Jeannie B.
Guide
GuideBig Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
Beautiful Park
Many different trails for hiking, biking or equestrian. Camp sites are mostly grass. Beautiful park
Equestrian Camping near McGregor, IA
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Yellow River State Forest offers two equestrian campgrounds near McGregor, Iowa. Frontier Equestrian Campground and Creekside Equestrian Campground both provide dedicated sites for horse owners with tie-ups at each campsite, fire rings, and picnic tables. The campgrounds include manure disposal stations with tools for cleanup. Sites are spacious and primarily grass surfaces, accommodating both horses and riders comfortably. Trail riders note the well-maintained horse facilities and organized layout of the camping areas. Both campgrounds require reservations and feature water hookups, electric hookups with 30-amp and 50-amp options, and sewer hookups for RVs.
The equestrian trail system connects directly to the campgrounds, offering multi-user paths with stream crossings through trout waters. Riders access miles of diverse terrain suitable for various experience levels. Yellow River State Forest trails accommodate hiking, biking, and horseback riding, with some routes designated specifically for equestrian use. The forest setting provides natural water access for horses at stream crossings throughout the trail network. Many trails feature scenic views, including lookout points and Iowa's only fire tower. Camping with horses is available year-round, though first-come, first-served policies apply from November through March when the $12 camping fee is collected through self-registration. The surrounding area offers additional riding opportunities with nearby Reno Horse Campground in R.J.D. Memorial Hardwood State Forest in Minnesota providing primitive camping options for horse enthusiasts.
Best Equestrian Campgrounds near McGregor (7)
1. Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
"Many different trails for hiking, biking or equestrian. Camp sites are mostly grass. Beautiful park"
"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."
from $16 / night
Check Availability2. Frontier Equestrian Campground — Yellow River State Forest
"In Yellow River State Forest,-Very nice spacious sites for horses/riders including tie-ups, fire rings, tables at each site."
from $20 / night
Check Availability3. Creekside Equestrian Campground — Yellow River State Forest
"Clean, well kept sites with tie-ups, tables, fire rings, manure station and tools, multiuser trails including stream crossings. Trout fishing is good with seasonal stockings."
from $20 / night
Check Availability4. Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park
"There are miles of trails. Is hiking your thing? What about equestrian? Maybe mountain bike trails? You can even take the family for a nice leisurely walk on the easier trails."
"Backbone State Park is unlike any other place in Iowa, having geological features uncommon in Iowa. There are two campgrounds."
from $16 - $25 / night
Check Availability5. South Lake Campground — Backbone State Park
from $16 - $36 / night
Check Availability6. Reno Horse Campground — R.J.D. Memorial Hardwood State Forest
"There are many hiking trails, including a trail that goes on top of the bluff with views of the forest and of Wisconsin and the Mississippi River."
7. Albany Campground — Volga River State Recreation Area
from $14 - $26 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 1 hr 12 min from Dubuque, IA
- 1 hr 15 min from La Crosse, WI
- 1 hr 32 min from Waterloo, IA
- 1 hr 43 min from Cedar Rapids, IA
Equestrian Camping Reviews near McGregor, IA
46 Reviews of 7 McGregor Campgrounds
- Jeannie B.Guide
Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park
Many things to do here
Backbone is a very diverse area. There are miles of trails. Is hiking your thing? What about equestrian? Maybe mountain bike trails? You can even take the family for a nice leisurely walk on the easier trails. Exploring is fun at this park because there is so much to see. The Trout stream was busy the weekend we were there. You might even want to play a round of Gulf. We have solar on our trailer so we stayed in the Six Pines campground and it was beautiful. We listened to the night animals for hours.
Mary S.
LegendBig 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
Kerry M.
RangerSix Pines Campground — Backbone State Park
Two campgrounds to enjoy at Backbone State Park
Backbone State Park is unlike any other place in Iowa, having geological features uncommon in Iowa.
There are two campgrounds. I have camped in both:
Modern Campground: This is a large, modern campground with all of the standard amenities found in a modern campground… electric hookups, flush toilets, water. I have camped here twice, both times in my travel trailer. Overall, it is a nice campground with decent space in between campers, however, I tend to avoid it during the busier summer and fall colors seasons.
Primitive Campground: This is my favorite at Backbone for camping, especially in the autumn after the leaves have fallen off of the trees. As this campground is non-electric, there are not many people camping after it turns colder. I have spent many nights there alone in the primitive campground, watching RVs pull in and then leave after realizing that it has no hookups.
Nearby trout fishing: Backbone is home to one of the more popular trout streams in Iowa. The fishing is easy as most of the fish are stocked (April-October). Still, it is an enjoyable fishing trip as the stream itself is mostly rocks and gravel, with several deep holes. The water is cold and clear.
Other activities: Hiking is very popular in Backbone. I have also seen rock climbing and rappelling. There are some nice spots away from the trout stream for wading and a little swimming. Backbone State Park also has a small lake with a swimming area and boat rentals during the summer. Several nice cabins are available for those who do not want to camp.
Stuart O.GuideBig Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
Good late season option for the self-contained camper
Was very thankful to find a place to overnight in mid-November. Not a lot of free parking options in this part of Iowa. No water, electric, or dump station, so very much like a parking lot overnight from that perspective. However, the park is situated on the valley bottom of the Yellow River Forest with beautiful tall trees, and there are fire rings. Fee was $12. First come first served basis from November through March.
James M.LegendFrontier Equestrian Campground — Yellow River State Forest
Very nice equestrian CG near trout streams
In Yellow River State Forest,-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. Manure station with tools. Some trails are multiuser.
- Tori L.
ScoutBig Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
Dream stay.
