Brushy Creek State Recreation Area provides equestrian camping facilities near Badger, Iowa at both North and South campgrounds. The recreation area spans across prairie terrain with moderate tree cover and sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation. During summer months, temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with higher humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with temperatures between 45-70°F.
What to do
Fishing for muskie: At North Equestrian Campground, anglers can find surprising fishing opportunities. "I was surprised to see a school of muskie while fishing, but it appeared that they were spawning at the time. If you go camping in May, make sure to bring a slightly heavier fishing pole to handle the musky. They're worth it," notes Brandon C.
Hiking through varied terrain: Visitors appreciate the well-maintained trail system for non-equestrian activities. "Hiking trails were well maintained. Can't wait to come again," shares Randi from North Equestrian Campground. The trails connect multiple campgrounds and natural areas within the park.
Stargazing away from light pollution: The open prairie setting creates excellent night sky viewing opportunities. According to Staci I., "Very little light pollution" means "The Stars Were So Bright!" This makes evening activities particularly rewarding during clear nights.
What campers like
Spacious, grassy campsites: The Beach Campground provides a family-friendly atmosphere with well-maintained sites. Taylor A. notes it's a "Great place to camp if you like fishing, horseback riding or a nice place to get away."
Off-season value: Camping during shoulder seasons offers significant cost benefits. Anna C. from North Equestrian Campground points out, "Open for off season camping. 14$/night for full hookups with pull thru RV sites."
Modern facilities: Despite the rural location, campers appreciate the comfort amenities. "Clean bathrooms and showers," notes Stella S., making the North Equestrian Campground "Great for an overnight on my road trip back to Denver."
What you should know
Limited shade in certain areas: Campsite exposure varies significantly by location. Stephanie B. reports at North Equestrian Campground: "Unfortunately, we had no shade in the afternoon so weren't able to eat dinner outside or enjoy a fire in the evening."
Different campground personalities: Each camping area within Brushy Creek has distinct characteristics. The South Equestrian Campground remains "nice and quiet" despite horse campers, according to Andrea H., who notes "People are here camping with their horses but the campground is still nice and quiet."
Seasonal facility closures: Services vary by season and external factors. "Restrooms/showers and playgrounds are all still closed due to covid but there is still plenty to do! Walking, hiking and exploring," observed Andrea H. during her visit to South Equestrian Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds available: Recreational amenities for children include dedicated play areas. "There was also a nice playground for the kids surrounded by a well maintained, large, grassy area," mentions Stephanie B. about North Equestrian Campground.
Beach access for swimming: Ledges State Park Campground, while not directly at Brushy Creek, offers another option within driving distance that families appreciate. According to James D., "This is more of a park for locals to picnic, fish and kayak than a destination for out of towners. It is a quiet park that had a lot of local dog walkers and would be a peaceful place to stay with the kids if stopping through the area."
Buddy sites available: For family groups requiring multiple campsites, specialized arrangements exist. Staci I. notes they "offer 'buddy sites' that are 2 sites really close together for those times when you bring friends, but have too many tents/vehicles to fall into the rules."
Tips from RVers
Power considerations for summer camping: Electrical needs vary by season at Brushy Creek horse campgrounds near Badger. Jeannie D. advises, "It's easy in spring or fall, we can get by with 30 amps. If you need 50 amps, you're going to want to head to the Beach Camp."
Level sites with good access: Squirrel Hollow Co Park provides an alternative camping location within the region. Nathan M. describes it as "Quiet and not crowded" with "some nice camping spots," though he notes "The park could use some improvements."
Paved interior roads: RV navigation within the campgrounds remains straightforward. Adam from South Equestrian Campground found "level and spacious RV spots" making it a "super cool state park, great amenities" where he "loved it and will go back if we're in that area again."
Guide
