Greenbush Group Campground

For Wisconsin residents, the vast and varied landscape of the Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit stands as a premier destination for outdoor recreation. Nestled within this remarkable natural preserve is the Greenbush Group Campground, offering a unique opportunity for larger groups to immerse themselves in the heart of Wisconsin's glacial topography. This campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a launchpad for adventure, designed specifically to accommodate sizable gatherings, making it ideal for scout troops, family reunions, school trips, or any group looking to experience the Wisconsin wilderness together.

Greenbush Group Campground is distinguished by its focus on group-sized sites. As one reviewer noted, "There are 9 campsites, all for large groups (at least 3 tables & 1 fireplace for each site)." This setup ensures ample space for communal activities, dining, and relaxation, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie among campers. The commitment to providing facilities that cater to groups, such as multiple picnic tables and fireplaces per site, highlights its suitability for collective outdoor experiences. It's a place designed for creating shared memories under the Wisconsin sky.

The true allure of Greenbush lies in its direct connection to the extensive trail system of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Enthusiastic campers consistently rave about the accessibility to a diverse network of paths. One long-time visitor shared, "I really enjoy my camp outs at Greenbush. Site 9 is on the purple trail which gives you access to the entire Kettle Moraine. I think the picnic area is also on the trail, or site 3 it's as well." This immediate trail access means that whether your group is interested in a leisurely hike through the vibrant fall colors, an challenging mountain bike ride on groomed trails, or invigorating cross-country skiing in winter, the opportunities are endless. The famous Ice Age National Scenic Trail, which winds through 31 miles of the Northern Unit, is directly accessible from the Greenbush area, inviting exploration of Wisconsin's unique geological history.

Beyond the physical amenities and trails, the human element at Greenbush Group Campground also receives high praise. "Park Rangers are excellent and not stuck up and pretentious like Devil's lake. The park is very large and navigation can be challenging. Don't be hesitant to chat up a ranger anywhere in this park. Professional and very knowledgeable." This feedback is invaluable for any local planning a trip, as knowledgeable and friendly staff can significantly enhance the camping experience, especially in a large and diverse park. Their willingness to assist with navigation and provide insights into the area's activities adds a layer of support that makes planning and enjoying your stay much smoother, ensuring that your group's adventure is both safe and memorable.

Greenbush Group Campground is more than just a seasonal spot; it's a year-round hub for activity. Open for camping from April through November, and offering year-round recreational opportunities like hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding (at a separate nearby facility), snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing, it truly "puts you right in it all," as another reviewer perfectly encapsulated. This versatility makes it an ideal destination for Wisconsin locals seeking consistent outdoor engagement, no matter the season, allowing for continuous enjoyment of the state's natural beauty and recreational offerings.

Greenbush Group Campground is located in Glenbeulah, WI 53023, USA, specifically within the Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit. This prime location places it in one of Wisconsin's most geologically significant and recreationally rich areas. The campground sits amidst the unique glacial topography of the Kettle Moraine, characterized by rolling hills, kettles, and eskers, providing a stunning natural backdrop for any outdoor adventure. The forest itself covers approximately 30,000 acres, ensuring a vast and immersive natural experience.

Accessibility to the campground is straightforward, making it an easy drive for many Wisconsin residents. It is situated off Kettle Moraine Drive, which is readily accessible from State Highway 23. This central positioning within the Northern Unit means campers have immediate access to the forest's vast trail systems. The Greenbush Recreation Area, where the campground is located, is often noted as a starting point for many of these trails.

The most significant aspect of its location is the direct access it provides to the extensive Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit trails. The Greenbush Recreation Area itself boasts a diverse trail system with 13.5 miles of hiking trails and 9 miles of challenging mountain bike trails. Importantly, the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, a National Scenic Trail tracing Wisconsin's glacial history, directly passes through the Greenbush area. This allows campers to step right out of their site and onto this iconic long-distance footpath, offering opportunities for short day hikes or more extensive backpacking adventures through a landscape shaped by ancient glaciers.