Came to learn more about Tenkara fly fishing. Had a ball. Visited the 3 lookouts including Iowa only Fire tower. Bird life is colorful. Lots of places to hike. Scenery is lush. I had no phone service. Campsites are well mown, have a picnic table and fire ring. Pit toilets. Easy access to water. Drink water and firewood are at the host A frame. There is no dump site. Everyone was very friendly. Helpful. Nights were quiet. Very relaxing.
- Max K.
TravelerSix Pines Campground — Backbone State Park
Great bathroom and hiking, awful lake
We stayed here two nights. That was plenty, although it's not really the park's fault. The lake was super gross, with excessive floating moss (probably a weather issue) and EXCESSIVE goose poop everywhere. The beach was basically unusable, with goose bombs everywhere. It was better when we kayaked, but still gross.
So why the five stars? 1. The bathrooms were fantastic. 2. The camp site was really nice and plenty of room. 3. The hiking was superb. Felt like we were not in Iowa. 4. The driving through the park was also really great and I will go back this fall to look at leaves. 5. There is a cave you can explore on your own. We did. It's awesome. It's muddy. It's super cool. 6. There are some decent bouldering spots. 7. Cheap, huge bundles of firewood at park entrance. 8. Really friendly at the camp store. 9. Close to Strawberry Point. Go to town to Clayton's Pharmacy and get an old fashioned soda. Fantastic. 10. Close to Edgewood and the Edgewood Locker. Go visit and stock up on meat on the way home.
- Ashley D.Traveler
Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park
Fun for the whole family
This campground has many things to do. This place has tent, rv and cabin camping, you can choose modern or non modern camping. Fun activities include fishing, swimming in a lake and also ground fed springs, boat rentals on the lake, hiking also horse trails, rock climbing, caves, playgrounds shelters for events and parties. I am sure there are even more things to do that I didnt have the time for.
Guide to McGregor
Yellow River State Forest and surrounding areas offer a diverse range of equestrian camping options near McGregor, Iowa. The forest is situated within the Driftless Area, a region untouched by glaciers during the last ice age, resulting in unique topography with steep limestone bluffs and deep valleys. The elevation changes throughout the area create diverse trail experiences with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,100 feet above sea level.
What to do
Trail riding access points: Yellow River State Forest trails connect directly to both Frontier Equestrian Campground and Creekside Equestrian Campground, offering riders immediate access to forest paths. "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. about Frontier Equestrian Campground.
Trout fishing opportunities: The forest contains several stocked trout streams accessible to campers. "Trout fishing is good with seasonal stockings," mentions James M. about Creekside Equestrian Campground. Fishing enthusiasts can check stocking schedules posted at information boards near campground entrances.
Winter activities: The forest remains open for equestrian camping during winter months, though with limited services. "Fee was $12. First come first served basis from November through March," reports Stuart O. about camping at Big Paint Campground during the off-season.
What campers like
Natural water features: Riders appreciate the numerous stream crossings throughout the trail system. "Clean, well kept sites with tie-ups, tables, fire rings, manure station and tools, multiuser trails including stream crossings," notes James M. about Creekside Equestrian Campground.
Trail quality and maintenance: The multi-use trail system receives regular praise for its upkeep and varied terrain. "Many different trails for hiking, biking or equestrian. Camp sites are mostly grass. Beautiful park," mentions Jeannie B. about Big Paint Campground.
Lookout points: The forest contains several designated viewpoints worth visiting. "We visited the 3 lookouts including Iowa only Fire tower. Bird life is colorful. Lots of places to hike. Scenery is lush," shares Tori L. from her experience at Big Paint Campground.
What you should know
Primitive facilities: Most equestrian campgrounds offer basic amenities without modern conveniences. "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," explains Tamsyn K. about Big Paint Campground.
Reservation periods: Yellow River State Forest operates on different reservation systems depending on the season. From April through October, reservations are recommended. During winter months, sites switch to first-come, first-served basis with self-registration.
Limited connectivity: Cell service throughout the forest is inconsistent. "I had no phone service," notes Tori L. about her stay at Big Paint Campground. Visitors should download maps in advance or pick up paper maps at the forest headquarters.
Tips for camping with families
Nearby attractions: The area around McGregor offers several family-friendly destinations within short driving distance. "Nearby Harper's Ferry is a neat little town, so be sure to visit there!" recommends Daphne D. after staying at Big Paint Campground.
Open camping areas: For families with younger children, some campgrounds offer more open layouts. "The sites there are pretty spacious and level, but they don't feel very private because this campground is essentially just an open field with line of sight to all other campsites," explains Daphne D. about Big Paint Campground.
Educational opportunities: The forest provides natural learning experiences. "Went camping at Backbone for a friend's wedding that was taking place at the park's lodge. While most of the wedding guests stayed in town, we opted to camp, during October. It was gorgeous! We loved waking up in the morning and going for a walk along the many trails, seeing deer on the trail, and the lake," shares Larissa C. about her experience at Backbone State Park.
Tips from RVers
Water and waste management: RVers should arrive with full water tanks as potable water access is limited. "No water, electric, or dump station, so very much like a parking lot overnight from that perspective," notes Stuart O. about late-season camping at Big Paint Campground.
Seasonal considerations: RV campers should be aware of potential weather impacts. "We drove through Little Paint Campground and many of those sites were pretty small and crowded, but again, the river access and the views made it a pleasant stay," shares Daphne D., highlighting the importance of selecting appropriate sites based on RV size and season.
Alternative camping options: For those seeking more amenities, nearby Wyalusing State Park Campground across the Mississippi in Wisconsin offers additional facilities. "Great clean park. Many spots to have picnic. Great hiking trails," mentions Dillan K., providing an alternative for equestrian campers seeking more developed facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near McGregor, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near McGregor, IA is Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest with a 4.5-star rating from 12 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 7 equestrian camping locations near McGregor, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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