Lumpie C.
Guide
GuideLedges State Park Campground
Very attractive nature area
Level sites and very quiet. Great hiking location and photo opportunities.
Equestrian Camping near Lanesboro, IA
6 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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Brushy Creek State Recreation Area near Lehigh offers specialized facilities for equestrians through its North and South Equestrian Campgrounds. Each campsite features individual hitching posts positioned directly behind the sites for convenient horse tethering. The recreation area maintains well-preserved bridle trails that connect directly to campground access points. The North Equestrian Campground remains quieter and more secluded with greater shade coverage than other camping areas within the park. Most sites include electric hookups with both 30-amp and 50-amp service available, though several non-electric sites create open space throughout the grounds.
The equestrian trail system at Brushy Creek spans multiple miles through varied terrain, connecting riders to the recreation area's lake and streams. Trail riders frequently encounter wildlife, including deer and small game throughout the park's extensive woodland areas. Horse owners appreciate the asphalt roads throughout the campgrounds that provide solid footing for both horses and vehicles with trailers. Restrooms with showers serve both equestrian campgrounds, though they may close seasonally during early spring and late fall months. Reservations are recommended, particularly during summer weekends when the equestrian campgrounds frequently reach capacity. The nearby Beach Campground offers additional camping options but does not provide horse-specific amenities such as hitching posts or direct trail access.
Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Lanesboro (6)
1. Ledges State Park Campground
"One of my favorite locations to camp in Iowa as a Boy Scout growing up was Ledges State Park. Since I hadn't been back in years, I decided to check it out and spend a night camping there."
"One of the more beautiful places to camp in Iowa. Awesome hiking trails and really well-shaded campsites."
from $12 - $25 / night
Check Availability2. Squirrel Hollow Co Park
3. North Equestrian Campground — Brushy Creek State Recreation Area
"We chose to stay in the equestrian campsite (even though we didn't have horses) because it was a bit more secluded and shaded. The campsites were nice and the lake and stream were very nice as well."
"There were a few campers with horse but not many. Hitching posts behind each site which we enjoyed seeing."
from $16 - $24 / night
Check Availability4. South Equestrian Campground — Brushy Creek State Recreation Area
"Walking, hiking and exploring. People are here camping with their horses but the campground is still nice and quiet."
from $24 - $48 / night
Check Availability5. Beach Campground — Brushy Creek State Recreation Area
from $20 - $40 / night
Check Availability6. Webster County Kennedy Park Campground
Drive Time
- 1 hr 5 min from Ames, IA
- 1 hr 32 min from Des Moines, IA
- 1 hr 43 min from Sioux City, IA
- 2 hrs 1 min from Omaha, NE
Equestrian Camping Reviews near Lanesboro, IA
55 Reviews of 6 Lanesboro Campgrounds
Cari E.
RangerLedges State Park Campground
Oasis in a cornfield
There’s not a lot going on in the vicinity of this state park, which is on the smaller side, and you will hear some cows, but all in all the campground exceeded my expectations for the two nights I stayed. This was partially because my site, 65, offered ample room away from the neighboring sites and backed up to a small green area with the road further back (minimal noise, aside from the random loud dirt bike). It also had a good mix of shade and sun if you’re hoping for a bit of solar charging, though no shore power or water. The site was long and mostly level with just the smallest tilt, but not enough to be a bother even without leveling blocks. The dumpster is nearby, but it’s a tiny one and was well maintained (aka not smelly). The brand new shower house was within easy walking distance as well. I had enough service (Verizon) to send texts and watch a bit of YouTube (buffering times were a smidge slow), but you likely wouldn’t have a strong enough signal for much more.
Lena H.
TravelerLedges State Park Campground
Long walk for tent sites
If you want to tent camp, bring a cart or something to haul everything with. The parking lot is a LONG WAY from any private tent site. Youth group camp, the ones with all the energy and strength, is next to parking lot. That's messed up.
- Jeannie D.Guide
North Equestrian Campground — Brushy Creek State Recreation Area
GREAT lake!
I like beach camp, but I LOVE north equestrian camp. Wish the boxes accomodated my rig. It's easy in spring or fall, we can get by with 30 amps. If you need 50 amps, you're going to want to head to the Beach Camp.