Beyond the immediate forest, the campground's location in Sheboygan County places it within easy reach of charming local towns and additional attractions. As one review suggested, there's a "short drive to Elkhart Lake for the little bakery coffee shop downtown. Fun!!" Elkhart Lake, a well-known resort town, offers dining, unique shops, and vibrant events, including the famous Road America racetrack just a short drive away. Other nearby towns offer their own unique character and amenities, allowing campers to combine their wilderness experience with local culture and conveniences. For instance, Plymouth is also nearby with its own quaint downtown.

For those traveling from further afield in Wisconsin, Greenbush Group Campground is within a reasonable driving distance of major population centers like Milwaukee (about 51 miles), Green Bay (about 38 miles), and Madison, making it an ideal choice for weekend getaways or longer family and group trips. The combination of its deeply natural setting with convenient access to both wilderness trails and charming local communities makes Greenbush Group Campground exceptionally well-located for Wisconsin locals seeking both adventure and relaxation.

• Group Campsites: Offers 9 dedicated outdoor group sites that can accommodate large parties, specifically up to 40 individuals per site, providing ample space for tents and group activities.
• Tent Camping Only: These group sites are exclusively for tent camping, ensuring a rustic and traditional outdoor experience in harmony with the forest environment.
• Picnic Tables: Each group site is equipped with multiple picnic tables (at least 3 per site), facilitating communal dining and gathering.
• Fire Rings: Every site includes a designated fire ring, perfect for campfires, outdoor cooking, and evening storytelling.
• Enclosed Shelter Building: An enclosed shelter building is available nearby for communal use, offering protection from the elements during inclement weather or for group activities.
• Drinking Water: Potable water is accessible via hand pumps or water spigots located conveniently within the campground area.
• Vault Toilets: Pit toilets are available throughout the campground for basic sanitation needs. (Note: No showers are available directly at Greenbush Group Campground; campers wishing to shower may use facilities at the Mauthe Lake campground within the Northern Unit, a short drive away).
• Access to Trail Systems: Campers have direct, immediate access to the Greenbush Trails, which are perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and in winter, cross-country skiing.
• Ice Age National Scenic Trail Access: Convenient access to portions of the globally recognized Ice Age National Scenic Trail, allowing for unique geological exploration.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase from vending trailers at various campgrounds within the Northern Unit, often including near Greenbush, though campers are reminded to avoid moving firewood from outside the area due to pest concerns.
• Recycling/Garbage Stations: Provided for registered campers to encourage cleanliness and responsible waste disposal within the state forest.
• Reservations Required: All group sites at Greenbush require advance reservations, which can be made through the Wisconsin DNR system or Reserve America, ensuring a guaranteed spot for your group.

• Large Group Accommodation: Uniquely designed to comfortably host groups of up to 40 individuals per site, making it perfect for organized outings, family reunions, and educational trips.
• Rustic Tent Camping Focus: Provides a genuine tent camping experience, allowing groups to fully immerse themselves in the natural environment.
• Direct Trail Access: Offers unparalleled immediate access to the extensive Greenbush Trail System, providing miles of diverse terrain for hiking and mountain biking directly from the campground.
• Ice Age Trail Connection: A significant highlight is the direct connection to the renowned Ice Age National Scenic Trail, inviting campers to explore Wisconsin's unique glacial topography.
• Year-Round Activities Hub: Functions as a dynamic base for diverse outdoor activities across all four seasons, including hiking, mountain biking, snowmobiling (on designated trails), and cross-country skiing.
• Professional and Knowledgeable Park Rangers: Visitors consistently praise the friendly, professional, and highly knowledgeable DNR park rangers who are available to assist with navigation and provide insights into the forest.
• Beautiful and Wild Forest Setting: Nestled within the picturesque Kettle Moraine State Forest, offering a serene and wild environment with rolling hills, dense woodlands, and unique glacial features.
• Ample Site Amenities: Each group site is generously equipped with multiple picnic tables and a fire ring, facilitating comfortable group gatherings and outdoor cooking.
• Proximity to Local Attractions: Conveniently located a short drive from charming Wisconsin towns like Elkhart Lake (famous for Road America) and Plymouth, offering access to local amenities, dining, and cultural experiences.
• Quiet and Immersive Nature Experience: Provides a true wilderness feel, allowing groups to disconnect from urban distractions and fully immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature.
• Enclosed Shelter Building: Offers a communal enclosed shelter, providing a versatile space for group activities or shelter from the elements.

