Yellow River State Forest offers extensive equestrian trails through diverse terrain about 45 miles from Lancaster, Wisconsin. The forest maintains two dedicated horse campgrounds with sites that include electric hookups and water access. Trail conditions vary seasonally with optimal riding from late spring through early fall when the ground is firm and waterway crossings are manageable.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: Governor Dodge State Park features scenic waterfall trails about 35 miles from Lancaster. "The Stevens Falls and Canyon Trails were the highlight of the trip- even in the rain! First you can explore the old spring house and read the informational signs about the family that used to farm there and other early settlers in the area," notes Siobhan R. about Cox Hollow Campground.
Trout fishing: Yellow River State Forest provides excellent fishing opportunities with regularly stocked streams. "Trout fishing is good with seasonal stockings," reports James M. about Creekside Equestrian Campground. The forest maintains a published stocking calendar for anglers planning fishing trips.
Observe wildlife: Wyalusing State Park, located where the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers meet, offers opportunities to see various bird species. "Bird life is colorful. Lots of places to hike. Scenery is lush," writes Tori L. about the natural environment at Big Paint Campground in the nearby Yellow River State Forest.
What campers like
Secluded walk-in sites: Governor Dodge State Park offers walk-in campsites for those seeking privacy. "Site 271 was just enough of a walk to feel remote but not so far that I couldn't carry all my stuff... The site I picked had lots of great options for hammock hanging!" shares Mary M. about Twin Valley Campground.
Clean facilities: Backbone State Park maintains well-kept shower facilities and campground amenities. "Great place to stay. Nice sites. Bathrooms clean!" reports Molly L. about the park's attention to maintenance, making it popular for weekend trips from Lancaster.
Spacious equestrian sites: Frontier Equestrian Campground features "very nice spacious sites for horses/riders including tie-ups, fire rings, tables at each site." James M. adds that there are "trails from camp including stream crossings in trout streams. Manure station with tools."
What you should know
Weather preparation: Fall and spring camping can bring variable conditions in this region. "We stayed for a week and the bathrooms showers and sites were some of the most clean I've been too... We would stay here again but probably opt for a slightly more warm month," explains Connor M. at Wyalusing State Park.
Wildlife awareness: Take precautions with food storage at area campgrounds. "The raccoons here are insanely bold, we had one frequently visit our site and get VERY close to us and in the evening ended up ripping thru the roof of our tent," warns Sarah R. about Governor Dodge State Park. Store food in vehicles or hard-sided containers.
Reservation timing: Reserve equestrian sites well in advance during peak season. "Peak season reservations are a definite (weeks to months in advance for weekends)," advises Jen L. Most horse camping areas in the region fill quickly from May through October.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Yellowstone Lake State Park offers facilities specifically for children. "Campsites were good and bathrooms were clean enough. What really makes this campground is the lake. There's a nice beach for kids and adults to relax at and lots of kayaks on the water," says Ryan K. about Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground.
Educational opportunities: Visit the nature centers at several parks for ranger-led programs. "The nature program was great for our son who was 2 at the time," shares Jennifer B. about Wyalusing State Park, noting the sand caves and unique hiking features that engage children.
Swimming areas: Look for designated swimming beaches with gentle shorelines. "Perfect for a family get away - showers, flush toilets, lots of hiking (but trails aren't very challenging), swimming area and boat launch, playground," reports Jen L. about Governor Dodge State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Check campground maps carefully for level sites when bringing larger rigs. "Lots of the campsites are uneven and larger vehicles may have issues getting level," cautions Jeanne M. about Yellowstone Lake State Park.
Winter camping options: Some equestrian campgrounds remain open year-round with limited services. "It was very pretty with and without snow. Lots of wood to burn. Nice and quite," notes Jill K. about her experience at Governor Dodge State Park Equestrian Campground during the off-season.
Electric hookup distribution: Not all sites at horse campgrounds offer the same amenities. "Lower being better for larger RVs while upper has more shaded, cozier sites better for smaller rigs and tents," explains Brian O. about the layout at Twin Valley Campground, information useful for planning horse camping trips with RVs.
Traveler
