Yellow River State Forest offers several options for equestrian camping near Ferryville, Wisconsin. Located in Iowa's Driftless Region just across the Mississippi River from Wisconsin, the forest encompasses 8,500 acres of rugged terrain with elevation changes of 200 to 400 feet. The area receives approximately 36 inches of annual precipitation, creating lush vegetation and dependable water sources for horses throughout the trail system.
What to do
Trout fishing in stocked streams: Yellow River State Forest maintains regular trout stocking schedules in season. "Trout fishing is good with seasonal stockings," notes James M. about Creekside Equestrian Campground.
Explore forest lookout points: Visit the observation areas throughout Yellow River State Forest, including Iowa's only fire tower. "Visited the 3 lookouts including Iowa's only Fire tower. Bird life is colorful. Lots of places to hike. Scenery is lush," reports Tori L. after staying at Big Paint Campground.
Kayak nearby rivers: The Kickapoo River offers paddling opportunities near Wildcat Mountain State Park. "Great location for kayaking and hiking. Bring or rent kayaks to float the Kickapoo River. Ontario to bridge 5 was 2.5 hours," suggests John B.
What campers like
Limited cell service: Many equestrian campers appreciate disconnecting from technology while trail riding. "I had no phone service," notes Tori L. about Big Paint Campground, adding "Nights were quiet. Very relaxing."
Self-registration system: During off-peak seasons, campers appreciate the flexibility of first-come, first-served camping. Stuart O. shares about Big Paint: "Was very thankful to find a place to overnight in mid-November. Not a lot of free parking options in this part of Iowa... Fee was $12. First come first served basis from November through March."
Stream crossings on horseback: The multiuse trail system offers water features for horses and riders. "Clean, well kept sites with tie-ups, tables, fire rings, manure station and tools, multiuser trails including stream crossings," explains James M. about Frontier Equestrian Campground.
What you should know
Primitive facilities at some campgrounds: Facilities vary between camping areas. "This is a primitive campground. There were walk-in campsites available too which we decided we would try if/when we come back again since they are a bit more secluded and private," explains Sara S. about Big Paint Campground.
Seasonal availability: Off-season camping has different rules and amenities. "No water, electric, or dump station, so very much like a parking lot overnight from that perspective. However, the park is situated on the valley bottom of the Yellow River Forest with beautiful tall trees, and there are fire rings," shares Stuart O.
Varying site sizes: Some campgrounds offer more space between sites than others. Daphne D. explains, "We stayed at the Big Paint Campground and had a nice time. The sites there are pretty spacious and level, but they don't feel very private because this campground is essentially just an open field with line of sight to all other campsites... We drove through Little Paint Campground and many of those sites were pretty small and crowded."
Tips for camping with families
Bring equipment for creek exploration: Children enjoy investigating the trout streams that run through the forest. "The camp sites are primitive with tables, fire rings/grates, pit toilets, self registration, ice/wood available across road at visitors station," notes James M., highlighting amenities families will find useful.
Pack insect repellent: The humidity and proximity to water means insects can be present. "The bugs weren't too bad, no ticks, no critters and no road noise. It was very quiet and peaceful," shares Joanna B. about camping at Reno Horse Campground.
Use wagons for walk-in sites: Some campgrounds offer equipment to help transport gear. "We hiked a short distance into our site. We had to pass a grassy area that was always full of bunnies! The site was of good size, dark and quiet," reports Kay K. about Wildcat Mountain State Park.
Tips from RVers
Know your hookup needs: Electric and water hookups are available at equestrian campgrounds, but other facilities may be limited. At Money Creek & Vinegar Ridge, Scott S. notes: "The are 8 sites. There is no water or electricity. One pit toilet for the site. 5 miles from Rushford MN."
Check road conditions: Access roads in the Driftless Region can be steep and challenging. "We drove a truck so getting up/down the mountain wasn't a problem, but if you have a low car, the front end is going to get scraped at the bottom of the mountain," warns Joyce B. about Wildcat Mountain State Park.
Consider camping schedule: Many campgrounds in the area fill on weekends but remain available midweek. Michael V. observes about Money Creek, "Stayed here multiple times throughout the years, not much to it. Put toilets, usually slow except during hunting season. Camp sites are decent but primitive."
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