Yellow River State Forest spans 8,500 acres of northeast Iowa's Driftless Area, characterized by deep valleys, limestone bluffs, and cold-water trout streams. The forest offers diverse terrain for equestrian camping near Edgewood, Iowa, with elevation changes ranging from 600 to 1,100 feet above sea level. Trail systems connect multiple campgrounds across varying landscapes through hardwood forests.
What to do
Trail riding on multi-use paths: Yellow River State Forest offers over 25 miles of designated bridle trails that connect to both equestrian campgrounds. "Very nice spacious sites for horses/riders including tie-ups, fire rings, tables at each site. Self registration, trails from camp including stream crossings in trout streams," notes James M. about Frontier Equestrian Campground.
Fishing in stocked trout streams: The forest contains several cold-water streams stocked with trout throughout the season. "Trout fishing is good with seasonal stockings," mentions a visitor to Creekside Equestrian Campground, which offers stream access points near campsites.
Hiking to scenic overlooks: For non-equestrian days, the forest features several observation points. "Visited the 3 lookouts including Iowa's only fire tower. Bird life is colorful. Lots of places to hike. Scenery is lush," shares Tori L. about staying at Big Paint Campground.
What campers like
Stream crossings: Horse riders appreciate the natural water features. "Clean, well kept sites with tie-ups, tables, fire rings, manure station and tools, multiuser trails including stream crossings," notes James M. about the equestrian facilities.
Spacious campsites: The equestrian campgrounds provide ample room for horse trailers and camping equipment. "Going in knowing that there were pit toilets and no potable water, I did not have high expectations for this campsite. I was pleasantly surprised to find it very well maintained with spacious sites," reports Tamsyn K. about Big Paint Campground.
Proximity to nearby attractions: The forest's location allows for day trips to other regional points of interest. "Close to Effigy Mounds & Pikes Peak! It has great trails & campsites & lots of geocaching!" mentions Holly M. about staying at Wyalusing State Park, which is within driving distance of Edgewood.
What you should know
No shower facilities: While the equestrian campgrounds offer electrical hookups, they lack showers. "This review is for Yellow River State Forest's Big Paint Campground which consists of sites 35 through 61. Big Paint is a couple miles from Little Paint, a larger campground with 70+ sites," explains Mary S., adding that amenities are minimal with "a picnic table and fire ring. Other than that, you can dispose of your trash and use a vault toilet."
Seasonal considerations: The forest experiences typical Midwest seasonal changes. "Was very thankful to find a place to overnight in mid-November. Not a lot of free parking options in this part of Iowa. No water, electric, or dump station," reports Stuart O. about off-season camping at Big Paint Campground.
Reservation requirements: During peak season, advance planning is essential. Backbone State Park, which is near Edgewood, requires reservations for its campgrounds. "All reservable spots...clean bathrooms, showers and spots. Beautiful park!" notes Edward B. about South Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Consider non-equestrian alternatives: For families without horses, nearby parks offer additional amenities. "We went camping at Backbone for a friend's wedding that was taking place at the park's lodge. While most of the wedding guests stayed in town, we opted to camp, during October. It was gorgeous! We loved waking up in the morning and going for a walk along the many trails," shares Larissa C. about Backbone State Park.
Bring insect protection: Seasonal insect activity can affect comfort levels. "Nice quiet little primitive campground next to the Wapsipinicon River. Unfortunately, when I was there the last weekend of May, the gnats were bad, and the mosquitoes were just starting to gear up. HOWEVER, take bug spray and enjoy the rustic peacefulness," advises Carol M. about camping at Matsell Bridge Natural Area.
Pack for self-sufficiency: Limited facilities mean preparation is important. "The best thing about this campground is its access to the squaw creek man bike single track. The sites are nice, and easy access to town if you forgot stuff," notes Kris P. about Wanatee Park, highlighting the benefit of nearby resources for forgotten items.
Tips from RVers
Electrical service availability: RV campers should note the available electrical options. "Great shady spots - register online - clean bathrooms and showers - no full hookups - must fill water tanks before parking and 30/50 power available," advises Edward B. about South Lake Campground at Backbone State Park.
Leveling considerations: Some campgrounds in the region require equipment for leveling. "We camped at this park for 9 nights with W/E on site with a dump upon exit/entrance. Our site was unlevel but was able to get the RV right with tri-levelers," shares Clint G. about camping at Wanatee Park.
Traveler
