Equestrian camping options expand beyond Waubonsie State Park in the Missouri-Iowa border region. The Loess Hills landscape that characterizes this area features steep bluffs formed from wind-deposited silt during the last ice age. Most horse trails in the region follow ridgelines with elevation changes between 300-1200 feet, creating moderate to challenging riding conditions. Water access can be inconsistent at many trailheads during late summer months.
What to do
Trail riding on dedicated paths: Hackberry Hollow at Indian Cave State Park offers specialized riding areas. "There are about 20 miles to hike in this park and there is a special camping area for folks who bring horses," explains James D., who notes the trails have different difficulty levels.
Scenic overlook hikes: Take advantage of the region's unique topography by hiking to viewpoints. At Waubonsie State Park, Wayne H. recommends you "make sure you hike over to the sunset viewpoint that looks out to the West" for spectacular Missouri River views.
Seasonal events: Horse campgrounds near Watson, Missouri often host seasonal gatherings. At Indian Cave State Park, Shauna G. notes special events like "the Expo in the spring with Morel Mushroom hunting contest, the Haunted Hollow with haunted hay rack ride & campers decorated giving out trick or treats."
Multi-use trail systems: Several parks offer connected trail networks. Louisville State Recreation Area provides options for different activities, with Tony B. noting "There are several lakes to choose from to fish, or nonpower boats. There is a swimming area, beach, and play inflatables for kids in the water."
What campers like
Privacy between equestrian sites: Unlike some crowded campgrounds, Platte River State Park offers more secluded camping. Jared J. appreciates that "there are accommodations for every type of camper - cabins, RV, privative - hell they even have teepees!"
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards remain high at many horse camps. Jennifer M. found Waubonsie State Park offered "tent and rv, power and no power sites. Modern restrooms and showers are available. Trails are beautiful and quiet, with several scenic overlooks."
Trail variety: Most equestrian campgrounds provide diverse riding options. Tony B. reports after camping at Waubonsie, "We took one of the more scenic trails and took us over the top of some of those beautiful Loess Hills. I still believe it is a great hiking park."
Natural isolation: Many campers appreciate the remoteness. At Hackberry Hollow Campground, Donna H. notes you should "Gas up when you can! This beautiful state park is in the middle of the Nebraskan Ozarks, and is seriously one of the most beautiful state parks in the Midwest."
What you should know
Seasonal water access: Water availability fluctuates throughout the year. Michael M. warns at Hackberry Hollow that "a giant raccoon tried to get into my cooler 10 minutes after we turned out our lights for the night," highlighting why secure food storage is essential when water sources draw wildlife.
Train noise concerns: Several campgrounds experience railroad disruption. At Louisville State Recreation Area, campers report challenges with noise: "This has the capability to be a great little state park, but and a huge one at that is at night the trains go by about every 17 minutes," explains Justin R.
Site spacing variability: Horse campgrounds vary widely in layout. Danni A. found at Waubonsie that "We camped in the area without hookups, so we pretty much had that area to ourselves. The area with hookups was somewhat crowded."
Reservation requirements: Many equestrian sites fill quickly during peak seasons. Amy H. advises, "If you are wanting a site here it would be best to reserve one there were not a lot to choose from when we got there just about every spot was reserved."
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Mozingo Lake County RV Park provides family-friendly amenities. Laci P. shares, "This is a great kid friendly place. We always have a blast when we go. Kids absolutely love it, easy access to the water, quiet, and very nice!"
Level campsites: Finding flat areas for family tents matters. At Louisville State Recreation Area, Daniel B. found "each site has at least a picnic table and a fire pit. All tent sites are park and walk. If you want to have your car next to your picnic table, you need a padded spot."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Introduce children to nature observation. Michelle V. reports that Indian Cave State Park offers diverse environments: "We had a great time and enjoyed being surrounded by all the lovely trees. Staff were friendly and the park was clean."
Shower facilities: Family camping requires adequate facilities. Tony B. notes about Louisville, "Various restrooms in the park, and campsites are spaced fairly well apart. There also nature trails and some camping at river side of the Platte."
Tips for RVers
Hookup availability: Electric options vary between equestrian campgrounds. At Syracuse City Campground, Lynn J. reports, "We found 30 and 50 amp power pedestals. We stayed beside a pavilion with a water hydrant. The pavilion has several picnic tables and 20 amp outlets."
Site leveling: Terrain can challenge larger rigs. Crystal R. found Syracuse City to be "a city park next to the expo center nice and clean. Pull in next to any hook up. Donation box is $10."
Dump station access: Plan ahead for waste disposal. Tim D. advises at Syracuse, "It would be great if there was some brochure or site map at the location so you didn't feel like your were gonna ruin their well maintained lawn."
Site size limitations: Some equestrian areas restrict large trailers. At Pony Creek County Park, Tony B. notes, "This camp area is not much at all. The spaces are really small, and not really one view of the lake. There is a new visitor center right by the entrance of the camping area."