- Jeannie D.Guide
Ledges State Park Campground
It's okay
Great vibes. Camp's pretty far from the bones of the park, but the hike's relatively plesant. Cell coverage is terrible out here, and there is no WIFI to help keep people connected.
- DDave M.Guide
Ledges State Park Campground
Nice Campground
Canyon road and limestone cliffs are awesome. Secluded spots in the trees. If you have Verizon and rely on data this may not be the campground for you.
- AAnthony W.Guide
Ledges State Park Campground
Scenic Hiking
I stayed at Ledges in June and hiked the trails again in February. The campground is well kept but busy in the summer months with it being a popular hiking destination for Des Moines locals. With most of the surrounding areas having little to no elevation changes there are a few nice hikes along some rocky hills beside the river both in summer and winter.
Taylor A.GuideBeach Campground — Brushy Creek State Recreation Area
Friendly environment
Great place to camp if you like fishing, horseback riding or a nice place to get away.
Fred S.
LegendLedges State Park Campground
Loved this state park
Large campground, accommodates RVs & tents. Wooded & open sites. Appear level. Clean restrooms & shower stalls. Water. Playground. Friendly & helpful campground host. 3 bars T-Mobile. Great hiking trails in park.
Guide to Lanesboro
Camping near Lanesboro offers access to several state parks and county recreation areas within driving distance. The terrain features a mix of prairie landscapes, wooded areas, and waterways including the Des Moines River. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with higher humidity, while spring and fall camping provides milder conditions with temperatures ranging from 50-70°F.
What to do
Trail exploration: At Ledges State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy challenging terrain unusual for Iowa. "What I enjoy most about this park compared to others in Iowa are the sandstone ledges and the slopes on the trail. There are some excellent views, so make sure your phone has enough battery to take photos," notes Tom S., who appreciates the non-flat landscape.
Water activities: The Des Moines River provides opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and wading. "There is a kayak launch point off Lower Ledges Road. The water was calm," reports James D., who visited Ledges State Park. For families preferring lake activities, Brushy Creek State Recreation Area Beach Campground offers swimming at their beach area.
Equestrian camping near Lanesboro: Horseback riding trails are available at Brushy Creek's equestrian campgrounds. "The roads inside the campground were all asphalt so lots of bikers enjoying rides around the grounds. There were also hitching posts behind each site," explains Stephanie B. about the North Equestrian Campground, making it ideal for travelers bringing horses to the Lanesboro region.
What campers like
Diverse campsite options: North Equestrian Campground at Brushy Creek offers versatility beyond horse camping. "We chose to stay in the equestrian campsite (even though we didn't have horses) because it was a bit more secluded and shaded," shares Brandon C., highlighting that non-equestrians can enjoy these areas too.
Quieter camping experiences: For travelers seeking less crowded options around Lanesboro, Squirrel Hollow Co Park provides a more rustic experience. "Very quiet with nobody around. The park could use some improvements but parks like these are my favorite!" explains Nathan M., emphasizing its peaceful atmosphere.
Year-round availability: Some campgrounds remain open during off-season months. Anna C. notes about Brushy Creek, "Open for off season camping. $14/night for full hookups with pull thru RV sites," which provides value for campers visiting during less busy periods.
What you should know
Facilities vary significantly: Bathroom and shower availability differs between campgrounds. At Beach Campground, one visitor mentioned, "Great place to camp if you like fishing, horseback riding or a nice place to get away," but facilities may close seasonally or due to maintenance.
Shade considerations: Many campgrounds in the prairie regions have limited mature trees. Stephanie B. observed at North Equestrian Campground, "Unfortunately, we had no shade in the afternoon so weren't able to eat dinner outside or enjoy a fire in the evening," suggesting campers bring shade structures during summer months.
Seasonal closures: Several parks close facilities during colder months. "The shower house was not open yet due to the time of year, but the drop latrine was open, very clean and well lit," reports Staci I. about her spring visit to Brushy Creek.
Frequently Asked Questions
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campsite near Lanesboro, IA?
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Lanesboro, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Lanesboro, IA is Ledges State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 41 reviews.
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equestrian camping near
Lanesboro, IA?
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Lanesboro, IA?
TheDyrt.com has all 6 equestrian camping locations near Lanesboro, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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