Yellow River State Forest offers multiple equestrian camping options within 30 miles of La Crescent, Minnesota. Located in the Driftless Area, these campgrounds sit among deep valleys with limestone bluffs reaching 400-600 feet above river bottoms. During summer months, temperatures typically range from 70-85°F, with cooler nights in the 50-60°F range.
What to do
Trout fishing access: At Big Paint Campground, anglers can fish directly from the campground. "Stocked trout streams are an attraction for fishermen" and the campground provides a stocking calendar for planning purposes. Some campers report "great river access" that makes fishing convenient.
Hiking diverse terrain: Multiple trail systems connect campgrounds to scenic overlooks and streams. "We enjoyed hiking despite the mosquitoes and humidity in August and were able to make a 5+ mile loop leaving from the campground," notes one visitor who tracked their journey through Yellow River State Forest.
Cave exploration: Forestville Mystery Cave State Park offers underground adventures for all ages. "The cave tours are well done" according to repeat visitors. Another camper recommends: "If you get the chance, go do the 1 hour walking tour of Mystery Cave - well worth the entry fee."
What campers like
Multi-use trails: Wildcat Mountain State Park receives praise for its accessibility. "We hiked a short distance into our site. We had to pass a grassy area that was always full of bunnies!" writes one camper. The park connects to river activities: "Great location for kayaking and hiking."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain good standards despite rural locations. At Maple Springs Campground, visitors note "immaculately maintained" grounds and "shower house is a quaint old farm house, it was very nice."
Wildlife viewing: Nature observation opportunities abound without bothersome insects at several locations. One camper at Maple Springs reported: "Beautiful spaces of various size, a river runs next to it and they have duck races." At Pietrek County Park, visitors enjoy "plenty of wildlife and could not hear the cars from the highway."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Pietrek County Park, visitors report minimal phone service. Another camper at Maple Springs notes: "There is WiFi there, but little to no phone service unless you have a cell booster."
Campsite spacing: Layout differences affect privacy between campgrounds. At Big Paint Campground, one visitor observed: "This campground is essentially just an open field with line of sight to all other campsites." Conversely, Wildcat Mountain sites are "spaced apart far enough so you weren't on top of the other campers."
Seasonal considerations: Campground availability and conditions change with seasons. A November visitor to Big Paint Campground stated: "Was very thankful to find a place to overnight in mid-November. No water, electric, or dump station, so very much like a parking lot overnight from that perspective."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Forestville Mystery Cave offers unique experiences for children. "We went to the caves...I think the cave was around 12-13 miles long and there was water and different formations. The floor was really wet so bring shoes you won't slip in."
Site selection: Choose campgrounds with amenities matching your family's needs. One family reported: "We stayed in loop 'C' with has bigger sites for RVs and offers electricity. Loops 'A' and 'B' have smaller sites (still big!!) and both of those loops are non-electric."
Pack for temperature swings: Cave visits require extra layers even in summer. "I highly recommend going to the caves. They are very intriguing but bring a jacket because it is quite cold down there."
Tips from RVers
Equestrian camping options: For those traveling with horses and RVs near La Crescent, Creekside Equestrian Campground offers specialized facilities. "Clean, well kept sites with tie-ups, tables, fire rings, manure station and tools, multiuser trails including stream crossings."
Electric service availability: Options vary between primitive and developed sites. At Yellow River State Forest, sites include "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."
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires caution with larger rigs. At Wildcat Mountain, one RVer noted: "The driveway leading to the campground is a bit daunting (especially if pulling a camper), but its well worth it!"
