Top Horse Camping near Lancaster, WI
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Best Equestrian Sites Near Lancaster, WI (10)
1. Wyalusing State Park
56 Reviews•253 Photos•320 SavesLocated on a high bluff overlooking the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers, a land of sculpted limestone and prehistoric Native American mounds can be found amid a swath of preserved hardwood forest. Translated “home of the warrior” in the language of the local Munsee–Delaware Indians, Wyalusing Hardwood Forest and the Wyalusing Mounds have received recognition as national natural landmarks and historic places. Adjacent to the forest, Wyalusing State Park is the perfect camping destination for a little outdoors R&R;, while discovering more about the natural and cultural history at the junction of Wisconsin’s and America’s greatest waterways. Visitors to Wyalusing State Park have two campgrounds to choose from. Wisconsin Ridge is set on a high bluff over the Wisconsin River, and Homestead is located in shady hardwood forest. Combined, they offer 109 campsites for tent and RV campers; there is also a large group campground. Both campgrounds provide flush and vault restrooms, shower facilities and drinking water. A portion of sites in each campground have electrical hookups for RVs, and there is a dump station near the Homestead site. The park also has several picnic areas, sports courts, and five reservable group picnic shelters. Firewood, camping supplies, ice and boat rentals are available at the concession stand. Seasonal campsite rates range from $15–$35/night; entrance to the park requires an additional fee. With nearly 24 miles of land and water trails in Wyalusing State Park, you’ll find ample opportunities for exploring riverside bluffs. Whether you like to walk, hike, ride, or paddle, there’s a trail just for you. Take an easy interpretive walk to learn about the park’s flora, fauna and geology; hike to see limestone caves, waterfalls, and a great view of the river; hop on your bike for a ride around the edge of a wooded grassland; or board a canoe or kayak and paddle through the Mississippi backwaters. Many of these trails are also open during the winter for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Other park activities include fishing, bird watching, and seasonal hunting.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$15 - $35 / night
2. Cox Hollow - Governor Dodge State Park
28 Reviews•144 Photos•105 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
3. Yellowstone Lake State Park
31 Reviews•96 Photos•108 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
4. Twin Valley - Governor Dodge State Park
19 Reviews•59 Photos•60 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
5. Six Pine - Backbone State Park
29 Reviews•114 Photos•107 SavesLocated about an hour’s drive north of Cedar Rapids, Backbone State Park is Iowa’s oldest state park. Established in 1920, it was named for a narrow limestone ridge—the Devil’s Backbone—along the Maquoketa River. At its founding, it was one of the largest state parks in the U.S. to offer camping, picnicking and hiking opportunities. Since that time, the park has expanded to 2,100 acres—almost double its original size—and offers even more opportunities for locals and visitors to get outdoors and enjoy some time in nature. Whether it’s wandering the woods, fishing on a quiet creek, lounging by the lake, or just napping in shade under a swinging hammock, there’s something for everyone here. The two campgrounds at Backbone State Park offers 125 campsites for tent and RV campers. The large South Lake Campground has nearly 100 sites, about half with electrical hookups, with flush toilets and showers. The smaller Six Pines Campground has 27 primitive tent sites with vault toilets. Most sites are open and grassy, but there are plenty of shade trees around. Both locations have drinking water faucets and trash receptacles; a dump station is located at the South Lake Campground. The park also offers a few 1- and 2-bedroom cabins for those visiting sans tent or RV; bedding not provided. Many sites and facilities are ADA accessible. A small store in the park sells bait, firewood and some concessions. Reservations are accepted, but some sites are held open for first-come, first-served campers. Seasonal campsite rates range from $6–$16/night; cabins range from $50–$100/night. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy at Backbone State Park. The park features several playgrounds, picnic areas, an outdoor auditorium, and a museum. More than 21 miles of multiuse trails explore the woods and waterways within the park. Taking a hike or ride is the best way to see some of the park’s natural rock features, including the Stone Arch, Balance Rock, and the Devil’s Backbone. In winter, many of these trails are open for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Swimming, paddling and boating can be enjoyed on Backbone Lake, with kayak and canoe rentals available from the park, and angers can fish for trout on the creek out of Richmond Springs. And rock climbers will find several challenging routes on the park’s many limestone cliffs.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
6. Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
10 Reviews•28 Photos•8 SavesYellow River State Forest in northeast Iowa is home to stunning views, beautiful woodlands, and meandering trout streams. Nestled in Iowa’s driftless area in Allamakee County, Yellow River offers numerous outdoor recreation opportunities including camping, equestrian riding, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, hunting, and more. Yellow River State Forest was first established in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corp and is home to Iowa’s only fire tower, built in 1963. Today, the forest is managed for numerous natural resource benefits and recreational opportunities.
