Yellow River State Forest offers specialized equestrian camping facilities 30 miles northeast of Elkader, Iowa. The forest spans nearly 9,000 acres in the Driftless Area, characterized by steep terrain with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,100 feet. Camping options include both standard and horse-specific sites, with seasonal availability and varied amenities depending on campground location.
What to do
Trout fishing in stocked streams: Yellow River State Forest features several streams stocked with trout throughout the season. "Trout fishing is good with seasonal stockings," notes a visitor to Creekside Equestrian Campground. The forest maintains a stocking calendar for anglers planning their trips.
Hiking multi-use trails: The forest offers extensive hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging terrain. A visitor at Big Paint Campground mentions, "We enjoyed hiking despite the mosquitoes and humidity in August and were able to make a 5+ mile loop leaving from the campground." Trail maps are available at the information center.
Visit scenic lookouts: The state forest includes several notable viewpoints. "Visited the 3 lookouts including Iowa's only Fire tower. Bird life is colorful. Lots of places to hike. Scenery is lush," shares a camper from Big Paint Campground, highlighting additional attractions beyond the trails.
What campers like
Spacious equestrian sites: The horse campgrounds near Elkader, Iowa provide ample room for trailers and horses. A camper at Frontier Equestrian Campground appreciates the "very nice spacious sites for horses/riders including tie-ups, fire rings, tables at each site." These designated equestrian areas cater specifically to the needs of horse owners.
Water access: Many sites offer convenient access to streams and rivers. One camper at Big Paint notes, "Easy access to water," while another mentions the campground has "beautiful river access and great views." This access is particularly valuable during summer camping when temperatures can reach into the high 80s.
Quiet atmosphere: The relative seclusion of Yellow River campgrounds appeals to many visitors. A camper staying at Big Paint Campground during the off-season notes it was "very relaxing" and "nights were quiet." Another mentions the campground has "seclusion of our sites" despite being busy.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most Yellow River equestrian campgrounds offer basic amenities. "Clean, well kept sites with tie-ups, tables, fire rings, manure station and tools," reports a visitor to Creekside Equestrian Campground. However, shower facilities and flush toilets are not available at all locations.
Water availability: Portable water access varies by campground. A visitor to Big Paint Campground notes, "There's water at the information center (and a camp host site) outside the campground about 100 yards to the left." Campers should plan to bring drinking water or know where to fill containers.
Reservation system: Most sites can be reserved online. "Pay up front at the entrance station, or make a reservation online at least 2 days ahead of time (and pay a reservation fee)," advises a camper at Big Paint Campground. Some campgrounds maintain non-reservable sites for last-minute visitors.
Tips for camping with families
Visit nearby attractions: The area surrounding Yellow River State Forest offers additional destinations for families. A visitor to Wyalusing State Park across the Mississippi River suggests: "Close to Effigy Mounds & Pikes Peak! It has great trails & campsites & lots of geocaching!"
Choose appropriate campsites: Some sites are more suitable for families with children. A visitor to Big Paint notes, "We stumbled across this campground when looking for a weekend getaway from Chicago, and wow, what a great find. Hilly, much hillier than you'd expect in the midwest, with beautiful river views. The campground was nice with private sites."
Consider seasonal factors: Weather conditions affect camping experiences throughout the year. A camper at Backbone State Park shares: "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!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV campers should research specific site characteristics before booking. A visitor to South Lake Campground advises, "Great shady spots - register on line - clean bathrooms and showers - no full hook ups - must fill water tanks before parking and 30/50 power available."
Off-season camping options: Late-season RV camping offers unique opportunities. A visitor to Big Paint Campground shares, "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, so very much like a parking lot overnight from that perspective."
Site surface types: Surface conditions vary among campgrounds. "Most of the sites are completely on the grass," notes a Big Paint visitor, while highlighting that some sites offer "the gravel parking pad on #35 was appealing" during rainy conditions. This factor is important for RVs concerned about getting stuck in wet weather.
