Yellow River State Forest equestrian camping draws riders from across the Midwest due to its extensive trail system. Located in northeast Iowa near La Farge, Wisconsin, the forest spans 8,500 acres with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,060 feet. The driftless region terrain features steep limestone bluffs and deep valleys, creating challenging and scenic riding conditions throughout the forest's trail network.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Yellow River State Forest provides direct trail access to stocked trout streams. "We went camping on a whim and headed to the state forest since dispersed camping is open. We backpacked to the quarry and found a large open area, perfect for multiple tents. The sandstone bluffs were in the background," notes Joanna B. from R.J.D. Memorial Hardwood State Forest.
Explore driftless region trails: The forest offers varied terrain for both novice and experienced riders. "There are many hiking trails, including a trail that goes on top of the bluff with views of the forest and of Wisconsin and the Mississippi River," explains a visitor to the region. The trail system connects multiple camping areas while providing scenic overlooks.
Kayaking nearby: The Kickapoo River offers paddling opportunities near the equestrian campgrounds. "We kayaked the Kickapoo river and stayed here for a night. We didn't reserve a site so the only spots left were the walk-in sites," shares Joyce B. from Wildcat Mountain State Park, which is located just across the state line from the horse campgrounds.
What campers like
Private equestrian sites: The horse-friendly campgrounds provide ample space between sites. "We stayed at the Big Paint Campground and had a nice time. The sites there are pretty spacious and level," reports Daphne D. from Big Paint Campground in Yellow River State Forest.
Well-maintained horse facilities: Horse owners appreciate the practical amenities at the equestrian campgrounds. "Very nice spacious sites for horses/riders including tie-ups, fire rings, tables at each site. Self registration, trails from camp including stream crossings in trout streams. Manure station with tools," writes James M. about Frontier Equestrian Campground.
Seasonal variety: The forest's camping areas offer distinctive experiences throughout the year. "We would love to come back and see the ice cave when it's cold enough for ice," notes Kristina K. who visited the region. Fall colors are particularly striking across the driftless landscape, with late September through mid-October offering peak viewing.
What you should know
Primitive facilities: Most horse campgrounds provide basic amenities. "Sites are primitive with tables, fire rings/grates, pit toilets, self registration, ice/wood available across road at visitors station. Cell service is possible at times," explains James M., detailing what to expect at Yellow River State Forest campgrounds.
Stream conditions: Water crossings on trails vary seasonally. "Clean, well kept sites with tie-ups, tables, fire rings, manure station and tools, multiuser trails including stream crossings. Trout fishing is good with seasonal stockings," reports James M. about Creekside Equestrian Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Proper food storage is essential when camping with horses. "It was recommended that we keep all food in our car, but we were drinking and too lazy/drunk to take back all our food to the car... so we woke up in the middle of the night to find some smart raccoon (or whatever it was) had enjoyed our breakfast," warns Joyce B. about wildlife encounters in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Multiuser trails: Families can enjoy both horseback riding and hiking on shared trails. "Very nice park. Great views. We were hoping for some more rock faces and challenging/longer distance hiking," writes Kristina K. about Wildcat Mountain State Park, which shares similar terrain with Yellow River State Forest.
Weather preparation: The driftless region experiences significant temperature variations. "We stayed for a week and the bathrooms showers and sites were some of the most clean I've been too, not to mention the landscape and variety of trails is very beautiful and well cared for," shares Sarah R. from Governor Dodge State Park, another equestrian-friendly area.
Pack extra supplies: Remote equestrian sites require thorough planning. "Came to learn more about Tenkara fly fishing. Had a ball. Visited the 3 lookouts including Iowa only Fire tower. Bird life is colorful. Lots of places to hike. I had no phone service," reports Tori L. about their experience in the region.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Horse trailers with living quarters need to consider site dimensions. "Great location for kayaking and hiking. The facilities are well maintained and clean. Camping sites are spacious and the stars at night is amazing," notes John B. about camping in the region.
Utility connections: Electric sites are available at designated horse campgrounds. "Every site has a picnic table and fire ring. Other than that, you can dispose of your trash and use a vault toilet. There's water at the information center (and a camp host site) outside the campground about 100 yards to the left," describes Mary S. about the basic amenities available at Yellow River State Forest.
Seasonal access: Road conditions affect horse trailer access during spring and fall. "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 navigating the terrain with larger vehicles in the driftless region.