Big Paint campgrounds are non-modern with vault toilets. Drinking water is available near the office complex. Advance campsite reservations are recommended and can be made through the park reservation system, and one-quarter of the campsites are available for self-registration on a first-come first-served basis.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
- Tents
$12 / night
7. Frontier Equestrian Campground — Yellow River State Forest
1 Review•8 Photos•1 SaveYellow River State Forest is a perfect place to explore some of Iowa's best hiking trails. Located in northeast Iowa in Allamakee County, the forest is part of the "driftless area" that escaped the glaciers during the most recent ice age. The forest consists of 8,900 acres of hardwood and coniferous forest and is comprised of 6 units.
The Paint Creek Unit is of primary interest to the recreationist, with well-kept camping areas, equestrian accommodations, fishing, hunting, and over 45 miles of trails for hiking, equestrian riding, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.
Frontier equestrian campgrounds are non-modern and have non-electric sites with hitching rails and vault toilets
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Equestrian
$16 / night
8. Creekside Equestrian Campground — Yellow River State Forest
1 Review•8 PhotosThe Creekside and Frontier equestrian campgrounds are non-modern and have non-electric sites with hitching rails and vault toilets. There is no drinking water located in the campgrounds at Yellow River State Forest but it is available at the A-frame information center located on State Forest Road near Big Paint Campground approximately four miles off Highway 76.
Yellow River State Forest is a perfect place to explore some of Iowa's best hiking trails. Located in northeast Iowa in Allamakee County, the forest is part of the "driftless area" that escaped the glaciers during the most recent ice age. The forest consists of 8,900 acres of hardwood and coniferous forest and is comprised of 6 units. The Paint Creek Unit is of primary interest to the recreationist, with well-kept camping areas, equestrian accommodations, fishing, hunting, and over 45 miles of trails for hiking, equestrian riding, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- RVs
- Tents
- Equestrian
$12 / night
9. White Mound County Campground
3 Reviews•22 Photos•49 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
10. Governor Dodge State Park Equestrian Campground — Governor Dodge State Park
Be the first to review!The equestrian campground at Governor Dodge State Park has 20 campsites, 18 with electric hook-ups. Each campsite includes a high-line hitching post with cable, and has a picnic table and fire ring. Drinking water, vault toilets, a horse washing station and manure bunkers are provided. Campers can use the shower building located in the Hickory Ridge group camp area. The equestrian campground is open from May 1 through Nov. 15.
The equestrian campground is located in the Hickory Ridge area of Governor Dodge State Park. The campground has easy access to the park's 22 miles of equestrian trails - including both the interior horse trail system and the 15-mile Driftless Horse Trail.
Campers must have a horse to camp at this site. Total driveway length 95'. Hunting occurs in the park along trails from Oct thru Dec and again in April.
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Equestrian
- Picnic Table
Recent Equestrian Reviews In Lancaster
170 Reviews of 10 Lancaster Campgrounds
- J
John B.
Traveler
Wyalusing State Park
Nice Park
Nice sites, trails and facilities. Stayed during the week in mid September. Beautiful sites overlooking the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers. Great hiking with clean bathrooms and toilets. Private with plenty of room from neighbors for our teardrop.
Sarah B.
Guide
Yellowstone Lake State Park
Def do not recommend for summer 2024!
I wanted so badly to love this campground experience, but just didn't. Site 19 was an easy walk-in that theoretically had nearby vault toilets, parking, and water.
Each site only had space for one car to park before walking in. Not a huge deal, but annoying as there were 2 of us who drove separate and we had to problem solve. When we got to the site I was shocked to see that what was labeled as a tent site had literally NO flat space to actually set up a tent. Spacious site, but fully sloped.
Also, what I would have loved to know, is that the vault toilets are closed because they are doing construction to build something new in that space. Construction that starts loudly each day at 7am. Honestly every site from about #35 down was affected by the noise because the construction is happening in the middle of the loop (and actually blocking some of the one-way road as well).
