Looking for the best horse camping near Lancaster? Finding a place to stay in Wisconsin while traveling with your horse has never been easier. These scenic and easy-to-reach Lancaster campsites are perfect for equestrian campers.
Located on a high bluff overlooking the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers, a land of sculpted limestone and prehistoric Native American mounds can be found amid a swath of preserved hardwood forest. Translated “home of the warrior” in the language of the local Munsee–Delaware Indians, Wyalusing Hardwood Forest and the Wyalusing Mounds have received recognition as national natural landmarks and historic places. Adjacent to the forest, Wyalusing State Park is the perfect camping destination for a little outdoors R&R, while discovering more about the natural and cultural history at the junction of Wisconsin’s and America’s greatest waterways.
Visitors to Wyalusing State Park have two campgrounds to choose from. Wisconsin Ridge is set on a high bluff over the Wisconsin River, and Homestead is located in shady hardwood forest. Combined, they offer 109 campsites for tent and RV campers; there is also a large group campground. Both campgrounds provide flush and vault restrooms, shower facilities and drinking water. A portion of sites in each campground have electrical hookups for RVs, and there is a dump station near the Homestead site. The park also has several picnic areas, sports courts, and five reservable group picnic shelters. Firewood, camping supplies, ice and boat rentals are available at the concession stand. Seasonal campsite rates range from $15–$35/night; entrance to the park requires an additional fee.
With nearly 24 miles of land and water trails in Wyalusing State Park, you’ll find ample opportunities for exploring riverside bluffs. Whether you like to walk, hike, ride, or paddle, there’s a trail just for you. Take an easy interpretive walk to learn about the park’s flora, fauna and geology; hike to see limestone caves, waterfalls, and a great view of the river; hop on your bike for a ride around the edge of a wooded grassland; or board a canoe or kayak and paddle through the Mississippi backwaters. Many of these trails are also open during the winter for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Other park activities include fishing, bird watching, and seasonal hunting.
$15 - $35 / night
Cox Hollow Campground in Governor Dodge State Park, near Dodgeville, WI, is a gem for those who love the great outdoors. This place is open year-round and offers a mix of tent, RV, and even glamping accommodations. The campground is known for its spacious sites, many of which provide a good level of privacy thanks to the lush greenery.
One of the standout features here is the access to drinking water and electric hookups, making it convenient for longer stays. Campfires are allowed, so you can enjoy a cozy evening under the stars. Speaking of stars, the night sky here is something to behold—clear and full of constellations.
Visitors often rave about the variety of activities available. Kayaking on the lakes is a favorite, and there are plenty of trails to explore, whether you're into hiking or just a leisurely walk. The beaches can get busy, especially during summer holidays, but they are well-maintained and perfect for a day of relaxation.
Families will appreciate the playgrounds and the clean bathrooms with showers. If you're into fishing, the lakes offer some decent spots, though you might have to find a good picnic spot along the shoreline since piers are limited.
For those looking to venture out, Bob’s Bitchin BBQ in Dodgeville comes highly recommended for a tasty treat. Overall, Cox Hollow Campground offers a solid mix of natural beauty and practical amenities, making it a great spot for a camping trip.
Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground, nestled near Blanchardville, WI, is a gem for those looking to escape into nature. This campground offers a mix of tent and RV sites, some with electric hookups. The sites are generally spacious and provide a good amount of privacy, with some even being bi-level, so check the photos when reserving.
The campground is perched on a hill, giving you a bit of a workout if you plan to walk to the lake or picnic areas. Speaking of the lake, it's a central feature here, perfect for kayaking, canoeing, or just lounging by the water. There are three boat launches, including a motor ramp and a canoe launch, plus a fishing pier. If you didn't bring your own boat, no worries—there's a rental place run by the nearby Cork Down Saloon.
For those who love hiking, the park has well-marked and maintained trails like the Windy Ridge and Prairie Loop trails. The beach area is a hit, especially with its concession stand serving up some tasty ice cream. And if you're worried about mosquitoes, the park has plenty of bat houses to keep those pests in check.
Facilities are clean, with showers and running water available, though the water has a mild iron taste. There are also pit toilets scattered throughout the campground. Pets are welcome, and there's even a separate pet area by the lake.
Nearby attractions include the Toy Train Barn Museum in Argyle, a fun spot to visit if the weather turns sour. For a bite to eat, the Cork Down Saloon is just outside the park's secondary entrance.
Overall, Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of activities to keep you busy, whether you're into water sports, hiking, or just relaxing by the campfire.
Twin Valley Campground in Governor Dodge State Park is a gem nestled near Dodgeville, WI. This place is a haven for those who love the great outdoors. With over 5,000 acres to explore, the park boasts two beautiful lakes and a network of scenic trails that are perfect for hiking. One of the highlights is the hike to Stephens’ Falls, which is a must-see.
The campground itself is divided into upper and lower sections. The lower section is more suited for larger RVs, while the upper section offers cozier, shaded sites ideal for tents and smaller rigs. The sites are spacious and wooded, providing a good amount of privacy and a true nature experience.
