Equestrian campsites near Johnston, Iowa serve riders accessing trail networks throughout central Iowa. Most horse-focused facilities provide electrical connections with varying amperage options to accommodate extended stays with trailer parking. Located within an hour's drive of Johnston, these specialized campgrounds operate seasonally from early April through late December, closing during winter months when trails become impassable.
What to do
Trail riding at Elk Rock State Park: Riders can access miles of wooded paths with varying terrain levels. According to Bradley N., "We stayed in the Elk Rock Equestrian campground and it was so peaceful and beautiful. The facilities were clean."
Wildlife viewing at Jester County Park: The park features a bison viewing area. As Kent B. notes, "Pretty nice park during the week, on weekends it is way too crowded," suggesting weekday visits may offer better wildlife viewing opportunities.
Hiking at Ledges State Park: Steep sandstone formations create challenging terrain unusual for Iowa. Camden O. explains, "Stayed at this campground for my college visit to ISU and I nearly went to the university just because I wanted to be here at this park every weekend."
Water activities at Brushy Creek: Campers can fish or kayak on the lake adjacent to the equestrian campground. Andrea H. reports, "Walking, hiking and exploring. People are here camping with their horses but the campground is still nice and quiet."
What campers like
Clean facilities at South Equestrian Campground: Full hookups make extended stays with horses comfortable. Adam notes, "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."
Peaceful atmosphere at Squirrel Hollow: Less developed campgrounds offer more solitude. Nathan M. explains, "The park is quite with some nice camping spots. Very quite with nobody around. The park could use some improvements but parks like these are my favorite!"
Affordability at Dallas County Fairgrounds: Budget-friendly overnight options with hookups. James W. describes it as "Clean, economical, and friendly staff," making it a practical option for riders seeking basic amenities.
Trail access at Madison County: Year-round campground availability for winter trail access. Richard R. explains, "Water, gas and Sewer was $15 daily, $105 weekly, and $420 monthly. Prices go up to $120 weekly when it gets cold."
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect access: Most equestrian campgrounds operate from April through December. Matt S. noted about one popular park, "It has been closed since January 2018, but it scheduled to re-open in January of 2019."
Reservation requirements vary: Some campgrounds fill quickly during peak riding season. For Jester Park, Larissa C. advises, "Our favorite spot to camp is 410 and 409. It's a secluded area within the 400s that is lined with trees on one side."
Limited horse facilities at Squirrel Hollow Park: While allowing horses, the park lacks dedicated corrals. Dave M. describes it as a "Rustic Country Campground," indicating basic amenities only.
Water levels affect trail conditions: Spring flooding can close river crossings on horseback routes. Jennifer M. observed at one park, "The water looked pretty nice, although is was quite low at the time."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some parks maintain playgrounds near horse camping areas. Willy W. notes, "The campgrounds are very clean. There are lots of trails around the area. It's also a great place if you like to go horse back riding with lots of trails that go near the water."
Educational opportunities: Visit nature centers with children between trail rides. Jim S. writes about Jester Park, "Nature/Conservancy center there is just next level. They advertise Elk and Bison which are smart enough to stay far away from humans, as it should be."
Spacious sites for group camping: Look for campsites that accommodate multiple families. Luke C. mentions one park offers "Good fishing nice open areas and trails to explore. Lots of cool kid activities."
Consider noise levels: Madison County Fairground can host events during camping season. Richard R. notes, "You might get a view of bridesmaids and grooms at the fairgrounds on the weekend heading to a wedding in the fairground building."
Tips from RVers
Dump station availability: Not all equestrian campgrounds offer sanitary dumps. Jim S. observed at one location, "I've never been to one so thought out and efficient. Weird favorite thing but if you know you know."
Parking logistics: Some sites require specialized parking for horse trailers with living quarters. According to Lena H., "If you want to tent camp, bring a cart or something to haul everything with. The parking lot is a LONG WAY from any private tent site."
Electric service quality: Amperage varies between parks, with 50-amp service limited to newer facilities. One camper, Adam, confirmed, "level and spacious RV spots," making positioning horse trailers with living quarters easier.
Firewood restrictions: Some horse campgrounds limit ground fires or require purchased wood. Elizabeth K. mentions, "The only reason it doesn't get a solid five stars is because it was a bit difficult to buy firewood!"