As Greenbush Group Campground is part of the Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit, which is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), specific "promotions or special offers" in the commercial sense are not typically provided by state campgrounds. Their fee structure is set by the state and focuses on accessibility for all residents, rather than promotional discounts.

However, for Wisconsin locals planning a trip to Greenbush Group Campground, there are a few considerations that could be seen as "benefits" or "value additions" when thinking about state-managed outdoor recreation:

• Wisconsin State Park System Pass: While not a direct discount on the campsite fee itself, purchasing an annual Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission sticker provides unlimited entry to all state parks, forests, and recreational areas, including the Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit, for the entire year. This can result in significant savings for locals who plan to visit multiple state properties or return to Greenbush multiple times throughout the year. It's an excellent value for frequent outdoor enthusiasts.
• Affordable Group Rates: The established rates for group campsites are generally designed to be highly cost-effective for large parties, especially when the per-person cost is considered. This inherent affordability is a form of value for groups seeking to camp together without the high costs often associated with private campgrounds or large accommodations.
• Year-Round Access and Activities: The campground's suitability for various activities across all four seasons (hiking, biking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing) offers continuous recreational value to locals throughout the entire year. This maximizes the utility of an annual state park pass and provides endless opportunities for outdoor engagement regardless of the weather.
• Educational and Interpretive Programs: While not a financial promotion, state parks often offer free or low-cost interpretive programs, nature hikes, and educational events. These programs can add significant educational and recreational value to a group camping trip, providing unique insights into Wisconsin's natural history and ecology.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on camping rates, reservation policies, and any specific state park passes or programs that might benefit your group's visit, it is always best to consult the official Wisconsin DNR website (dnr.wisconsin.gov) or contact their reservation line directly. They can provide comprehensive details on fees and how to make the most of your visit to Greenbush Group Campground.

Address: Glenbeulah, WI 53023, USA (within Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit)

Phone for Reservations (Wisconsin DNR): (888) 947-2757 (This is the general Reserve America number for Wisconsin State Parks and Forests.)

General Park Information: You can also typically find information and contact details for the Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit headquarters on the Wisconsin DNR website. The local phone for the Northern Unit is (262) 626-2116.

For Wisconsin residents, Greenbush Group Campground in the Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for a multitude of reasons. First and foremost, its design for large groups makes it an ideal setting for collective experiences – whether it's a family reunion, a scout camp, a school outdoor education trip, or a gathering of friends. The generous spacing of sites and dedicated amenities like multiple picnic tables and fire rings per site foster a comfortable and communal atmosphere that is perfect for shared memories in the Wisconsin outdoors. This focus on group accommodation directly addresses a common need for larger parties seeking an outdoor retreat.

The unparalleled access to the extensive trail system is a major draw for active locals. With immediate connections to the Greenbush hiking and mountain biking trails, as well as the iconic Ice Age National Scenic Trail, residents have endless opportunities to explore Wisconsin's unique glacial landscape on foot or by bike. This rich network of trails, combined with options for horseback riding and snowmobiling, ensures that the campground serves as a vibrant outdoor hub year-round, catering to a diverse range of recreational interests that are deeply ingrained in Wisconsin culture. It's a place where every season brings new ways to connect with nature.

Furthermore, the positive interactions with the professional and knowledgeable park rangers, as highlighted by visitors, add a significant layer of reassurance and support for those unfamiliar with such a large park. This friendly assistance contributes to a more enjoyable and stress-free camping experience, making it easier for locals to navigate the forest and discover its hidden gems, even for first-time visitors to the area.

Beyond the immediate boundaries of the forest, the campground's convenient location provides a balance between wilderness immersion and access to charming local communities. A short drive to places like Elkhart Lake offers the chance to enjoy local eateries, unique shops, and events, allowing campers to easily blend their rustic adventure with cultural excursions. This accessibility ensures that while you're deep in nature, you're never too far from necessary conveniences or a delightful diversion.

In conclusion, Greenbush Group Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's an immersive experience within one of Wisconsin's natural treasures. Its suitability for locals lies in its specialized group facilities, direct access to world-class trails and year-round activities, supportive staff, and proximity to both wild natural beauty and charming small towns. It truly offers a quintessential Wisconsin outdoor adventure, perfect for creating lasting memories with your favorite group of people, right here in the heart of our beautiful state.