Top Horse Camping near Darien, WI

Are you an equestrian lover who prefers a more rustic experience when you visit Darien? Finding a place to camp in Wisconsin with your horse is easier than ever. Search nearby equestrian campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Darien, WI (14)

    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut state park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut state park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut state park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut state park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut state park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut state park

    1. Rock Cut state park

    76 Reviews
    228 Photos
    257 Saves

    Located 10 miles northeast of Rockford, Rock Cut State Park is a 3,100-acre recreation area that encompasses two natural grasslands, a natural creek area, a nature preserve and 162-acre Pierce Lake. The area was designated a state park in 1957 as a way of preserving a local polititian’s favorite fishing hole. Prior to this, the park and wider area has a long history of Native American residence, including the Mascouten, the Winnegabo, and the Chippewa. With abundant water and preserved natural areas, the park now supports a thriving habitat for local birds, fish and wildlife. And with year-round camping and outdoor activities, you can experience the many seasonal sides the park has to offer. The campground at Rock Cut provides 270 sites that can accommodate tent campers, as well as RV and trailer campers up to 40 feet. Back-in sites are mostly grassy and equipped with picnic tables, cooking grills and electrical hookups. The campground provides water faucets, restrooms, showers, and a dump station; the water and dump station are not available November through April. One of the park’s multiuse trails runs right through the campground, and provides access to the larger trail network. Most of the campground’s facilities are ADA accessible. Dogs are permitted in the park, but must remain leashed; alcohol is not permitted. For recreating in temperate seasons, more than 40 miles of hiking, cycling and equestrian trails allow you to explore the park’s woodlands and prairies. These are ideal ways to observe some of the local birds, animals, and wildflowers. For fun on the water, paddle around in a canoe or kayak, take a dip at Olsen Beach, or go fishing for some of the lake’s largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, pike and walleye. Several picnic areas throughout the park are ideal for group or family gatherings. In the snowy season, many of the park’s trails are open to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with gear rentals available. For more family fun in the area, check out the nearby Volcano Falls Adventure Park.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $12 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground

    2. Pinewoods Campground

    21 Reviews
    91 Photos
    160 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $18 - $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine South Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine South Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine South Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine South Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine South Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine South Camping

    3. Kettle Moraine South Camping

    12 Reviews
    32 Photos
    120 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South - Chain O Lakes State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South - Chain O Lakes State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South - Chain O Lakes State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South - Chain O Lakes State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South - Chain O Lakes State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South - Chain O Lakes State Park

    4. Turner Lake South - Chain O Lakes State Park

    12 Reviews
    37 Photos
    47 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkhorn Campgrounds

    5. Elkhorn Campgrounds

    4 Reviews
    1 Photo
    15 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine Southern Unit

    6. Kettle Moraine Southern Unit

    8 Reviews
    25 Photos
    127 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $28 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground

    7. Paul Wolff Campground

    18 Reviews
    32 Photos
    144 Saves

    Within Burnidge Forest Preserve is Paul Wolff Campground. Paul Wolff Campground contains 89 improved, vehicle camp sites with 50-amp electrical service, water access, parking pad and fire ring. Improved camp sites are available to vehicle campers or tent campers. Each improved site is capable of handling a 50-foot motorhome. There are also 5 equestrian camp sites, where you may camp with your horse(s); and 10 primitive, wooded sites for tent camping only, away from the main camping area. Primitive sites do not have electric service and are available, weather permitting. All camp sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis; reservations are not taken.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents

    $12 - $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort

    8. Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort

    7 Reviews
    7 Photos
    133 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Southern Unit Horseriders Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Southern Unit Horseriders Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Southern Unit Horseriders Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Southern Unit Horseriders Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Southern Unit Horseriders Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Southern Unit Horseriders Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve

    10. Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve

    7 Reviews
    27 Photos
    50 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
Showing results 1-10 of 14 campgrounds

Recent Equestrian Reviews In Darien

173 Reviews of 14 Darien Campgrounds


  • Addison G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South - Chain O Lakes State Park
    Oct. 23, 2024

    Turner Lake South - Chain O Lakes State Park

    Awesome choice for campers on a budget

    These campsites are as low as $12/night!! One of my favorite spots to test new gear. Family friendly. There’s some small trails around as well that are beginner. There was electricity, however those sites are $25/night. Bathrooms could’ve been cleaner but we were grateful for the facility which doubled as a storm shelter. There’s indoor showers and bathrooms. There are also cabins at this campsite, not sure on pricing tho

  • Brian O.
    Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South - Chain O Lakes State Park
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Turner Lake South - Chain O Lakes State Park

