Equestrian camping near Lone Tree, Iowa presents opportunities for trail riders seeking direct access to woodland paths and riverside routes. This region sits at the junction of several county parks spanning southeastern Iowa and western Illinois, with elevations averaging 600-700 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, while spring and fall can bring muddy conditions on trails after rainfall.
What to do
Fishing at local lakes: Lake Iowa County Park offers multiple fishing spots within easy access of camping areas. "The area around the lake and near by 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," notes Leslie P.
Mountain biking on singletrack: Wanatee Park (formerly Squaw Creek) connects campers to extensive bike trails. "The best thing about this campground is it's access to the squaw creek man bike single track. The sites are nice, and easy access to town if you forgot stuff," reports Kris P.
Paddling and canoeing: Big Hollow Recreation Area provides water recreation options beyond riding. "Fished here for a few years but camped here for the first time with my travel trailer this year. Nearby lake has a beach and a boat ramp for launching boats (whole lake is no wake zone) or kayaks," explains Sarah J.
Stargazing with telescopes: Amateur astronomers can utilize dedicated facilities at Big Hollow. "There's a gun range, horse farm, playground, bathrooms, and even a place to use a few telescopes to see the stars!" reports Lisa M.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Matsell Bridge Natural Area offers secluded primitive camping. "Nice quiet little primitive campground next to the Wapsipinicon River... Beautiful location, ranger close by, wood for sale just across the bridge, fire pits and picnic tables at every site," writes Carol M.
Clean facilities: Wanatee Park maintains excellent bathrooms and shower facilities. "Bathrooms are stationed without so it's never a far walk and the shower house was really nice. You can hear the highway, but overall the campground was very quiet," says Colleen L.
Wildlife viewing: Wakpicada Natural Area provides habitat for various animals. "Went when it was 110 degrees with humidity. Campsites right next to the pond and good tree cover made the experience fun anyway. Good bass and panfish fishing with quiet campgrounds that aren't right next to each other," reports Parker H.
What you should know
Flooding potential: River campgrounds can experience seasonal flooding. "The 4th of July weekend it was us, one other camper and the random one nighters. By the 3rd morning the river had risen to the point of flooding out our campsite. The DNR let us switch sites for our last night," shares Randi C. from Matsell Bridge.
Bugs can be intense: Bring appropriate protection, especially in late spring. "Unfortunately, when I was there the last weekend of May, the gnats were bad, and the mosquitoes were just starting to gear up. HOWEVER, take bug spray and enjoy the rustic peacefulness of this 'best kept secret,'" advises Carol M.
Humidity levels: Midwest summer camping means preparing for high humidity. "We were not adequately prepared for the humidity in August. Being from Colorado where we live at much higher altitudes & we didnt expect the humidity to affect us as it did. Not a bad thing, we were just used to 15% max and that weekend we saw 90% with 90 degrees," explains Clifton B.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area offers activities for children. "The main campground has electrical hookups, picnic benches, fire rings, modern restroom facilities including showers, a dump station, playground, and firewood for purchase," notes Jessica H.
Consider lake view sites: Some locations offer premium waterfront spots. "I would say if you can try and get sites, 67-70. They have beautiful views," recommends Leslie P. at Lake Iowa Park.
Check for hunting seasons: Be aware of seasonal hunting when hiking with children. "Dogs are allowed, but must be on leash in the campgrounds and on trails. However, they are allowed to run in the designated hunting areas... If you plan to hike during hunting season, it's a good idea to wear bright colors/blaze orange," advises Jessica H.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: Scott County Park's Southeast Corner Campground provides specialized facilities for horse owners. "The site offers a hard service to park on, picnic table, fire, pit, charcoal, grill, outhouse, horse tie up, and equestrian trailhead," explains James M.
Site leveling: Be prepared to level your rig at some locations. "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," shares Clint G. about Wanatee Park.
Primitive options for horse camping: For those seeking rustic equestrian camping near Lone Tree, prepare accordingly. "Tucked away in the southeast corner of Scott County Park – yes, the same park that already has more campgrounds than a camping catalog – lurks a little-known equestrian primitive campground," reports Stuart K., adding "The sites? Bare-bones, as expected. You're not here for 'glamping.' You're here for space to tie up your horse, throw up a tent and feel like you've traveled back to 1883."
