Governor Dodge State Park offers a network of equestrian trails that connect to scenic viewpoints through 5,000 acres of Wisconsin's driftless area. The terrain features rock formations, prairie openings, and wooded valleys with over 25 miles of dedicated bridle paths. Equestrian camping facilities remain open from April through November, with peak trail conditions occurring in early summer and autumn months.
What to do
Swimming and fishing at two lakes: Cox Hollow and Twin Valley campgrounds at Governor Dodge State Park provide access to two lakes with sandy beaches. "Great state park for a family camping vacation, tons of stuff to do. Lakes, trails, kayaking, boating, paddle boarding, fishing," notes a camper. Both lakes permit non-motorized watercraft and maintain designated swimming areas.
Explore waterfall trails: The Lost Canyon and Stephens Falls trails offer some of the most scenic hiking in the region. "Lost Canyon was BEAUTIFUL and had so many interesting geographical features. The trails behind the hike-in campsites also lead to some cliffs with some really amazing views," shares one visitor to Twin Valley Campground.
Miniature golf and disc golf: Harnischfeger County Park maintains a 9-hole mini golf course that costs $1 per person. "The campground has alot of great amenities. Theirs a mini gulf course that we had alot of fun with. Their is also a great hiking trail if you like that," reports a camper who visited the park.
What campers like
Private, wooded campsites: The equestrian campgrounds near Arlington, Wisconsin offer secluded sites with natural screening. At Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground, one camper noted, "We camped in a 'walk in' spot about 200 feet from where you can park the car. It is very secluded and tree cover allows you to be hidden from all others."
Accessibility to water recreation: Many campgrounds feature direct lake access for paddling and fishing. "The lake is gorgeous and clean. The only downfall is the lake is spring-fed so it's a bit cold for swimming," writes a visitor to White Mound County Campground.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently mention the quality of bathrooms and showers. "Clean facilities, friendly staff, and great trails. No bugs!" notes a recent visitor to Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground. Most state park campgrounds provide shower facilities with hot water and clean restrooms.
What you should know
Raccoon encounters: Several campgrounds report bold wildlife, particularly raccoons. "Beware of raccoons at this campground they are BOLD!" warns a camper at Governor Dodge State Park. Another visitor cautions, "The raccoons here and insanely bold, we had one frequently visit our site and get VERY close to us and in the evening ended up ripping thru the roof of our tent." Store food securely and never feed wildlife.
Reservation requirements: Wisconsin state parks require advance booking for equestrian campsites, especially during peak season. "Peak season reservations are a definite (weeks to months in advance for weekends)," advises a camper.
Water and electric availability: Services vary significantly between campgrounds. At Merry Mac's Campground, "They have a huge pond with inflatables. It's located right by Devils lake. Firewood for sale, great wifi, clean bathhouses/rooms," notes a visitor. Check site-specific amenities when booking.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Family-friendly campgrounds offer structured programs and dedicated play areas. "Super fun campground with so much to do! Lots of games for all up by lodge. DJ dance party on the deck at night. Lake full of all kinds of floats the kids can climb and jump on," writes a visitor to Merry Mac's Campground.
Site selection: Choose sites near restrooms for convenience with children. "I spent 1 night on the way to SD. My site was right next to camp hosts, and very near showers which were clean and lots of hot water," notes a camper at Lake Kegonsa State Park.
Weather preparation: Wisconsin weather can change rapidly, even during summer months. "We got quite a bit of rain on Saturday, but none of the sites had issues with flooding like we experienced in the spring at site 269," shares a camper at Governor Dodge State Park.
Tips from RVers
Low clearance warnings: Some parks have height restrictions or obstacles. A Lake Kegonsa visitor warns, "Major CAUTION for RVs: there is an oak tree near entry with low branches and it took the AC off our friend's fifth wheel. There is also a low hanging overpass and it took the roofs off TWO fifth wheels while we were staying there."
Leveling challenges: Many campsites in the driftless region require leveling blocks. "Not all 'driveways' are level which, unfortunately, we discovered in site 33. We slept with our heads lower than our feet in our camper van," notes a visitor to Governor Dodge State Park.
Site size considerations: Twin Valley Campground at Governor Dodge State Park Equestrian Campground offers varying site configurations. "Lower being better for larger RVs while upper has more shaded, cozier sites better for smaller rigs and tents," advises an RV camper.
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