    Fine camping in Northern Illinois

    We stayed in the Turner lake south loop, which has nice and private sites. This is in contrast to Honeysuckle hollow which is open and row after row of RV sites. Fox den and Prairie view loops are nice as well with mostly primitive sites. Be aware that the map on www.ExloreMoreIL,com(where you make your reservations) doesn't show where the restrooms are. In the Turner loop, the pit toilets are next to the path to the fishing pier, while the showers and full restrooms are between Turner and Fox den, there is a short path between sites 60& 61. Facilities are clean and well lit. Fire pits are slightly raised steel troughs with a heavy adjustable grill. This is a BIG park, the campgrounds are two miles from the front gate, and it's a drive to the main boat launch at Maple Grove, where you have access to the Fox River and Grass lake. This location has a huge parking lot for boat trailers, a very well stocked general store with fishing supplies, a cafe, boat rentals and good firewood. To get away from the crowd if you're a canoeist or kayaker it's nicer to leave the park and go back in at Oak Point picnic area and boat launch at the northern border. This will put you on the Fox river with developments to the north(including a bar& grill) or to the south which is all nature. I think the distance by boat between the two launches is 4-5 miles, but I'm not sure, Halfway there you'll meet up with the Goldfinch trail which is the shortest loop and the most diverse in term of flora. There are horse/ snowmobile trails, but no equestrian campground. Chain o' Lakes is one of the busiest waterways in Illinois, with motorboats everywhere in the height of the summer season. We canoe, and both times we stayed there it was October, so I can't tell you how crowded, but the vast number of picnic areas must be there for a reason. An odd thing is that you can hear a Steam Train whistle quite often, this is from Richardson's Adventure Farm in Spring Grove. We don't have kids so we went to Stade's Farm& Orchard(which is also large and kid friendly) because they have an orchard and vegetable market. One last thing, the gates close at 10:PM and there are tire shredders, you can leave but you can't get back in… unless you want to walk 2+ miles in the dark:)

  • Julia B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South - Chain O Lakes State Park
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Turner Lake South - Chain O Lakes State Park

    Nice lake

    The campsites are kinda small but not on top of each other. Had some raccoons at night even after we locked up everything in the car. The lake was very nice. We were able to kayak but be careful getting the kayaks in. Stairs down to the pier and the bottom of the lake is very mushy. The water was very clear and you could see the fish swim by. This loop is best for tent camping. The other loops are basically all rvs. The boat launch to the fox river was nice too but it does get busy.

  • Rebecca C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut state park
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Rock Cut state park

    Not well maintained

    We have a 30 amp trailer. When we got there, the electricity wasn't working. It was 93° on a Saturday. We called the Rangers and asked them to look at our site breaker since it kept tripping. They came, told us the park was old and not updated but then ultimately told us it was our trailer. We had to rent a motel for the night because we couldn't even pull out the slide or anything. This was after spending about 6 hours pulling apart all the electrical in the trailer. Went to camping world the next day just for us to use their plugs and it was fine. We thought maybe it was our cord so we bought a new one and still nothing. We called the Rangers again who came to look at it. Told us that the park was just so old that it probably couldn't keep up and moved us to a 50 amp sight. The 30 amp plug there would work for about 2 mins and then would keep tripping again. So we ended up having to go back to camping world to get an adapter to use the 50 amp. Wasted about 30 hours of our trip over their electrical not being updated and they knew that. Tried to reach out to get the first night reimbursed since we literally couldn't even stay there or use our trailer. Was told we had to come back the next day to speak to the head ranger, came back and he wasn't there again. Was told he would call us two different times and never got a call. Will never stay here again.

  • Addison G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground
    May. 30, 2024

    Pinewoods Campground

    Great access to Scuppernong Hikes

    Stayed in campsite directly connected to Green Trail of the Scuppernong Trailhead. Campsite was clean and quite private for being near people.

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut state park
    Mar. 14, 2024

    Rock Cut state park

    So close to home

    We camp here at least 5 times a year. It’s only 8 miles from our home. Many trails and not to expensive. They have sites with electric and sites just for tents. The only negative is no drinkable water. Tons of trails, fishing and even a swimming pond.

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Harnischfeger County Park
    Nov. 18, 2023

    Harnischfeger County Park

    A hidden gem

    We booked a week here in 2022 and ended up staying for two summers as camp hosts. The park is quiet, family orientated, and the park caretaker John is a national treasure. He’s been with the park since before it was county owned and knows every nook and cranny, critter and creature, and appreciates each and every guest who comes to the park. His one rule is to enjoy the park and let the staff know if you have any ideas to help to “keep it fresh”. Sites with letters are tent sites without water or electric, sites with numbers have water and 30 amp service, though there are plans to upgrade the sites to all have water and 50 amp service in the future. The last weekend of September is FallFest and often books a year in advance.

