Campgrounds near Fort Madison, Iowa offer diverse terrain for outdoor recreation, with sites situated along the Des Moines River and throughout Shimek State Forest. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from April through October, with limited winter camping options. Summer temperatures average 85°F with high humidity, making spring and fall particularly popular for equine camping activities.
What to do
Trail riding experiences: At Big Hollow Recreation Area, riders can explore wooded trails while non-riders enjoy other amenities. One visitor noted, "This site has a large number of mostly cement camper spots, including pull through. Campgrounds also include a shooting range, beach, equestrian trails, canoe rentals, and launch."
Hiking opportunities: The Waubonsie Trail system connects to several equestrian campgrounds in southeast Iowa. According to a camper, "We hiked the equestrian trails one afternoon and the regular trails the next day. I camped in the equestrian campground and loved it with my popup."
Fishing access: Rodeo Park provides convenient fishing access for campers looking to supplement outdoor activities. A visitor mentioned, "I stayed at the RV section right next to the rodeo arena. Full hookups for only $20 per night with a self-service registration box. Pretty basic surroundings though."
What campers like
Water recreation: Indian Lake Park offers swimming and paddling opportunities appreciated by families visiting horse campgrounds. A camper shared, "This park has something for everyone. There is a playground, a few nice hiking trails, and a lake with a nice sandy beach. Hiking, fishing, swimming, kayaking, bird watching."
Historical attractions: Bentonsport campground provides access to regional historical sites near equestrian facilities. One visitor explained, "Beautiful river views. Amazing camp hosts. Mid 1800's town right there and businesses open. There is a blacksmith, a Indian artifact museum and gift shops. Historical walking bridge that is amazing."
Well-maintained trails: Weinberg-King State Fish and Wildlife Area maintains quality multi-use trails. As one reviewer mentioned, "This park is very clean and well maintained. There is a lot to do from hunting, fishing, hiking, and more. There are usually a lot of horse back riders on the hiking trails."
What you should know
Registration systems: Most horse campgrounds near Fort Madison use self-registration, with payment boxes at entrances. A visitor to Rodeo Park reported, "Full hookups for only $20 per night with a self-service registration box. I forgot to count but looked like maybe 20 spots max."
Site configurations: Equestrian camping areas typically feature larger parking areas for trailers with adjacent paddock space. According to a camper at Lick Creek Unit in Shimek State Forest, "Good sights, great horse trails, awesome camping."
Seasonal water availability: Water access at campgrounds varies seasonally, with some sites having shared spigots rather than individual hookups. A Bentonsport camper noted, "17$ Bentonsport campground. Showers, toilets, 30/50/110 power water on sites to share water and dump on property."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several equestrian campgrounds feature playgrounds for children when not riding. A camper at Rodeo Park mentioned, "Decent playground close by though, and a heavily wooded park with trails beyond that."
Multi-activity options: Choose campgrounds with diverse activity options for non-riders in your group. A visitor to Indian Lake Park reported, "They have primitive tent sites, electric only, electric+water, and fhu. They also have cabins for rent. All very reasonably priced. Most of the sites are nice and shady and level."
Group site availability: River Valley Horsecamp accommodates family gatherings with appropriate facilities. One visitor shared their experience: "Camped here for a family reunion. Open sites near the Des Moines river and local road meant spots were just for sleeping. Excellent barns, accommodations, well-kept grounds and animals."
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electric service varies between campgrounds, with some offering both 30-amp and 50-amp connections. A Big Hollow Recreation Area camper stated, "This is a great campground. Sites are pretty level and easy to get parked. Full hookup!!! There is a good sized lake that we have kayaked and swam in."
Dump station locations: Not all equestrian campgrounds provide onsite dump stations, requiring planning for longer stays. At Waubonsie Trail Park, a camper noted, "Cute little RV/tent campground. Very nice hosts. Bathrooms and showers were exceptionally clean. All for under $20 for electric RV site!"
Site spacing considerations: Some equestrian campgrounds have tighter spacing in RV sections compared to horse camping areas. According to a visitor at Waubonsie Trail Park, "I only drove past the RV campground and the campsites were close together. The equestrian area is the way to go in my opinion but i love the quiet."
