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Best Equestrian Camping near Lansing, IA

97 Reviews

Yellow River State Forest offers specialized equestrian camping at Frontier and Creekside Equestrian Campgrounds. Sites include tie-ups for horses, picnic tables, fire rings, and manure stations with tools. Both campgrounds provide direct access to multi-user trails including stream crossings in trout streams. The sites are spacious and well maintained, allowing ample room for horses and riders. Electric hookups, fifty-amp service, and thirty-amp hookups are available at both locations. Campers can fish in seasonally stocked trout streams that flow through the forest. Clean, well-kept sites accommodate both horses and camping equipment with self-registration available on arrival.

Trails throughout Yellow River State Forest connect riders to numerous routes with stream crossings. Multi-user paths accommodate horses, hikers, and cyclists, though certain trails are designated specifically for equestrian use. Trout fishing opportunities enhance the experience for campers who bring fishing gear along with their horses. Sites remain open year-round, though seasonal considerations may affect trail conditions during wet periods or winter months. The campgrounds are situated in valleys surrounded by hills that provide scenic riding opportunities. Self-registration is standard, with no reservations required during off-season periods. The forest landscape offers varied terrain for riders of different experience levels, with trails running through valleys and along ridge lines.

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Best Equestrian Sites Near Lansing, Iowa (9)

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Equestrian Camping Reviews near Lansing, IA

97 Reviews of 9 Lansing Campgrounds

  • Holly M.
    Jul. 5, 2016

    Wyalusing State Park Campground

    Great Park!

    A very nice park located close to the Iowa border. Close to Effigy Mounds & Pikes Peak! It has great trails & campsites & lots of geocaching! Come one New Years for the annual carp drop :)

  • Brian O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 13, 2023

    Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground

    the best river for canoeing / kayaking in Wisconsin

    This was our second visit to this park. On both occasions we wanted to canoe the scenic Kickapoo river. Our first trip was five years ago and we got portage service for our canoe from Titanic Rentals in Ontario. We went from there (bridge 1) to bridge 12 Which took nearly all day, but we were able to have lunch at the park's Wildcat landing, the only real and equipped picnic site along the river. NOTE; Google maps makes it look like the campground and landing are near each other. They are not. It's three miles of very steep roads, so don't think you're going to fetch anything you left behind.
     The campground is on top of the ridge, which means in the morning you will look out over a fog shrouded valley through the trees. The views from the overlooks, which are a short hike, are worth checking out. Campsite 15 is the only one with a clear view.
    There are walk in sites and the paths are wide and clear. The park provides large carts for your stuff so you can really pack stuff in and get away from it all. But the family tent and RV sites generally well spaced, check the map as some are more private than others.
     Our second trip was in August, 2023 and we canoed from bridge 12 to LaFarge (bridge 21). It was later in the season than our previous trip, and in the slightly less scenic stretch of the river. As a result, we didn't see any other boaters.
    Campsites have basic fire ring, and there are pit toilets as well as one Full facility with running water and hot showers. Firewood is available at the Ranger station.
    There's also Equestrian camping elsewhere in the park and lots of trails for both hikers and horses.
     The town of Ontario has a good general store and a couple bars, but this is pretty much wilderness and small farms. Two unique places however are Wild Things Furrier near bridge twelve. Want a coonskin cap or some smoked trout? This is the place.
     More unique than that if you want to treat yourselves, go 34 miles south to the St. Frances Hermitage restaurant. It's run by a small order of French Monks and Nuns who raise their own animals and grow the vegetables they serve. Their bakery is also delicious. This is not fast food, this is a gastronomic experience.

  • Chad K.
    Aug. 20, 2016

    Wyalusing State Park Campground

    Nice

    This nice SP is located on the Iowa border. It was a quiet nice little get away with several trails that challenge anyone in your group. Campground was clean and well maintained.

  • Mary S.
    Aug. 19, 2018

    Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest

    Small campground has nearby hiking and fishing

    This review is for Yellow River State Forest's Big Paint Campground which consists of sites 35 through 61. Big Paint is a couple miles from Little Paint, a larger campground with 70+ sites. There are two equestrian campgrounds (Creekside and Little Frontier with sites numbered 1 through 34) as well as hike in campgrounds for backpackers. A photo of an area map is included.

    Why did we choose Big Paint instead of Little Paint?

    It's smaller and that's just our personal preference. There were only 4 sites occupied early Friday afternoon and a few more were reserved. We liked site 35, the first site on the left as you enter. This site is like being in a garden with trees and flowers surrounding the site. It had rained and more rain was coming, so the gravel parking pad on #35 was appealing. Most of the sites are completely on the grass.

    Activities

    Stocked trout streams are an attraction for fishermen; see photo of stocking calendar. We enjoyed hiking despite the mosquitoes and humidity in August and were able to make a 5+ mile loop leaving from the campground. You can also hike from Little Paint, and there are equestrian trails. This would also be a good area for X-country skiing and snowmobiling. A photo of the trail map is included. Caution: hunting is allowed in the non-campground area of the state forest.

    Amenities

    Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Other than that, you can dispose of your trash and use a vault toilet. There's water at the information center (and a camp host site) outside the campground about 100 yards to the left.