  • Justin G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut state park
    Oct. 22, 2023

    Rock Cut state park

    Fall Getaway

    A perfect spot for a weekend trip. We stayed in the White Oak area and used our tent. This location was close to the shower house (which could have been a little bit cleaner but still usable). There are plenty of scenic photo opportunities especially during the fall season.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Aug. 19, 2023

    Paul Wolff Campground

    Nice tent/bike camping

    Rode my bicycle for an overnight test run. I stayed in the primitive tent area. There are 5 wooded and 5 prairie sites. There is water and vault toilets by the tent area and flush toilets a 3 minute walk into the RV area.

    As noted in other reviews, I heard 3 trains between 10 pm and 6 am. Otherwise no other excessive noise issues. Tent area was very quiet.

    Staff was also very pleasant and helpful.

  • Grayson H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Jul. 28, 2023

    Paul Wolff Campground

    INCREDIBLE

    Amazing and friendly staff, beautiful grounds, and very well kept. There are mainly RVs and campers but we brought our little tent and were welcomed with open arms. The price is perfect whether you’re a resident of the area or not. There’s options for everyone. 10/10 would recommend!!!

  • Dan W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkhorn Campgrounds
    Jul. 17, 2023

    Elkhorn Campgrounds

    Trip #2- Post Malone

    Campsite 65- Rita, the mgr/owner, returned call to assist in selecting a site. The outer lanes had shade, while our site was in the middle open area. Easy access to electric and/or water. If unsure, contact office. Site, restrooms, and showers were clean. There are a lot of sites but still felt like there was ample space. Great location to visit Lake Geneva (~8mi.) or see a concert at Alpine Valley (~20 min). There’s a shuttle from the campground (outer sites near racetrack.). You pay for the shuttle through Lakeshore shuttle. This weekend had their annual Ribfest. Great food and music that you can walk to from your site (~2 min walk). Due to the fest, there was some late noise, but nothing obnoxious. Definitely recommend as a home base for area fun, music, shopping, and restaurants.

  • Dan W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut state park
    Jul. 17, 2023

    Rock Cut state park

    Trip #1 (Camper life begins)

    Campsite 201- spot was nice with plenty of space behind us along the woods. Camp store just 100 ft away. Park was very nice. Lake was great. Rented kayak for $20/hr. Has a dump station and water hookup just inside the entrance past the office. Area construction didn’t affect experience for camping, but did not allow you to hike around the entire lake. Overall, nice campground for a relaxing weekend.

  • Bob C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut state park
    Jul. 10, 2023

    Rock Cut state park

    Overnighter

    Our first trip out with our pop up was to the local state park. We were pleasantly surprised by how quiet it was. Bathrooms were meh. Some sites had good shade, but many had very little. Our site was okay, but friends across the road had no shade.

  • Darcy M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground
    Jul. 5, 2023

    Pinewoods Campground

    Clean, quiet and great hiking!

    I camped for two nights in Loop 1, site 21 (24-hour quiet enforced - no pets or speakers allowed). My site was pretty open, but still had nice shade and flat areas for my tent. I also hung a hammock and clothesline and had plenty of space to move about!

    Five stars for the camp hosts -- so friendly and they keep the campground very clean! You can also get firewood and ice from the camp hosts, so extra points for convenience!

    Hiking at Scuppernong and the Ice Age Trail are both accessible from the group camping area and/or near the showers, depending on which trails you are accessing. 

    Firepits were cleaned out daily, so no soggy ashes or smoky fires :)

    You could hear a bit of road noise, especially motorcycles and heavy trucks, but nothing crazy. There are also several hike-to sites that are nice as well.

  • John M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut state park
    May. 29, 2023

    Rock Cut state park

    State park close to Chicago

    This is a great state park not too far from Chicago. Has a lot of rv sites and dedicated tent site close to the lake.

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut state park
    May. 19, 2023

    Rock Cut state park

    Great site

    First time camping at Rock Cut State Park. Sites are spaced out well enough to provide privacy. Close to biking and hiking trails. Add bonus for EV owners, electricity is included in most sites so bring the travel charger.

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    May. 19, 2023

    Paul Wolff Campground

    Nice Suburban Campground

    The campground has nicely spaced sites. If others think these sites are close, they haven’t been to campground with close sites. There is a train next to the campground that runs once a day, but it is before 10pm. The rules say you cannot take any plants or animals whether dead or alive from the forest preserve and campground. There is a limit to the length of stay for all campers, except for the six campground attendants, of 14 days in a 21 day period.

