Yellow River State Forest contains several equestrian camping options approximately 50 miles from Strawberry Point, Iowa. The area sits within the Driftless Region, characterized by steep limestone bluffs and valleys untouched by glaciation. Winter camping remains available at select sites when temperatures drop below freezing, though water access becomes limited.
What to do
Hiking on varied terrain: Backbone State Park trails provide options for different skill levels. "We loved waking up in the morning and going for a walk along the many trails, seeing deer on the trail, and the lake," notes Larissa C. about her October visit.
Trout fishing in stocked streams: Yellow River Forest maintains regularly stocked trout streams that attract anglers. "Stocked trout streams are an attraction for fishermen," explains Mary S., who visited Big Paint Campground and included a photo of the stocking calendar to help other visitors plan.
Swimming in designated areas: Multiple parks offer swimming options during summer months. "We went camping at Backbone for a friend's wedding that was taking place at the park's lodge. It was gorgeous!" writes Larissa C., who enjoyed the park's recreational amenities alongside a special event.
What campers like
Natural lookout points: "Visited the 3 lookouts including Iowa's only fire tower," mentions Tori L. after staying at Big Paint Campground. The elevated vantage points provide views across the river valleys and forest canopy.
Multi-use trail systems: Wyalusing State Park across the state border offers additional options. "There are miles of great hiking trails and two trails for mountain biking. While the trails to Big and Little Sand caves are lovely, they are also heavily trafficked," advises Josh F.
River access for paddling: Many sites provide direct water access for canoes and kayaks. "This is a clean and well kept campground. There are great paved trails," mentions Heidi H. about George Wyth State Park, noting its accessibility to various outdoor activities.
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Services vary throughout the year at most campgrounds. "First come first served basis from November through March," states Stuart O. about winter camping at Big Paint Campground, noting the lack of water, electric, and dump stations during off-season periods.
Mosquito and insect preparation: Pack insect repellent, particularly for summer camping. "Unfortunately, when I was there the last weekend of May, the gnats were bad, and the mosquitoes were just starting to gear up," warns Carol M. about Matsell Bridge Natural Area.
Potential flooding concerns: Some campgrounds experience periodic 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," recounts Randi C. about her experience at Matsell Bridge.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible playground amenities: Some parks offer dedicated children's areas. "For little ones, there is a large sand playground area with slides and swings. There is a sand beach to swim, where they also rent kayaks & canoes," notes Steve R. about George Wyth State Park.
Educational program opportunities: Wanatee Park (formerly Squaw Creek) provides nature programs. "You can hear the highway, but overall the campground was very quiet," reports Colleen L., mentioning the "beautiful wildflower field to walk through."
Gentle trail options: Select parks feature beginner-friendly hiking routes. "I went with a group of entering sixth grade Girl Scouts on a weekend tent camping trip to this park. The campsites were simple to access and the grounds were easy to navigate," explains Rachel H. about her Backbone State Park experience.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Prepare leveling equipment for uneven sites. "Our site was unlevel but was able to get the RV right with tri-levelers," mentions Clint G. about his 9-night stay at Wanatee Park, where he appreciated the "very spacious" sites with "some shade, a fire ring, and picnic table provided."
Seasonal reservations: Book early for peak seasons at horse campgrounds near Strawberry Point. "Very nice spacious sites for horses/riders including tie-ups, fire rings, tables at each site," notes James M. about his experience at Frontier Campground in Yellow River State Forest, appreciating the equestrian amenities.
Water and power planning: Determine utility needs before arrival. "We camped at this park for 9 nights with W/E on site with a dump upon exit/entrance," states Clint G., noting that "the nearest grocery store was within 5 miles" of Wanatee Park.
Traveler
