Stephens State Forest offers several primitive camping options for equestrian enthusiasts near Lucas, Iowa. The forest's Lucas Primitive Campground provides basic facilities for campers seeking a more rustic experience from April through December. Electric hookups with 30 and 50-amp service are available, along with sewer connections and toilet facilities. The forest's trail system accommodates horseback riding with routes that traverse wooded terrain.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Stephens State Forest Whitebreast Unit trails connect campers to wooded areas suitable for daily rides. The forest features multiple units with interconnected paths for riders of varying experience levels.
Swimming and fishing: Nine Eagles State Park Campground provides water recreation beyond trail rides. "Nice lake to swim and fish. Absolutely beautiful park and really nice trails," notes camper Tina T.
Explore nearby attractions: Madison County Fairground Campground serves as a convenient base for regional exploration. "Close to the Bridges, John Wayne sites, laundromat, and grocery stores," writes Richard R., highlighting access to Madison County's covered bridges and the John Wayne Birthplace Museum.
What campers like
Peaceful atmosphere: Many equestrian campers appreciate the tranquility at Elk Rock State Park. Bradley N. reports, "We stayed in the Elk Rock Equestrian campground and it was so peaceful and beautiful. The facilities were clean."
Wildlife viewing: Bird watching opportunities enhance the camping experience. "The best part about the trip was the eagles. We must have been there at just the right time, because lined all through the trees along the lakes edge were eagles upon eagles. I'd say we saw about 70 bald eagles perched in the trees," shares Jennifer M. about her experience at Elk Rock.
Well-maintained facilities: Double E LLC Camping provides private camping with electric hookups, water connections, and trash service. The site accommodates RVs with both 30 and 50-amp service for comfortable extended stays.
What you should know
Limited amenities at some sites: Not all campgrounds offer full services. At Stephens State Forest Lucas Unit, campers should prepare for primitive camping conditions despite having some hookups available.
Seasonal water access: Water availability varies by season at certain campgrounds. One Nine Eagles camper reported, "We arrived on Thursday evening. After a short debate we opted to pay the extra money for an electric site - based solely on the fact that the water wasn't turned on in the basic site loop."
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian campgrounds near Lucas require advance reservations, particularly during peak season from late spring through early fall. Sites with horse facilities fill quickly on weekends and holidays.
Tips for camping with families
Select campgrounds with play areas: Families benefit from campgrounds with designated recreation spaces. "Nice playground for the kids and a really cool equestrian section," notes Lauri C. about Nine Eagles State Park.
Check bathroom accessibility: Family camping requires convenient facilities. At Nine Eagles, the youth group campsite lacks immediate bathroom access. Matt S. explains, "There are not any bathroom facilities at the campsite which is why I give it four instead of five stars, but the park is beautiful and a peaceful place to camp."
Consider site layout: Look for level, grassy areas when tent camping with children. "Finding a place to pitch a tent in the electric loop was a challenge but we did find one that had enough level grass. Site 4 - close to the water spigot and a modest walk to the bathroom/showerhouse," advises Uhura G.
Tips from RVers
Long-term options available: For extended stays, some fairgrounds offer monthly rates. "Water, gas and Sewer was $15 daily, $105 weekly, and $420 monthly. Prices go up to $120 weekly when it gets cold," reports Richard R. about Madison County Fairground Campground.
Know fire restrictions: Several campgrounds prohibit ground fires. Madison County Fairground notes "No ground fires allowed," which affects cooking plans for RVers accustomed to campfire meals.
Site hookup verification: Confirm which utility connections are operational before arrival. Seasonal closures affect water systems at multiple campgrounds in the region, particularly during spring and late fall when freezing temperatures occur.
