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 New Vienna, IA
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Yellow River State Forest offers equestrian camping at two dedicated campgrounds near New Vienna, Iowa. The Frontier Equestrian Campground and Creekside Equestrian Campground both provide camping options specifically designed for horse riders. Campsites include electric hookups with 30/50 amp service and water hookups for RVs, though showers and modern toilet facilities are not available at these locations. Both campgrounds allow tent and RV camping with pets permitted. Large, level sites accommodate horse trailers with sufficient space for both camping equipment and equine companions. The grounds feature areas for horses with designated spots to manage manure and trail access directly from the campgrounds.
Located approximately 40 miles northeast of New Vienna, the Yellow River equestrian campgrounds connect to an extensive trail system winding through the state forest's diverse terrain. Trails traverse wooded ridges, open meadows, and scenic river valleys, offering varied riding experiences for all skill levels. Fires are allowed at designated fire rings, and picnic tables are provided at each site. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak riding seasons in spring and fall when trail conditions are optimal. The campgrounds maintain a quiet atmosphere with no through traffic, creating a peaceful environment for both horses and riders. Campers must bring their own water for horses as drinking water is not available on site.
Best Equestrian Campgrounds near New Vienna (10)
1. 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 Availability2. South Lake Campground — Backbone State Park
from $16 - $36 / night
Check Availability3. Matsell Bridge Natural Area
"Nice quiet little primitive campground next to the Wapsipinicon River. Unfortunately, when I was there the last weekend of May, the gnats were bad, and the mosquitoes were just starting to gear up."
4. 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 Availability5. Wakpicada Natural Area
"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."
6. Wanatee Park (formerly Squaw Creek)
"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. "
"There are a variety of sites to choose from, nice trees, and a beautiful wildflower field to walk through."
from $23 - $33 / night
Check Availability7. 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 Availability8. 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 Availability9. Jackson County Iowa Fairgrounds
10. Albany Campground — Volga River State Recreation Area
from $14 - $26 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 26 min from Dubuque, IA
- 1 hr 4 min from Waterloo, IA
- 1 hr 10 min from Cedar Rapids, IA
- 1 hr 28 min from Iowa City, IA
Equestrian Camping Reviews near New Vienna, IA
57 Reviews of 10 New Vienna 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
- C
Carol M.
TravelerMatsell Bridge Natural Area
Beautiful and secluded, campground road closed
Off the beaten path, beautiful area but when we got there the road to the campground was closed, so we ended up parking for the night in the horse staging area instead.
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.
- 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.
- Max K.Traveler
Six 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.
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.
Guide to New Vienna
Yellow River State Forest encompasses over 8,500 acres of diverse terrain in northeastern Iowa, approximately 40 miles from New Vienna. The forest sits within the Driftless Area, characterized by deeply carved river valleys and limestone bluffs untouched by glaciers. Seasonal temperatures range from winter lows around 10°F to summer highs near 85°F, with frequent temperature fluctuations affecting trail conditions for equestrian camping near New Vienna.
What to do
Explore cave formations: Visit Wyalusing State Park's unique rock formations approximately 45 miles northeast of New Vienna. "There's some really nice trails and cool rock formations, couple this with the playground and nice bathrooms it makes for an ideal campground for families with younger children," notes Connor M. at Wyalusing State Park Campground.
Practice fly fishing techniques: Yellow River offers excellent trout streams stocked seasonally. "Came to learn more about Tenkara fly fishing. Had a ball... Easy access to water... Drink water and firewood are at the host A frame," writes Tori L. about Big Paint Campground.
Visit historic landmarks: The region includes significant cultural sites within short driving distance. "Close to Effigy Mounds & Pikes Peak! It has great trails & campsites & lots of geocaching!" recommends Holly M., describing day trip options from nearby camping areas.
What campers like
Spacious equestrian facilities: Horse camping areas provide ample room for trailers and mounts. "Very nice spacious sites for horses/riders including tie-ups, fire rings, tables at each site... Manure station with tools. Some trails are multiuser," explains James M. about Frontier Equestrian Campground.
Clean bathroom facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept sanitation areas. "Clean sites with some privacy. Great showers and clean bathrooms. There are lots of places to walk the dogs and great hiking," reports David W. about accommodations in the area.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple parks offer access to stocked trout streams and ponds. "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," shares Parker H. at Wakpicada Natural Area.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many forest areas have spotty connectivity. "I had no phone service. Campsites are well mown, have a picnic table and fire ring. Pit toilets. Easy access to water," notes Tori L. about camping in Yellow River State Forest.
Seasonal closures and conditions: Weather impacts campsite availability and trail conditions. "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," reports Tamsyn K.
Water access restrictions: Not all sites provide drinking water. "Fee was $12. First come first served basis from November through March... 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," explains Mary S. about seasonal services.
Tips for camping with families
Plan activities for rainy days: Weather can be unpredictable in northeastern Iowa. "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. at Matsell Bridge Natural Area.
Select appropriate hiking trails: Choose routes suitable for children's abilities. "We hiked on the famous Backbone trail - a really fun hike that isn't too incredibly long. The grounds were well kept and we had a phenomenal time," recommends Rachel H. about family adventures.
Prepare for insects: Bug populations vary by season. "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," advises Carol M.
Tips from RVers
Level your site carefully: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Our site was unlevel but was able to get the RV right with tri-levelers. The sites are very spacious with some shade, a fire ring, and picnic table provided," advises Clint G. at Wanatee Park.
Fill water tanks before parking: Some equestrian sites have limited hookups. "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," suggests Edward B. about South Lake Campground.
Monitor weather forecasts: Conditions affect site usability. "It was a Colder night as we camped in 30 degree weather and freezing rain came into our campground. This along with the wind made our situation feel pretty cold and we left early in April," reports Connor M. about early season camping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian
campsite near New Vienna, IA?
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near New Vienna, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near New Vienna, IA is Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park with a 4.4-star rating from 29 reviews.
What is the best site to find
equestrian camping near
New Vienna, IA?
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near New Vienna, IA?
TheDyrt.com has all 10 equestrian camping locations near New Vienna, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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