The park in general was okay. Per the usual, the pet areas were lacking. No beach at all, just grass covered in goose poop and one cut out on the raised shore between tall grasses and foliage where a dog could potentially jump in. Certainly nowhere for a human to enjoy the water with their pups unfortunately.
- Tori L.
ScoutBig Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
Dream stay.
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. Scenery is lush. I had no phone service. Campsites are well mown, have a picnic table and fire ring. Pit toilets. Easy access to water. Drink water and firewood are at the host A frame. There is no dump site. Everyone was very friendly. Helpful. Nights were quiet. Very relaxing.
loren S.GuideWyalusing State Park
Best views, great hiking, kayaking
Awesome campground with lots of hiking trails, and access to backwaters of Mississippi. Outside camp sites off gorgeous views of valley below.
Brian O.
LegendYellowstone Lake State Park
Nice alternative to Gov. Dodge or Devil's Lake (No rocks or vews though)
This is a very large state park located halfway between Mineral Point and New Glarus, both nice visiting destinations in their own right.
It has a large lake with three boat launches, a main one with a motor ramp, a canoe launch near the marshy end, and a fishing pier. There's also a boat rental place run by the nearby Cork Down Saloon. There are no boat-in or lake accessible campsites however.
The campground is up a long 30 degree hill across from the main launch and Beach/ main picnic area. The sites are more secluded from each other than you'll find at most parks , which is very nice. Beware that some sites are so secluded that they are bi-level. That is, parking pad and then step(s) down to the site. Be sure to check the photos provided when reserving. There are very nice walk-in sites, but no carts are provided.
the facilities are clean, but there's only one building with running water and showers. Water throughout has a mild iron taste.
There's no playground in the camp area, it's located in a picnic area near the canoe launch that you pass as you com in. Not walking distance, remember the big hill.
There's an Ice Cream/concession at the east end of the lake with limited hours. Beyond that is the Cork Down Saloon, just outside the secondary entrance to the park. It's your closest option to eat out. Also there is the private Chalet campground (see others for a review) Neither has a view of the lake as they are below the Dam.
A fun place to visit in the area is the Toy Train Barn Museum in Argyle, indoors if you have a rainy day.
Pat F.Guide
Six Pine - Backbone State Park
Hidden treasure
Stayed in march it was cold but very nice park , restrooms were nice shower house was closed and locked but the scenery on the hiking trail was amazing
Mike K.Scout
Twin Valley - Governor Dodge State Park
Rangers to not enforce the park rules!
wonderful park! Only problem is the park does not enforce their rules. Several sites had 3 to 4 cars/ trucks and as many as 15 people per site. And these were not the double sites which allow greater numbers. This was observered on single sites. Rules say max of 6 people and 2 cars. This creates very loud partying late at night. I asked at the ranger station about the rules and discussed what I saw what I experienced. Pretty much just blew me off! Reserving only one site and packing as many people as they can get away with does not create a very family friendly camping experience. Only leads to trouble. No Rangers in the Park after 8pm which to me is a safety issue! After 8pm the local police in Dodgeville take over. We were there 5 nights and only saw the police roll through 1 night! Too bad. Such a nice Park is going down hill!
- Jeannie D.Guide
Six Pine - Backbone State Park
Just stunning
This campground was large. The lake reminded me of a puzzle I did with my grandma as a kid. It was fall, and it was just gorgeous. There was a wedding the weekend we were there, but we were lucky to explore the tower the day prior. The nearby communities offer ameneties, which were needed as I sprained a knee hiking the backbone trail my third go. Absolutely adored the weekend we spent here. Wonderful neighbors, great spacious, level sites. I want to say we had electric only, and service was definitely spotty in most areas of camp. We used Verizon, and could not hulu.
Stacey N.
RangerWyalusing State Park
Amazing.
Fantastic site… what a view. Good firewood… but the place right at the entrance is fantastic…. Offering both hardwood and pine. The only drawback is a lack of staffing… not really surprising. Bathrooms not cleaned as often as other places, but, not a dealbreaker.
Tiffany K.GuideYellowstone Lake State Park
Family Camping near Lake
This campground offers sites with electricity for RVs but some of the sites seem pretty narrow to use RV awnings. We booked an RV site but decided to camp. The site had a picnic table and fire ring but since it was an RV spot not a lot of good tent placement options. There are numerous pit toilets to use. The park has hiking trails that are accessible from the campground. The lake has a walking trail, kayak ramps and boat ramps.
