Scott County Park's equestrian camping area offers basic amenities with a focus on trail access for horseback riders. Located 9 miles from Wheatland, Iowa, these primitive sites provide direct connections to riding trails throughout the park. The campground features pull-in spaces with hard surface parking for vehicles and horse trailers, with non-potable water available from nearby pumps. Sites include essential facilities specifically designed for equestrian campers needing access to trail systems.
What to do
Fishing at nearby lakes: Lake George at Loud Thunder Forest Preserve provides anglers with shoreline access and boat rentals. "CG has nice corral with day use and camping sites: shelter available, elect pull in sites fire rings, wood available in park, tables, trails Lake George for fishing, paddling, boat rental," notes James M.
Hiking through natural areas: Matsell Bridge Natural Area offers wooded trails along the Wapsipinicon River, approximately 32 miles north of Wheatland. "Beautiful location, ranger close by, wood for sale just across the bridge, fire pits and picnic tables at every site. Good for RV, trailer or tent camping... level ground and lots of shade," according to Carol M.
Mountain biking on singletrack: Trail systems near Wanatee Park (formerly Squaw Creek) provide dedicated mountain bike routes through varied terrain. "The best thing about this campground is it's access to the squaw creek man bike single track. The sites are nice, and easy access to town if you forgot stuff," writes Kris P.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campers appreciate the site layout at Morrison-Rockwood State Park, located about 30 miles south of Wheatland. "Our site was huge, flat and private - no trouble finding flat ground to pitch the tent," reports Amy R., while another camper notes "The sites were very well spaced apart."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness stands out as a major plus. "The (and I cannot emphasize this enough) CLEANEST campground bathrooms I've ever seen! I'm not squeamish and have been camping for years so my expectations for campground bathroom cleanliness is well calibrated but these bathrooms (even the vault toilets!) were amazingly clean!" exclaims Stacie H.
Equestrian accommodations: Horse owners value the specialized facilities at Loud Thunder Forest Preserve's equestrian campground, which includes dedicated parking for horse trailers and direct trail access. According to a review, the campground features "nice corral with day use and camping sites" and includes "elect pull in sites fire rings" specifically designed for equestrian needs.
What you should know
Flooding risks: Campgrounds near rivers can experience seasonal flooding that may affect site availability. At Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area, one camper reported: "We had hoped to camp at a primitive site, but learned the trail leading into the campground was under water, which also meant the river campground was closed as well."
Primitive vs. developed options: Equestrian camping near Wheatland ranges from very basic to sites with electrical hookups. Jackson County Fairgrounds offers "basics: water, electric, showers some shade, stores nearby" according to one review, while the more primitive options like Matsell Bridge provide "Primitive bathrooms, no showers or running water."
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally. Wanatee Park is open "April 15 to October 15" while others like Saulsbury Bridge operate from "April 15th to October 30th," making advance planning essential for late fall or early spring equestrian camping trips.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select sites near recreational facilities for easier family camping. At Morrison-Rockwood, "We had site 57 which is in a loop which goes around a playground. It was great for the kids who could go play and the sites in this loop provide plenty of space and privacy," says Ben W.
Water activities: Rockwood State Park offers family-friendly amenities including water recreation and treats. "Nice long trail, friendly people, and a cute little ice cream shop that was a lifesaver after a long hike," reports Briana B., making it a good option for families seeking diversions between trail rides.
Fishing opportunities with kids: Smaller, stocked ponds provide good fishing opportunities for children. At Wakpicada Natural Area, one camper reported: "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."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds in the area have uneven sites requiring leveling equipment. At Morrison-Rockwood, Amy W. noted: "The pad was uneven but we got our pup leveled out," while another RVer mentioned: "Our site was unlevel but was able to get the RV right with tri-levelers."
Electric-only hookups: Most equestrian camping options near Wheatland provide electricity without full hookups. At Wanatee Park, one RVer stated: "We camped at this park for 9 nights with W/E on site with a dump upon exit/entrance," indicating the need to plan for water conservation and scheduled dump station visits.
Site selection strategy: Research individual sites before booking as layout varies significantly. "Check your site before booking! One section of sites is like an open field? No trees and full view of others. But these surround a playground- also very nice," advises Amy W. about Morrison-Rockwood, a pattern common across regional campgrounds.
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