Equestrian camping opportunities near Boone, Iowa include several parks with dedicated facilities for riders and their horses. The region offers varied terrain across central Iowa's rolling landscapes with elevations ranging between 900-1100 feet above sea level. Raccoons remain prevalent throughout Iowa campgrounds, requiring careful food storage even at horse-focused sites.
What to do
Trail riding exploration: Brushy Creek State Recreation Area maintains over 45 miles of multi-use trails connecting directly to the North Equestrian Campground. One camper noted, "I stayed here at the start of the summer and had a great time. We chose to stay in the equestrian campsite because it was a bit more secluded and shaded."
Fishing breaks: Between rides, anglers can find surprising catches at several parks. At Brushy Creek, one visitor reported, "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."
Star gazing: The open prairie settings of many equestrian campgrounds provide excellent night sky viewing. At Beach Campground, a visitor shared: "Very little light pollution" and "The stars were so bright!" Clear night skies make for perfect evening relaxation after a day of riding.
What campers like
Full hookups for extended stays: South Equestrian Campground at Brushy Creek offers complete services for longer horse camping trips. A camper reported, "This was a super cool state park, great amenities, level and spacious RV spots. We loved it and will go back if we're in that area again."
Winter camping options: Some equestrian sites remain open off-season with reduced rates. A visitor to North Equestrian Campground noted, "Open for off season camping. 14$/night for full hookups with pull thru RV sites."
Camping without horses: Non-equestrians also enjoy the equestrian campgrounds for their quieter atmosphere. One camper explained, "First time camping at south campground. Loving it so far! Walking, hiking and exploring. People are here camping with their horses but the campground is still nice and quiet."
What you should know
Hitching posts instead of corrals: Unlike some horse camps, Brushy Creek equestrian sites provide hitching posts rather than enclosed corrals. A visitor observed, "Hitching posts behind each site which we enjoyed seeing," making the campgrounds suitable for horses accustomed to temporary tethering.
Site selection for shade: Summer visitors should carefully choose sites with tree cover when possible. At Ledges State Park, located within driving distance of Boone, a camper warned about tent sites: "The parking lot is a LONG WAY from any private tent site. Youth group camp, the ones with all the energy and strength, is next to parking lot."
Seasonal considerations: Plan for weather variations, as Iowa can experience temperature swings during camping season. At North Equestrian Campground, one visitor noted their summer challenge: "Unfortunately, we had no shade in the afternoon so weren't able to eat dinner outside or enjoy a fire in the evening."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several equestrian campgrounds maintain playground facilities for children. One visitor to North Equestrian noted, "There was also a nice playground for the kids surrounded by a well maintained, large, grassy area."
Day activities without horses: Families appreciate the multi-use nature of these parks. At Jester County Park, a visitor shared: "Good fishing nice open areas and trails to explore. Lots of cool kid activities. Buffalo ranch near by which is cool as well."
Beach options nearby: Horse campgrounds at Brushy Creek provide convenient access to water recreation. As one camper observed, "The beach looked real nice, not too crowded for a hot July day," making it a good option for families wanting to combine horse camping with swimming.
Tips from RVers
Power supply management: Horse camping sites near Boone offer varying electrical capabilities. A camper at North Equestrian advised: "I like beach camp, but I LOVE north equestrian camp. Wish the boxes accommodated my rig. 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."
Dump station quality: Horse campgrounds maintain efficient waste disposal facilities. One RVer at Squirrel Hollow Co Park appreciated the "Quiet and not crowded" atmosphere, noting "The park could use some improvements but parks like these are my favorite!"