Chelsie W.Traveler
Cox Hollow - Governor Dodge State Park
Lovely Gov’ Dodge
We love to go kayaking here, the lakes are lovely. There are also lots of trails to explore. It can get busy, especially during the summer holidays. The beaches tend to be where the people are most dense. The campgrounds are pretty large but most sites offer good privacy. We stayed at Cox Hollow campground and enjoyed our stay. The stars were glorious. P.S. Bob’s Bitchin BBQ in Dodgeville is banging if you’re looking for a yum treat.
Dana K.GuideWyalusing State Park
Serene
Loved the camping and hiking. Beautiful in the fall
- HHpM R.Guide
Wyalusing State Park
A touch above average
Site layouts a little less private. Great hiking. Duck hunting season must have started at sunrise Oct 1 - sounded like the Civil War started. City lights of PDC visible all night from the site. Trains ran quite a bit but didn't bother us. Oak trees dropped acorns enough to have us reposition the rig for uninterrupted sleep. TMobile strong 5G signal
- Patty M.Guide
Wyalusing State Park
Beautiful campground on the bluffs
Campground sits high up on the bluffs so the views are beautiful. We stayed there in early spring so there wasn't much vegetation growing yet between sites but sites are well-spaced. Great hiking paths up and down the bluffs.
- Alex H.Traveler
Yellowstone Lake State Park
No Flat Spots
Very nice park. Well marked and maintained trails. A large lake with boat launch and beach area. Separate pet area.
We spent the weekend at site 101, which is a tent site. I wouldn't recommend this site. based on a quick walkaround, it seemed a bit smaller than other sites. That's not really a deal-breaker, but it didn't really have any flat spots to pitch the tent. We ended up pitching it up on the parking area, but it was still a bit slanted and we could feel the tire divot a little through the air mattresses. Aside from that, it was great. The site had a picnic table and fire ring that we used a lot. It was secluded from the surrounding sites.
We hiked the Windy Ridge trail and the Prairie Loop trail. both were well maintained and enjoyable trails. We also spent some time on the beach.
Michael V.RangerWyalusing State Park
Beautiful views of the driftless and river valley below
Stayed here back in 2017, will be going back hopefully soon. Beautiful area! Campground is very nice, with showers and restrooms. Camp sites are far enough away from neighbors that there is some privacy. Need a state park sticker to access. Illinois Minnesota and Iowa are all short drives away. We have also snow shoes here to the ice caves in the winter. Which was fun.
- NNicole K.Guide
Wyalusing State Park
Overall a really nice park!
We stayed in the Homestead Campground. You’re not competing for the views up on the ridge so the camp sites are spaced out more and have a little more privacy. Our site was nicely sized and the facilities were kept quite clean. Wyalusing has fantastic trails and incredible views. I would give it five stars, but our specific campsite was quite close to sites in the next loop and there was a lot of noise from those sites. I agree with other to come prepared for the bugs.
Art S.LegendCox Hollow - Governor Dodge State Park
Loud, party vibe
The campsites here are deep with lots of greenery. However we chose this site thinking that it was on the end. The loops curl around so there were campers around us. On the other side was a playground that had children enjoying it all day. While this is great for some, our reactive dog was quite distracted.
Upon arriving at the check in, there is still a couple miles to wind around until the campground, longer to get to twin lakes campground. The road is hilly too. It’s not a problem in our vehicle but it would be tiring on a bicycle. There are showers in the center of our loop. It could be expanded a bit - we had short lines for the restrooms. Water , garbage and recycling are available as well as a dump station.
It was raining when we arrived but we drove around to see the park. We hiked the short distance to Stephen’s Falls and was not impressed. Maybe they need more rain this year but all we saw was a splatter.
We saw folks who kept their kayaks and canoes locked up by the lake. The beach looked nice too. The other end of the park has an equestrian campground. We did see some horses riding the trail around the park.
The vibe here wasn’t for us. Various sites had music playing loud enough for us to hear. Trails from camp would be great. We ended up walking along the narrow road.
- rrita H.Traveler
Wyalusing State Park
Awesome view
Great site. Great view. Lots of mosquitoes so come prepared. This is a really nice campground.
Kelly M.GuideYellowstone Lake State Park
Love this State Park
Great beach, lots of space with picnic tables. Awesome concession stand- great ice cream. We enjoy this park. Lots of bat houses so the mosquitoes weren't a problem.
