Governor Dodge State Park houses Wisconsin's largest equestrian campground with 20 miles of dedicated bridle trails separate from the main campground areas. The equestrian facilities welcome overnight riders from April through November, with winter camping available for non-equestrian use. Sites include manure disposal areas and hitching posts near designated camping spaces.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: White Mound County Campground connects to equestrian trails throughout the park, giving riders access to varying terrain. "This is a beautiful site... There was also a lake at the other end of the park. And equestrian trails and an equestrian camp, but it was closed because of mud," reports Amy G.
Swimming and paddling: Water activities provide cooling relief during summer visits to horse campgrounds near Belmont. "The lake is gorgeous and clean. The only downfall is the lake is spring-fed so it's a bit cold for swimming," notes Jaime L. about White Mound County Park.
Hiking with impressive views: Wyalusing State Park offers trails with elevation changes for hikers seeking scenery beyond the equestrian routes. "There are miles of great hiking trails and two trails for mountain biking. While the trails to Big and Little Sand caves are lovely, they are also heavily trafficked. We found that the Mississippi Ridge Trail to be a lovely walk in the woods," reports Josh F.
What campers like
Private camping spaces: Yellowstone Lake State Park provides secluded sites for those wanting privacy. "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," notes Michael S.
Clean facilities: Most equestrian campgrounds near Belmont maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. "Shower house/ restroom was warm & clean. Would stay here again," reports Fred S. about Twin Valley campground.
Winter camping options: Governor Dodge State Park Equestrian Campground remains open for off-season use when trails may be closed to horses. "It was very pretty with and without snow. Lots of wood to burn. Nice and quite," shares Jill K. who visited during winter.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Wind exposure varies significantly at campgrounds in southwestern Wisconsin. "The entire campground is situated on top of a bluff so this compounded our wind issue. I also need to note that the majority of these campgrounds don't have much privacy or lack it entirely," explains Connor M. at Wyalusing State Park.
Site selection strategy: Twin Valley Campground offers varied sites with different privacy levels. "Lower being better for larger RVs while upper has more shaded, cozier sites better for smaller rigs and tents," advises Brian O.
Wildlife awareness: Take precautions with food storage at equestrian campgrounds. "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," warns Sarah R. at Twin Valley.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Many equestrian campgrounds feature play areas for children. "We had a mixture of electric and non electric sites and all were very nice. The first weekend in October can sometimes be a little iffy weather wise, but we lucked out with pretty warm temperatures," reports Siobhan R. at Cox Hollow Campground.
Beach activities: Cox Hollow Campground offers swimming opportunities beyond horse activities. "Two good lakes for kayaking/canoeing/fishing/swimming. Lots of good hiking trails and they are working on a big improvement to the equestrian campground," shares Paul C.
Educational opportunities: Several parks near Belmont feature interpretive programs. "Lots of hiking trails and nature programs for all ages. If camping with a trailer or RV check to make sure you will get a campsite that is level enough for your vehicle," advises Jeanne M. at Yellowstone Lake.
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection for larger vehicles: Many equestrian sites accommodate larger trailers but require planning. "All sites are clean. They clean out fire pits after every weekend. Some sites were not the most level. All Roads are newly paved. New/Updated Dump station," reports Mike F. about camping at Lake Le-Aqua-Na.
Hookup considerations: Electric sites vary across parks in southwestern Wisconsin. "This is a state park so amenities are electric and the campgrounds do have public showers. Great little lakes for canoe, paddle board, kayak and fishing. A small concession is available and they do sell wood at the entrance," explains Dawn A. about Twin Valley Campground.
Road conditions: Access to horse camping facilities may require navigating challenging terrain. "Once you enter the park, there are some drastic hills to navigate. We didn't get to use the lake. It was refilling, via letting nature fill the lake back up," notes Mike F. about Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area.
Traveler
