and helpful, contributing to a positive visitor experience.

These highlights collectively make Ottawa Lake Campground a versatile and highly appealing choice for a wide range of Wisconsin campers, from those seeking a relaxing beach day to avid outdoor adventurers.

Contact Information

To plan your visit, make reservations, or inquire about specific details regarding Ottawa Lake Campground in Dousman, WI, you will primarily interact with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), as it is part of the Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit.

Address:

S59 W36630, County Rd ZZ, Dousman, WI 53118, USA

Phone Numbers:

For general inquiries or information regarding Ottawa Lake Campground, you can use the following numbers:

(262) 594-6220

Mobile Phone: +1 262-594-6220

For campsite reservations, the most common and recommended method is through the Wisconsin State Parks Reservation System. You can typically reserve online or by calling their central reservation line:

Toll-Free Reservation Line: 1-888-947-2757

It is highly advisable to make reservations well in advance, especially for popular weekends and during peak season, as Ottawa Lake Campground is a highly sought-after destination. You can find more detailed information, check current availability, and make reservations directly on the Wisconsin DNR's official website for the Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit. This will also provide the most up-to-date information on fees, park regulations (like the firewood policy), and any seasonal changes to amenities.

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

For residents across Wisconsin, Ottawa Lake Campground in Dousman truly stands out as an exceptionally suitable and appealing choice for an outdoor escape, perfectly aligning with local preferences for convenient access to natural beauty, quality amenities, and diverse recreational opportunities.

Its primary appeal for Wisconsinites lies in its superb location. Offering that coveted "up north" feel without the lengthy drive, it's easily accessible from Milwaukee, Madison, and other major population centers. This proximity means less time spent traveling and more time enjoying the outdoors, making it ideal for everything from spontaneous weekend trips to extended family vacations. The convenience of being able to quickly access such a pristine natural environment is a significant draw for busy local families.

The quality of the camping experience at Ottawa Lake is consistently praised. The "huge, sandy beach with almost NO rocks" provides an unparalleled lakeside experience for families, offering a safe and enjoyable swimming area that is a rare find in many Wisconsin campgrounds. Coupled with the "private" and "spacious" campsites, which feature "dense trees and undergrowth" for seclusion, campers can truly relax and unwind. This level of comfort and natural immersion is highly valued by those seeking a genuine retreat.

Furthermore, the modern amenities, including "clean bathrooms, hot showers, and freshwater pumps," make camping accessible and comfortable for all skill levels, from first-time campers to seasoned RVers. This attention to detail ensures a pleasant stay, allowing more people to enjoy Wisconsin's outdoors without sacrificing essential comforts.

Beyond the campground itself, its location within the Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit provides immediate access to miles of hiking, biking, and winter recreation trails. This allows locals to seamlessly transition from their campsite to exploring the unique glacial landscape, catering to the active lifestyle that is a hallmark of many Wisconsinites.

In essence, Ottawa Lake Campground offers the perfect blend of accessibility, natural beauty, comfort, and recreation. It’s a place where families can create lasting memories, beginners can comfortably embrace camping, and experienced outdoor enthusiasts can find both relaxation and adventure, all within easy reach for anyone living in Wisconsin.

Ottawa Lake Amphitheater

S59 W36630, County Rd ZZ, Dousman, WI 53118, USA