Brushy Creek State Recreation Area provides equestrian camping options in central Iowa, about 72 miles north of Des Moines. The area sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation in the Des Moines Lobe landform region, characterized by gently rolling terrain formed by glacial activity. Winter temperatures typically range from 5°F to 25°F, while summer temperatures average between 60°F and 85°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Trail riding year-round: The extensive trail system accommodates riders of all skill levels with varying terrain through prairie and wooded areas. In the North Equestrian Campground, one camper noted, "The paved roads inside the campground were all asphalt so lots of bikers enjoying rides around the grounds. There was also a nice playground for the kids surrounded by a well maintained, large, grassy area" (North Equestrian Campground — Brushy Creek State Recreation Area).
Beach access for cooling off: During summer months, the beach area provides relief from heat after trail rides. At the Beach Campground, just a short drive from the equestrian areas, visitors appreciate that "the beach looked real nice, not too crowded for a hot July day" according to one reviewer who toured all three campgrounds.
Fishing opportunities: The lake and streams offer excellent fishing opportunities directly accessible from the equestrian campgrounds. One camper at Brushy Creek State Recreation Area Beach Campground mentioned it's a "Great place to camp if you like fishing, horseback riding or a nice place to get away."
What campers like
Off-season value: Many horse campers appreciate the affordable rates during spring and fall. A visitor to North Equestrian noted, "Open for off season camping. 14$/night for full hookups with pull thru RV sites."
Spacious sites: The North Equestrian Campground offers more room between sites than many other horse campgrounds near Thor, Iowa. A camper observed, "There were many empty sites because so many had no electric. It made for lots of nice open space."
Modern facilities: The shower houses and bathrooms receive consistent praise for cleanliness and maintenance. In the South Equestrian Campground at Brushy Creek State Recreation Area, one visitor mentioned, "Restrooms/showers and playgrounds are all still closed due to covid but there is still plenty to do! Walking, hiking and exploring. People are here camping with their horses but the campground is still nice and quiet."
What you should know
Campground differences: The South Equestrian Campground accommodates larger rigs better than North Equestrian. A camper staying at North Equestrian commented, "If you need 50 amps, you're going to want to head to the Beach Camp" indicating that power requirements might dictate your campground choice.
Hitching posts vs. corrals: While dedicated horse corrals aren't available, hitching posts are installed behind each site in both equestrian campgrounds. A visitor noted, "Hitching posts behind each site which we enjoyed seeing."
Seasonal considerations: For Webster County Kennedy Park Campground, located just 18 miles north of Brushy Creek, the camping season runs from April 15 to October 15, slightly shorter than Brushy Creek's April 1 to December 31 operating period. This makes Brushy Creek a better option for early spring and late fall equestrian camping trips.
Tips for camping with families
Beach Campground option: For families with both horse riders and non-riders, consider splitting your group between equestrian and regular campgrounds. "Beach had very little shade and was primarily families with younger children," noted one camper who toured all three campgrounds at Brushy Creek.
Playground access: The North Equestrian Campground features a playground surrounded by open grassy areas, making it more family-friendly than some other equestrian facilities. As one visitor observed, "There was also a nice playground for the kids surrounded by a well maintained, large, grassy area."
Tent options for budget camping: Ledges State Park Campground, about 56 miles from Thor, offers tent camping that might appeal to families wanting a different experience after horse camping. One camper advised, "If you want to tent camp, bring a cart or something to haul everything with. The parking lot is a LONG WAY from any private tent site."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for shade: North Equestrian Campground has limited afternoon shade in some areas. One RVer reported, "Unfortunately, we had no shade in the afternoon so weren't able to eat dinner outside or enjoy a fire in the evening. We are fortunate we camped in a 5th wheel so we could escape the heat."
Campground layout challenges: The South Equestrian Campground is better designed for larger rigs. A visitor to Pilot Knob State Park Campground noted how campground layout affects experience: "The layout of the campground would be challenging if all sites were occupied."
Off-season camping options: For RVers looking to extend their equestrian camping season, one visitor highlighted Brushy Creek's value: "Open for off season camping. 14$/night for full hookups with pull thru RV sites." This makes it one of the more affordable equestrian camping options with full hookups in central Iowa during spring and fall months.
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