Brushy Creek State Recreation Area offers three distinctive campgrounds about 30 miles south of Webster City, Iowa. The 6,500-acre park sits in a transition zone between prairie and deciduous forest, with elevations ranging from 975 to 1,200 feet. The recreation area operates seasonally with main facilities open April 1 through December 31, though limited off-season camping continues at reduced rates.
What to do
Trail exploration: The extensive trail network at Brushy Creek includes over 45 miles of multi-use paths suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. "Great campground with lots of trails to hike and great fishing," notes reviewer Derrick W. about North Equestrian Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Brushy Creek Lake spans 690 acres with multiple fishing access points. "I was surprised to see a school of muskie while fishing, but it appeared that they were spawning at the time. If you go camping in May, make sure to bring a slightly heavier fishing pole to handle the musky. They're worth it," advises Brandon C. about his experience at North Equestrian Campground.
Beach recreation: The dedicated swimming beach provides summer water access with nearby changing facilities. "Great new beach area and fishing," mentions Megan H. about her visit to North Equestrian Campground. The beach area generally remains uncrowded even on warm summer days according to visitor reports.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: The campgrounds feature clean bathrooms and shower facilities that receive regular maintenance. "Great for tent camping, very spacious and grassy sites, clean, grill/fire pit was really very nice. Very clean and modern bathrooms, easy access to water. Hiking trails were well maintained," reports Randi about North Equestrian Campground.
Quieter camping options: The equestrian campgrounds offer peaceful settings compared to standard campgrounds. "This was a super cool state park, great amenities, level and spacious RV spots. We loved it and will go back if we're in that area again," shares Adam about South Equestrian Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: The relative distance from urban centers provides excellent night sky viewing. "The Stars Were So Bright! This little nugget is laid out on a vast prairie. Most sites have younger trees that provide some shade. This is not the big wooded type park. Very little light pollution," notes Staci I. about her experience at North Equestrian Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: The park operates fully from April through December with limited services during winter months. "Open for off season camping. 14$/night for full hookups with pull thru RV sites," reports Anna C. about North Equestrian Campground.
Shade availability: Many sites lack adequate afternoon shade which can affect comfort during summer visits. "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, we would have left after the first night otherwise," warns Stephanie B. about her stay at North Equestrian Campground.
Horse facilities: While designated for equestrian use, these campgrounds welcome non-horse campers too. "First time camping at south campground. Loving it so far! 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," shares Andrea H. about South Equestrian Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: The swimming area provides a family-friendly water option with shallow entry points. "Great place to camp if you like fishing, horseback riding or a nice place to get away," mentions Taylor A. about Beach Campground.
Playground access: The North Equestrian Campground includes a playground surrounded by open grass areas. "There was also a nice playground for the kids surrounded by a well maintained, large, grassy area," notes Stephanie B. about the facilities at North Equestrian Campground.
Kid-friendly camp selections: Consider which campground best fits your family needs. "Beach had very little shade and was primarily families with younger children. The beach looked real nice, not too crowded for a hot, July day," observes Stephanie B. comparing the campground options at Brushy Creek.
Tips from RVers
Electrical capacity planning: Different campgrounds offer varying electrical hookup options. "I like beach camp, but I LOVE north equestrian camp. Wish the boxes accommodated my rig. It's easy in spring or fall, we can get by with 30 amps. If you need 50 amps, you're going to want to head to the Beach Camp," advises Jeannie D. about North Equestrian Campground.
Road quality: The interior roads at the horse campgrounds near Webster City provide excellent access for larger vehicles. "The roads inside the campground were all asphalt so lots of bikers enjoying rides around the grounds," mentions Stephanie B. about North Equestrian Campground, noting the paved surface quality.
Alternative options: Other parks near Webster City offer different RV accommodations worth considering. "Iowa county parks are amazing. They pour money into them and it really shows. Clean, I mean immaculate. Only spent two days there but could make it a two week vacation and never get tired of it. Okay, let's address the dump station, I've never been to one so thought out and efficient," reports Jim S. about his experience at Jester County Park.
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