Amenities here include electric hookups, drinking water, and clean shower houses. Pets are welcome, and there are picnic tables and fire pits at each site, making it easy to enjoy a meal outdoors. The campground is also big rig friendly, so you won't have trouble finding a spot if you're rolling in with a larger setup.
Visitors have praised the park for its family-friendly atmosphere and the variety of activities available. The lakes are great for swimming, and strong swimmers can even cross the lake and hike back on a trail. The beach area is clean and has a concession stand for snacks and drinks.
Nearby attractions include the quirky House on the Rock and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin, both worth a visit if you have the time. For any camping supplies you might need, the Jumping Jupiter General Store just outside the park has you covered.
Overall, Twin Valley Campground offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty, recreational activities, and convenient amenities, making it a great spot for a weekend getaway or a longer stay.
Located about an hour’s drive north of Cedar Rapids, Backbone State Park is Iowa’s oldest state park. Established in 1920, it was named for a narrow limestone ridge—the Devil’s Backbone—along the Maquoketa River. At its founding, it was one of the largest state parks in the U.S. to offer camping, picnicking and hiking opportunities. Since that time, the park has expanded to 2,100 acres—almost double its original size—and offers even more opportunities for locals and visitors to get outdoors and enjoy some time in nature. Whether it’s wandering the woods, fishing on a quiet creek, lounging by the lake, or just napping in shade under a swinging hammock, there’s something for everyone here.
The two campgrounds at Backbone State Park offers 125 campsites for tent and RV campers. The large South Lake Campground has nearly 100 sites, about half with electrical hookups, with flush toilets and showers. The smaller Six Pines Campground has 27 primitive tent sites with vault toilets. Most sites are open and grassy, but there are plenty of shade trees around. Both locations have drinking water faucets and trash receptacles; a dump station is located at the South Lake Campground. The park also offers a few 1- and 2-bedroom cabins for those visiting sans tent or RV; bedding not provided. Many sites and facilities are ADA accessible. A small store in the park sells bait, firewood and some concessions. Reservations are accepted, but some sites are held open for first-come, first-served campers. Seasonal campsite rates range from $6–$16/night; cabins range from $50–$100/night.
There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy at Backbone State Park. The park features several playgrounds, picnic areas, an outdoor auditorium, and a museum. More than 21 miles of multiuse trails explore the woods and waterways within the park. Taking a hike or ride is the best way to see some of the park’s natural rock features, including the Stone Arch, Balance Rock, and the Devil’s Backbone. In winter, many of these trails are open for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Swimming, paddling and boating can be enjoyed on Backbone Lake, with kayak and canoe rentals available from the park, and angers can fish for trout on the creek out of Richmond Springs. And rock climbers will find several challenging routes on the park’s many limestone cliffs.
Yellow River State Forest is a perfect place to explore some of Iowa's best hiking trails. Located in northeast Iowa in Allamakee County, the forest is part of the "driftless area" that escaped the glaciers during the most recent ice age. The forest consists of 8,900 acres of hardwood and coniferous forest and is comprised of 6 units.
The Paint Creek Unit is of primary interest to the recreationist, with well-kept camping areas, equestrian accommodations, fishing, hunting, and over 45 miles of trails for hiking, equestrian riding, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.
Frontier equestrian campgrounds are non-modern and have non-electric sites with hitching rails and vault toilets
$16 / night
The Creekside and Frontier equestrian campgrounds are non-modern and have non-electric sites with hitching rails and vault toilets. There is no drinking water located in the campgrounds at Yellow River State Forest but it is available at the A-frame information center located on State Forest Road near Big Paint Campground approximately four miles off Highway 76.
Yellow River State Forest is a perfect place to explore some of Iowa's best hiking trails. Located in northeast Iowa in Allamakee County, the forest is part of the "driftless area" that escaped the glaciers during the most recent ice age. The forest consists of 8,900 acres of hardwood and coniferous forest and is comprised of 6 units. The Paint Creek Unit is of primary interest to the recreationist, with well-kept camping areas, equestrian accommodations, fishing, hunting, and over 45 miles of trails for hiking, equestrian riding, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.
$12 / night
The equestrian campground at Governor Dodge State Park has 20 campsites, 18 with electric hook-ups. Each campsite includes a high-line hitching post with cable, and has a picnic table and fire ring. Drinking water, vault toilets, a horse washing station and manure bunkers are provided. Campers can use the shower building located in the Hickory Ridge group camp area. The equestrian campground is open from May 1 through Nov. 15.
The equestrian campground is located in the Hickory Ridge area of Governor Dodge State Park. The campground has easy access to the park's 22 miles of equestrian trails - including both the interior horse trail system and the 15-mile Driftless Horse Trail.
Campers must have a horse to camp at this site. Total driveway length 95'. Hunting occurs in the park along trails from Oct thru Dec and again in April.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Lancaster, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Lancaster, WI is Wyalusing State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 55 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Lancaster, WI?
TheDyrt.com has all 9 equestrian camping locations near Lancaster, WI, with real photos and reviews from campers.