Josh G.TravelerSix Pine - Backbone State Park
Great park
Very nice great hiking couldn’t swim on our stay but nice beach canoe rentals small store bathrooms were very clean
Lyla W.GuideWyalusing State Park
Absolutely stunning
Third time here camping at this campground, almost any spot on the bluff over look is good, but if you want a good view, anything really in the 120s or 140s is nice. Stayed at 125 this time, it’s all gravel with little grass, we had a raccoon come within a foot of where we were sitting, he got scared when we turned on the light haha. I get LTE/5G service at the camp ground, I have us cellular. Overall, would definitely come here again.
- SStephGuide
Yellowstone Lake State Park
Great low key park!
Loved this quiet park! Camped at site 62 which is tent only. The site was huge and could easily fit 4 tents. Most sites had good privacy. Bathrooms could use a little work along with signage. However, I will absolutely be going back.
James M.LegendBig Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
Nice smaller primitive CG along Big Paint
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 .
- James M.Legend
Creekside Equestrian Campground — Yellow River State Forest
Equestrian CG along trout streams
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.
- James M.Legend
Frontier Equestrian Campground — Yellow River State Forest
Very nice equestrian CG near trout streams
In Yellow River State Forest,-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. Some trails are multiuser.
- kkevin M.Traveler
Twin Valley - Governor Dodge State Park
Terrible campsite
Made a reservation on line. $25. Added a conservation fee of $7. Taxes added to that. Pulled in on my motorcycles with my son and they charged us an additional $22 vehicle charge. This site cost us almost $60 for one night and the place was filthy. There were worms crawling around in the men’s urinal. The bathrooms were disgusting and there were signs all over complaining about how short staffed they were. Never go to this campground.
Guide to Lancaster
Camping near Lancaster, Wisconsin, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.
What to do
- Hiking: Explore the trails at Wyalusing State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Great hiking trails, overall a great place to stay," highlighting the park's scenic routes.
- Kayaking: The backwaters of the Mississippi River are perfect for kayaking. A visitor at Wyalusing noted, "Awesome campground with lots of hiking trails, and access to backwaters of Mississippi."
- Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground, offer fishing opportunities. One reviewer said, "The lake has a walking trail, kayak ramps and boat ramps," making it a great spot for anglers.
What campers like
- Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views at Wyalusing State Park Campground. A review stated, "Lovely morning sunrise and amazing sunsets."
- Clean Facilities: Many visitors appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A camper at Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground remarked, "Bathrooms were OK and showers not great, but the park and caves are so fun!"
- Quiet Atmosphere: Campers often enjoy the peaceful environment. One reviewer at Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground said, "Nice campground, quiet would come back!"
What you should know
- Reservation Fees: Be prepared for additional fees when booking. A camper at Twin Valley Campground mentioned, "This site cost us almost $60 for one night and the place was filthy."
- Wildlife: Expect to see raccoons and other wildlife. A visitor at Blue Mound State Park Campground noted, "There is a raccoon problem here. They were definitely snooping through my things."
- Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have spotty cell service. A camper at Backbone State Park said, "No Tmobile service for the most part, but that was fine for me."
Tips for camping with families
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. A reviewer at Governor Dodge State Park mentioned, "The campsites are big and fairly private, some areas are better for groups of families camping together."
- Plan for Noise: Some campgrounds can get loud, especially during busy weekends. A camper at Twin Valley Campground shared, "Several sites had 3 to 4 cars/trucks and as many as 15 people per site."
- Bring Outdoor Games: Keep kids entertained with outdoor games. A visitor at Cox Hollow Campground suggested, "There are lots of beautiful hiking trails including one that passes an old farm homestead."
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Dimensions: Make sure to check the dimensions of your site before booking. A reviewer at Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground noted, "Some sites are so secluded that they are bi-level."
- Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups if you need them. A camper at Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park mentioned, "The campground is up a long 30-degree hill across from the main launch."
- Dump Stations: Ensure the campground has a dump station available. A visitor at Pikes Peak State Park Campground said, "Dump station available here, no playground."
Camping around Lancaster, Wisconsin, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Lancaster, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Lancaster, WI is Wyalusing State Park with a 4.7-star rating from 56 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Lancaster, WI?
TheDyrt.com has all 10 equestrian camping locations near Lancaster, WI, with real photos and reviews from campers.