Union Grove State Park Campground near Alton, Iowa offers equestrian camping facilities in a wooded setting with marked trails for horseback riding. The park sits at approximately 1,300 feet elevation in eastern South Dakota, where the terrain transitions from plains to subtle hills. The campground operates year-round with seasonal adjustments to water availability during winter months.
What to do
Trail riding: Union Grove State Park features multiple clearly marked horse trails through wooded terrain. "Lots of great hiking trails" notes Laura S., who found the campground "small, quiet and peaceful" with hosts who are "very kind and helpful."
Overnight horse camping: The lower campground section at Union Grove State Park Campground specifically accommodates equestrians with direct trail access. "Two campgrounds within the park. Lower one is for horses. Upper is not," explains Leslie B., adding that "trails in the area give you a chance to stretch your legs."
Water recreation: Big Sioux Recreation Area provides river access for paddlers. "Loading area for kayaks and canoes right next to the campgrounds," mentions Ashley E., who found "beautiful area, very shaded by trees in the RV camping spots" and "clean bathrooms."
Hiking: Newton Hills State Park offers multiple trail options for non-equestrian visitors. "There are plenty of parks and paved roadways to wander around on," reports Zach E., though he notes that "more established, kid friendly trails into the woods" would be an improvement.
What campers like
Clean facilities: The shower and bathroom facilities at many area campgrounds receive positive feedback. Austin and Natasha S. say of Union Grove State Park: "Shower rooms/bathrooms are immaculate, and smell so nice. Site was perfect for both an RV or a tent."
Quiet environment: Most horse campgrounds near Alton provide peaceful settings. "Staying here for a week before heading out west. Campground/facilities are nice and clean, host is very friendly and helpful!" shares Austin R. about Union Grove State Park.
Tent site options: While many sites accommodate RVs, tent campers can find suitable spots. "We had the best tent site on the grounds, corner spot with decent trees and distance," writes Leni K. about Union Grove, though she cautions "most other spots are right on top of each other."
Wildlife viewing: The natural settings attract various wildlife. Leni K. mentions finding "turkey feathers from a night visitor when we woke" at their Union Grove campsite, contributing to the nature experience.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking. "Reservations can be made ahead of time online. However day passes have to be purchased in person, cash, on site day of," explains Leni K. about Big Sioux Recreation Area.
Site spacing: Some campgrounds have limited privacy between sites. "The site next to me was quite loud through the trees until at least midnight so the quiet hours are not enforced," reports Carolyn M. about Big Sioux, adding that tent sites were "right on the edge of the playground, so the families had to walk right through my campsite."
Highway noise: Interstate proximity affects some campgrounds. Leslie B. notes that at Union Grove the "convenient to the interstate" location "also means some highway noise if you are not in a hard sided camper."
Seasonal considerations: Water levels at some recreation areas fluctuate. Zach E. mentions about Newton Hills: "the lake is currently dried up but that's no one's fault!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Big Sioux Recreation Area offers play facilities near camping areas. "Super clean, nicely spaced, tons of trails," notes MalibuDave42 L., who initially had concerns but found it to be a "great campsite."
Activities variety: Newton Hills Campground offers multiple family-friendly options. Nicholas S. shares: "The spacious and clean facilities provided the perfect backdrop for our outdoor getaway, offering a blend of adventure and relaxation away from the city. The kids had a blast exploring the natural surroundings."
Site selection: Choose appropriate sites for family camping. "We tent camped at a back-in site across from both the play area and the shower rooms. Loved it!" says Austin and Natasha S. about Union Grove, which offers "play equipment, horse trails, hiking trails" according to S.U.
Tips from RVers
Electric service options: Newton Hills Campground provides hookup options for RVs. "Beautiful, quiet, shaded, level sites with plenty of space between. Great trails and a short scenic road, plus some nice open spaces," reports Victor E., though he notes "bath facilities are convenient, but seem old and marginally maintained."
Parking logistics: Some sites have limited vehicle space. Robert shares about Union Grove: "Large sites, with power. Some back in and some pull through. Great restrooms with showers. Campground host. Make reservations online. Limited number of sites. Dump station."
Shade availability: Tree cover varies by campground and specific site. Sally C. cautions about Newton Hills: "Many campsites are almost full sun—so have your shade structure ready. Evenings very peaceful."
