Governor Dodge State Park Equestrian Campground includes several designated horse-friendly camping areas within 5,000+ wooded acres of land. The equestrian section sits about 7 miles from Blanchardville, Wisconsin in Dodgeville. The campground connects to more than 22 miles of bridle trails through diverse terrain with hardwood forests and rolling hills. Trail difficulty varies from gentle grades to steeper paths requiring moderate horse handling skills.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: Access miles of designated horse trails directly from the equestrian camping area. Riders at Governor Dodge State Park appreciate the variety of scenery. "Great campground for everything but big 5th wheelers and motorhomes. 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.
Swimming with horses: Take your horse to designated water access points along the trails for cooling off during summer rides. At Twin Valley Campground, campers note the park has "two lakes and some truly beautiful trails. It's best to get reservations early," according to Brian O.
Explore nearby attractions: While camping with your horses, plan day trips to nearby sites like House on the Rock and Taliesin. "Nearby are the kitschy House on the Rock and Frank Lloyd Wright's famed Taliesin home and studio," notes a visitor to Twin Valley Campground.
What campers like
Private sites: The equestrian camping area offers good separation between sites for horse trailers. At Cox Hollow Campground, another section of Governor Dodge State Park, campers appreciate that "sites are very nice. The first weekend in October can sometimes be a little iffy weather wise, but we lucked out with pretty warm temperatures."
Good water access: The park provides dependable water sources for horses throughout the trail system. "Great hiking with some beautiful scenery. They had a dog beach for them to swim in which was a huge plus!" reports Sarah B. about her experience at Cox Hollow.
Wildlife viewing: Many riders spot deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species along the trails. At Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground, just 5 miles from Blanchardville, visitors mention "Beautiful glacial area with rolling hills and wonderful views. Beautiful wooded campground with easy access to fishing & swimming. Lots of hiking trails and nature programs for all ages."
What you should know
Campsite reservations required: Book equestrian sites well in advance, especially for summer weekends and holidays. "Peak season reservations are a definite (weeks to months in advance for weekends)," warns Jen L. at Cox Hollow Campground.
Trail conditions vary seasonally: Spring trails can be muddy and some sections close after heavy rain. Call ahead to check current status and trail conditions.
Fire restrictions: All campfires must remain within designated fire rings, and firewood regulations apply. "Firewood for sale on-site. We also purchased wood from the trailer next to the Don Q inn for $5 an armful, but it was rather wet," notes a camper.
Wildlife awareness: Store feed securely as raccoons are common. "Beware of raccoons at this campground they are BOLD! Super fun campground with so much to do!" reports a Cox Hollow visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for weather changes: The region can experience significant temperature swings, even in summer. At White Mound County Campground, about 30 miles from Blanchardville, a camper noted: "Fees were incredibly reasonable for such a nice campground, and it was very quiet, even though there were lots of people enjoying this campground."
Pack for bugs: Mosquitoes are common in wooded areas, especially near water sources. Bring repellent with at least 25% DEET.
Consider non-riding activities: Not everyone in your group may ride horses. "Great hiking trails and nature programs for all ages," notes Jeanne M. about activities at Yellowstone Lake State Park.
Bring extra lighting: Equestrian campsites can be darker than standard sites. Battery or solar lanterns help with nighttime horse care.
Tips from RVers
Trailer parking logistics: Position your trailer strategically to maximize site space for your horses. Sites at Merry Mac's Campground, an alternative 25 miles from Blanchardville, offer "spacious sites! We only stayed a few nights, chose a pull thru site. The staff is great," shares Michael D.
Site selection for large rigs: Choose sites carefully if bringing a large horse trailer or RV. "If camping with a trailer or RV check to make sure you will get a campsite that is level enough for your vehicle. Lots of the campsites are uneven and larger vehicles may have issues getting level," advises Jeanne M.
Water management: Bring extra hoses to reach water spigots for filling horse troughs. Governor Dodge can require 50-100 feet of hose depending on your site location.
Generator restrictions: The campground limits generator use to specific hours. Plan accordingly for battery charging needs.
Traveler