    Cost

    You're not getting much (and that's not a bad thing) so the $9 fee seems fair. Pay up front at the entrance station, or make a reservation online at last 2 days ahead of time (and pay a reservation fee). There are 7 non-reservable sites at Big Paint. I doubt that Big Paint fills up; just check the reservation site to see if they get crowded.

    https://iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com/camping/yellow-river-state-forest/r/campsiteSearch.do?search=site&page=siteresult&contractCode=IA&parkId=610130

  • Kim The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2020

    Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground

    Wonderful cart in sites

    The cart in sites are fantastic at Wildcat Mountain! Each site is spacious with most heavily treed for shade. Each site has a nice large flat pad for a tent or two, fire ring, bench and picnic table. Proximity to potable water, vault or modern toilets and designated parking are all within 400 yards of all sites. 

    The park is located in the Kickapoo valley area where the driftless area is amazing to hike. You can kayak or tube down the river that is flanked by high limestone bluffs. The hiking trails are well maintained. There is also extensive horse trails, a beautiful outdoor ampitheater for viewing sunsets and access to the river right in the park. 

    The campers were respectful and quiet. Our campsite was fairly clean when we arrived. Contactless registration due to covid 19. That made getting set up quick and easy!  The cart provided was fairly big for less trips. I would happily camp here again!

  • Michael V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2022

    Wyalusing State Park Campground

    Beautiful views of the driftless and river valley below

    Stayed here back in 2017, will be going back hopefully soon. Beautiful area! Campground is very nice, with showers and restrooms. Camp sites are far enough away from neighbors that there is some privacy. Need a state park sticker to access. Illinois Minnesota and Iowa are all short drives away. We have also snow shoes here to the ice caves in the winter. Which was fun.

  • Roger A.
    Sep. 2, 2016

    Wyalusing State Park Campground

    Wisconsin's Gem

    This is an amazing park on the Wisconsin/Iowa border, overlooking where the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers join. I usually try to get in at least 1 trip a year, if lucky enough 2-3. Amazing park with great views, camping, hiking, canoeing/kayaking. Very clean restrooms and showers, tent and trailer camping. If you are lucky enough to get a site on the ridge you won't be disappointed.

  • Jen L.
    Aug. 23, 2018

    Wyalusing State Park Campground

    Fantastic get away

    Located on the far western edge of Wisconsin this state park offers a little of everything - hiking trails connected to the camp grounds, boat access to the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers, overlook of where the Wisconsin River meets the Mississippi River, showers and flush toilets, playground/basketball/tennis courts, etc. Depending on what part of the park you are in (and the season) you can be away from it all or have almost all the comforts of home. There are 2 campgrounds within the park - Homestead (back in the woods and a little more rustic with vault toilets and no showers) and Ridge (on the bluff). Also both an indoor group site and outdoor group site. Campsites are mix of RV (+/- electric) and tent. Ridge Campground sites- located on the bluff they stay dry even when the rivers are at flood level. Some sites have views of the river right from the tent/RV. During peak season you will definitely need a reservation (likely months in advance), but there are a few same day spots held in reserve. Also during peak season there is a concession stand near the campground and boat rental (canoe/kayak) near the boat launch (neither were open when I camped there but were on a separate day trip)

    A short drive from the state park is Effigy Mounds National Monument with additional trails and a reverse of the scenic view (looking south and east instead of west/northwest). Definitely worth a look since its FREE and so close by. Also in the area is Villa Louis (historical homestead) which can be toured for a modest fee (good rainy day activity). If coming from Madison area be sure to check out some of the small wineries along the drive either to or from the park.

Guide to Lansing

Horse camping in Iowa offers a unique way to explore the great outdoors while enjoying the companionship of your equine friends. With several campgrounds catering specifically to horse enthusiasts, you can find the perfect spot to set up camp and ride the scenic trails.

Equestrian campgrounds include essential amenities

  • The Frontier Equestrian Campground features spacious sites with tie-ups and fire rings, making it ideal for horse riders looking for a comfortable stay.
  • At the Creekside Equestrian Campground, you'll find well-kept sites equipped with tie-ups and a manure station, ensuring a clean and convenient experience for both you and your horse.
  • The Reno Horse Campground offers a peaceful setting with ample space for multiple tents and handmade rock fire pits, perfect for a relaxing evening after a day of riding.

Most campgrounds have horse-focused amenities like trails and facilities

  • The Big Paint Campground provides access to beautiful trails and river crossings, making it a great choice for those who enjoy exploring nature on horseback.
  • At the Money Creek & Vinegar Ridge, you can enjoy a variety of hiking trails that are also suitable for horseback riding, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • The Oak Ridge / Wet Bark Recreation Area features trails specifically designed for equestrian use, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for riders.

Tips for equestrian camping near Lansing, Iowa

  • Be prepared for primitive camping conditions at places like the Reno Horse Campground, where amenities are limited but the natural beauty is abundant.
  • Always check for self-registration options at campgrounds like Big Paint Campground to ensure you secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.
  • Bring your own firewood and supplies, as many campgrounds, including the Creekside Equestrian Campground, do not provide these amenities on-site.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Lansing, IA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Lansing, IA is Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest with a 4.5-star rating from 12 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Lansing, IA?

TheDyrt.com has all 9 equestrian camping locations near Lansing, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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