Hacklebarney Woods County Park offers equestrian camping with three distinct camping areas in southwestern Iowa. The equestrian section includes individual horse corrals and trails connecting to the surrounding Loess Hills terrain. Located approximately 75 miles southeast of Harlan, this first-come, first-served campground provides drinking water, electric hookups, and shower facilities for riders after trail excursions.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The nearby Loess Hills region contains numerous bridle paths for equestrian camping enthusiasts. At Pony Creek Co Park, visitors note the surrounding landscape offers excellent wildlife viewing. "Been coming to this lake for years. It's a beautiful setting, right in the middle Loess Hills in sw Iowa. The fishing has always been good here," mentions Tony B. from Pony Creek Co Park.
Fishing access: Several parks near Harlan maintain stocked lakes and ponds for anglers. "This lake is one of the very few in Omaha that offers camping. And definitely of all types rv, and tent," notes Tony B. about Lake Cunningham Campground. The fishing opportunities extend beyond just the main lakes to smaller ponds within the park boundaries.
Non-motorized boating: Water activities complement the land-based recreation options. "The lake is right there, with a nice bike path that comes all the way around," says Alana R. about Lake Cunningham. Many local parks permit kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boarding on their lakes when conditions allow.
What campers like
Shower facilities: Equestrian campers particularly appreciate clean shower facilities after long days of riding. "Hacklebarney is very close to home so it makes for a great quick camping trip destination. Has surprisingly nice shower room for the size of the park," reports Ashley B. from Hacklebarney Woods County Park.
Spacious campsites: The layout of camping areas provides adequate separation between sites at several parks. "Love the new East lots. Full access with concrete pad. Tons of room between spots," comments Connor S. about Lake Cunningham Campground. This spacing allows horse owners to maintain appropriate distance between animals when needed.
Paved surfaces: Concrete pads provide stable, level foundations for RVs and camping equipment. "10 miles of paved bike trails and ALL paved campsites level and clean," states Steve D. about the camping areas at Lake Cunningham Campground. These improvements make setup and breakdown more efficient for equestrian campers with trailers.
What you should know
Entrance visibility: Some campgrounds have poorly marked entrances that require extra attention. "Be careful not to drive by Hucklebarney Woods, if you're not careful you will pass it by. There is a sign but it is not very visible and you may have to hit your brakes pretty hard," warns Matt S. The equestrian entrance requires additional navigation past the main entrance.
Limited amenities: Some smaller parks offer minimal facilities. At Pony Creek, "The spaces are really small, and not really one view of the lake. This place would probably work for a over night stay, but not a destination," advises Tony B.
Seasonal closures: Water-based facilities may close temporarily for maintenance or environmental concerns. "Due to mussel infestation the lake and campgrounds are close. When it's open there is a small semi primitive campground," reports Christy H. about seasonal conditions at Lake Cunningham Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some parks include play equipment for children. "There is a pond in front of the park for fishing and a small playground," notes Matt S. about Pony Creek Co Park, making it suitable for families with younger children who need recreational options beyond horseback riding.
Water recreation options: Families can participate in various water activities depending on the park. "Lake Cunningham is a fun destination for getting outside if you only have an afternoon to escape! The lake itself is great for kayaking, paddle boarding, and sailing!" shares Kwin K.
Pet-friendly facilities: Many parks accommodate family pets alongside horses. "I like the beach for letting my dog swim!" mentions Kwin K. about Lake Cunningham, highlighting options for families traveling with multiple animals.
Tips from RVers
Hookup specifications: RVers should verify the exact hookup configurations before arrival. "The sites have concrete pads with power, but no water or sewer. There is a fill station on the way in. You can pay $1 for a hot shower in the comfort station, which is very clean," advises Alana R. about Lake Cunningham.
Campsite selection: RV campers recommend choosing specific areas within larger parks. "We felt really on top of our neighbors here, though a simple drive around showed us areas that are better than others," suggests Morgan W. from Lake Cunningham Campground.
Pull-through availability: Some parks offer convenient pull-through sites for larger rigs. "Here we got a level pull-thru spot and the encouragement and advice of a kind camp host as we got our tanks washed through and drained. Slips are nicely spaced apart from each other," mentions James H. about his experience at Lake Cunningham.
Legend
