Equestrian camping near Ely, Iowa allows riders to explore the region's mixed hardwood forests and prairie terrain. The area sits within the Eastern Iowa Drift Plain, characterized by gently rolling hills formed during glacial periods. Winter temperatures typically drop to 10°F while summer averages reach 85°F with moderate humidity, creating distinct seasonal riding conditions.
What to do
Trail riding at Matsell Bridge: Access over 1,200 acres of natural woodlands with trails running alongside the Wapsipinicon River. Matsell Bridge Natural Area offers primitive camping with connections to riding paths. Ryan notes, "Good campsite for a mellow weekend. When I visited we were the only campers there and it was awesome!"
Fishing breaks between rides: Take advantage of Lake George for angling opportunities when not on horseback. The lake supports bass and panfish populations accessible from shore. According to James M., Loud Thunder offers "nice corral with day use and camping sites... Lake George for fishing, paddling, boat rental."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide optimal viewing for deer, wild turkey, and various bird species. Carol M. explains, "Beautiful location, ranger close by, wood for sale just across the bridge, fire pits and picnic tables at every site."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Lake Iowa County Park maintains well-kept bathroom and shower facilities even during peak season. Claudia M. confirms, "Shower house and bathrooms were really nice! Wasn't expecting to want to take a shower but couldn't pass up the opportunity when we saw them. Very hot water."
Spacious horse sites: Campsites designed for equestrian use provide adequate space between neighbors and room for trailers. Wanatee Park offers "very spacious" sites according to Kristy E., who adds it's "very clean and well cared for. Lots of opportunity to ride the numerous bike trails nearby."
Natural surroundings: Sites often border natural areas providing shade and wildlife viewing. Leslie P. describes, "The area around the lake and nearby pond is not overly developed. There are wild raspberries and mulberries, lots of wildlife. We had a blue jay that visited us regularly at our campsite, along with deer walking through."
What you should know
Seasonal flooding impacts: River-adjacent equestrian sites may experience closures during high water periods. Jessica H. notes at Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area, "When the Cedar River is high, it pushes Chicken Creek out of its banks which can mean potential closure of campgrounds."
Reservation requirements: Many equestrian sites require advance booking, especially during summer weekends. Brett S. advises, "Half of the campgrounds is first come first serve, the other half is reserve only."
Bug protection needed: Insect activity intensifies near water sources and during summer months. Carol M. warns, "Unfortunately, when I was there the last weekend of May, the gnats were bad, and the mosquitoes were just starting to gear up."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple facilities offer play equipment near camping areas for children. Heather S. explains, "My family enjoyed this campground. Even though some of the campground was slightly flooded during our stay, we still had fun!"
Educational opportunities: Keokuk County Belva Deer Park provides nature learning experiences through marked trails and wildlife viewing. Keith B. confirms, "Clean park warm showers. $12 a night for primitive camping and you get nice warm showers by the main entrance."
Safety considerations: Bring high-visibility clothing during hunting seasons when sharing trails. Jessica H. advises, "If you plan to hike during hunting season, it's a good idea to wear bright colors/blaze orange so you are visible to hunters."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Jackson County Iowa Fairgrounds provides basic amenities for equestrian events. James M. describes it as offering "basics: water, electric, showers some shade, stores nearby."
Hookup availability: Electric sites are available at most equestrian campgrounds, though amp ratings vary. Clint G. shares, "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."
Space considerations: Horse trailers require extra parking room beyond RV requirements. Kris P. notes, "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."
