Yellow River State Forest offers several equestrian camping options located approximately 45 miles northeast of Fayette, Iowa. The forest encompasses 8,500 acres of diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,000 feet above sea level. Trail systems wind through hardwood forests, open meadows, and valley bottoms with seasonal trout streams that influence camping conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Trail riding on 25+ miles of forest pathways: Yellow River State Forest's Frontier Equestrian Campground provides direct access to multi-user trails. "Very nice spacious sites for horses/riders including tie-ups, fire rings, tables at each site. Self registration, trails from camp including stream crossings in trout streams," notes James M.
Trout fishing in stocked streams: The cold-water streams at Big Paint Campground offer excellent fishing opportunities. "Stocked trout streams are an attraction for fishermen," Mary S. explains. A stocking calendar is available at the ranger station, with seasonal releases typically occurring from April through October.
Hiking to scenic lookout points: The Yellow River Forest contains Iowa's only fire tower and multiple elevated viewpoints. "Visited the 3 lookouts including Iowa only Fire tower. Bird life is colorful. Lots of places to hike. Scenery is lush," reports Tori L. Most hiking trails range from 1-5 miles in length with moderate difficulty ratings.
What campers like
Secluded woodland sites: The camping areas provide a sense of privacy despite their popularity. "The campground was pretty busy, but we felt comfortable with the seclusion of our sites," says Sara S. about Big Paint Campground. The walk-in sites offer additional isolation for those seeking a more remote experience.
Proximity to cultural attractions: Wyalusing State Park Campground across the Mississippi in Wisconsin complements the Yellow River experience. "A very nice park located close to the Iowa border. Close to Effigy Mounds & Pikes Peak!" notes Holly M. These archaeological and natural sites are within 20-30 minutes of the forest campgrounds.
River valley views: The bluff settings provide excellent vistas across the Mississippi River valley. "We visited in 2018 and the views are breathtaking! The sand caves are cool, lots of unique hiking features," reports Jennifer B. about nearby Wisconsin ridgetop camping that overlooks the same river system.
What you should know
Limited facilities at horse campgrounds: Creekside Equestrian Campground provides basic amenities focused on equestrian needs rather than camper comfort. "Clean, well kept sites with tie-ups, tables, fire rings, manure station and tools, multiuser trails including stream crossings," explains James M. There are no showers or flush toilets at the equestrian sites.
Seasonal considerations affect access: During wet periods, especially spring and after heavy rains, stream crossings may become difficult for horses. "It rained as we came in but nothing the park could have done to fix that," notes David B. about conditions in a nearby state park that experiences similar seasonal challenges.
Self-registration system: Most Yellow River campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis during off-peak seasons. "Fee was $12. First come first served basis from November through March," explains Stuart O. During summer weekends, reservations are strongly recommended as the horse campgrounds fill quickly with regional riders.
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate trail selection: When bringing children to horse campgrounds near Fayette, consider trail difficulty. "The Backbone trail - a really fun hike that isn't too incredibly long. The grounds were well kept and we had a phenomenal time," shares Rachel H. about a nearby trail system similar to those at Yellow River, which works well for family outings.
Educational opportunities: Backbone State Park offers complementary activities to Yellow River equestrian camping. "The nature program was great for our son who was 2 at the time," Jennifer B. mentions about programs similar to those offered seasonally at Yellow River visitor centers.
Safety considerations around horses: Keep children supervised around equestrian areas. "We found that the Mississippi Ridge Trail to be a lovely walk in the woods - without any people (and that was on Labor Day weekend!)" notes Josh F., highlighting how families can find quieter trails away from horse traffic.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for trailers: South Lake Campground offers insights for RVers heading to equestrian areas. "Great shady spots - register on line - clean bathrooms and showers - no full hook ups - must fill water tanks before parking and 30/50 power available," advises Edward B. These same considerations apply at Yellow River's equestrian campgrounds.
Water management: Horse owners need to plan for adequate water supplies. "No water, electric, or dump station, so very much like a parking lot overnight from that perspective," Stuart O. explains about off-season camping at Big Paint. The equestrian campgrounds require campers to bring water containers for horses as watering facilities are limited.
Seasonal timing for RVers: Fall offers optimal conditions for equestrian camping with cooler temperatures and fewer insects. "Going in knowing that there were pit toilets and no potable water, I did not have high expectations for this campsite. I was pleasantly surprised to find it very well maintained with spacious sites," remarks Tamsyn K. about the basic but functional facilities.