  • Kytharah L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    May. 12, 2023

    Paul Wolff Campground

    Not for serious campers

    This is definitely more of a rest area than a campground. All the sites are pretty tightly packed, was awoken by a toddler screaming across from us like it was being murdered for about an hour at 6 am. Relaxing. They do have flush toilets as well as vaults that were both kept fairly clean. Firewood is a scam. Spent an hour collecting dead, dry, fallen wood OFF THE TRAIL(NOT out of the woods), only to have it taken because they sell wood. But the wood they DO sell was knotty and not dried well enough and couldn't get half of it to burn well at all. Basically, don't come here for an actual camping experience, because it will not be what you're expecting.

  • Joseph B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut state park
    Dec. 19, 2022

    Rock Cut state park

    Ok for an overnight stay

    The sites were separated pretty well.

    Our site was not very level, the gravel area (pad) was washed away and needed some repairs.

    Decent bathrooms, about 100yds from site.

  • Lesley R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettle Moraine South Camping
    Nov. 4, 2022

    Kettle Moraine South Camping

    Woodsy Wisconsin Hiking Secret

    A local favorite to hike during the weekend, relax and get back in touch with nature. All seasons have their own beauty and especially here. If you enjoy ooing and ahhing over fall color leaves, mushrooms, native plants and the wonders of nature, hiking here won’t disappoint.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Sep. 24, 2022

    Paul Wolff Campground

    Very Noisy

    This campground is well maintained. The tent sites are nicely arranged for privacy. There are a few wooded trails from the campground. Just don’t count on sleep unless you are in the habit of sleeping through trains, traffic and planes taking off at least once per hour from nearby airport. It was torture. Bathrooms are okay not great.

  • l
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut state park
    Aug. 17, 2022

    Rock Cut state park

    A good campsite

    The campsite were secluded from each other. It was cosy and surrounded by trees. The staff was friendly and attentive. Since we came in late and left early we unfortanly didn’t get to explore the surroundings.

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut state park
    Aug. 13, 2022

    Rock Cut state park

    Camped Here Several Times

    I have camped in the tent section and also used the 30 amp service with our Class B van.  Plenty of sites to choose from during the week but tends to get crowded on weekends.  There are some sites out in the open and some that are totally private and secluded.  It pays to drive through the camp ground and note a couple sites that you are interested in and then book your site at the entrance during walk in days.  Once you have a couple favorites you can then book in advance online.

    It does get congested and noisy on the weekends and holidays but can be a very peaceful and relaxing campground during the non-busy days.  There is obviously the lake, hiking and biking paths throughout the park, 2 camp stores, showers and plenty of restrooms scattered around the park.

    Pet friendly.



Guide to Darien

Camping near Darien, Wisconsin, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds nearby, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature, whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin.

What to do:

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. At Blackwell Family Campground, a reviewer said, "The toilets on the loops are vault and the ones by the main entrance are flush. Didn't use the showers on this trip but both facilities were well maintained and clean."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peaceful surroundings. A visitor at Pinewoods Campground mentioned, "Everyone was respectful of the rules."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Rock Cut State Park Campground offer activities for kids. One parent shared, "The ranger offers evening entertainment for the kiddos."

What you should know:

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids, like Rock Cut State Park Campground. One family shared, "We camp here at least 5 times a year."
  • Plan for Quiet Hours: Many campgrounds enforce quiet hours, so be mindful of noise. A camper at Blackwell Family Campground noted, "It gives it a very safe feel around here."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Some campgrounds may not have stores nearby. A visitor at Kettle Moraine State Forest - Ottawa Lake mentioned, "The beach was not clean and very hard to walk on, very rocky."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Electrical Hookups: Make sure your site has the right hookups. A reviewer at Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area said, "Electricity on site and water nearby."
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Popular RV spots can fill up fast. A camper at Big Foot Beach State Park Campground noted, "The campground was full for the weekend but emptied out on Sunday."
  • Bring a Good Adapter: If you're using a 30 amp RV, be ready with an adapter. A visitor at Rock Cut State Park Campground shared their struggle with electrical issues, saying, "Wasted about 30 hours of our trip over their electrical not being updated."

Camping around Darien, WI, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Darien, WI?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Darien, WI is Rock Cut state park with a 4-star rating from 76 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Darien, WI?

    TheDyrt.com has all 14 equestrian camping locations near Darien, WI, with real photos and reviews from campers.