Governor Dodge State Park Equestrian Campground is one of several horse campgrounds near Lodi, Wisconsin situated in the unglaciated Driftless Area of southwestern Wisconsin. The area features ridges and valleys carved by ancient rivers with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,200 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 50-60°F at night, creating comfortable camping conditions for riders and their horses.
What to do
Trail rides in varied terrain: The equestrian trails at Yellowstone Lake State Park connect to a larger trail system through glacial hills. "Great park for water activities and hiking! Also had nice shower facilities," notes Phillip J., who visited in 2024.
Swimming with horses: Several parks offer designated pet swimming areas where horses can cool off after rides. At Lake Kegonsa State Park, campers mention "a lake & pet swim area" with trails accessible right from the campground.
Exploring historical sites: Within 20 minutes of many horse campgrounds, riders can find historic Amish communities and restored prairie homesteads. "Located in gorgeous Amish country, the drive back to the interstate to head north again was incredibly enjoyable," says Amy G. about her stay at White Mound County Campground.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: The equestrian campgrounds in the region typically feature good tree coverage. At Twin Valley Campground, Paul N. shared, "it still leaves you surrounded by trees, and secluded from (seeing) other campers. The site has a gorgeous view as it butts up to a valley with a steep drop off."
Clean facilities: Riders appreciate the well-maintained shower facilities after dusty trail rides. "Clean bathrooms/showers," reports Fred S., who stayed at Twin Valley campground in October. "While other Wisconsin state parks have shut off most water & closed their shower houses, this park kept these amenities available this late in October."
Winter options: Some equestrian campgrounds near Lodi remain open year-round for cold-weather riding experiences. A visitor to Governor Dodge State Park Equestrian Campground noted, "It was very pretty with and without snow. Lots of wood to burn. Nice and quiet."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Horse campgrounds near Lodi, Wisconsin typically require advance booking through the Wisconsin DNR reservation system. At Sleepy Dragon Campground, a recent visitor shared, "I needed to leave the campground I was in and started calling around for openings at private campgrounds...I called and was shocked to hear they still had openings for that weekend."
Wildlife awareness: Raccoons are extremely active in the area and require careful food storage. "PSA (obvi) keep your food and garbage locked up and away from your site. The raccoons here are insanely bold," warns Sarah R. from Governor Dodge State Park.
Water access: Most equestrian campgrounds provide drinking water for horses, though water pressure can vary seasonally. "Water is available at drinking fountains/spigots around the campsite. One I tried had barely a trickle but the other one had plenty of water pressure," notes Mary M.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Many equestrian campgrounds include playgrounds and easy trails for family hikes. "Super fun campground with so much to do! Lots of games for all up by lodge. DJ dance party on the deck at night. Lake full of all kinds of floats the kids can climb and jump on," shares Tracy C. about Merry Mac's Campground.
Budget considerations: Factor in additional fees beyond basic campsite rates when planning family horse camping trips. "4 stars simply because everything has a price and it's not included in the total," mentions Cherie J. about Merry Mac's yurt accommodations and recreational amenities.
Off-horse entertainment: For non-riders in the family, several campgrounds offer fishing, swimming, and organized activities. "Lots of planned activities on weekends. We stayed during water wars and the kids had a blast!" adds Tracy C. about weekend programming.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose level sites carefully when bringing horse trailers and RVs to equestrian campgrounds. As Jeanne M. advises about camping at Yellowstone Lake, "If camping with a trailer or RV check to make sure you will get a campsite that is level enough for your vehicle. Lots of the campsites are uneven and larger vehicles may have issues getting level."
Low clearance warnings: Watch for low-hanging branches and bridge clearances when driving large rigs to horse camping areas. Kathy L. cautions about Lake Kegonsa, "Major CAUTION for RVs: there is an oak tree near entry with low branches and it took the AC off our friend's fifth wheel. There is also a low hanging overpass and it took the roofs off TWO fifth wheels while we were staying there."
Hookup availability: Most equestrian campgrounds offer electric hookups, but water and sewer connections vary by location. Michael D. notes about Merry Mac's, "We only stayed a few nights, chose a pull thru site. Great wifi, clean bathhouses/rooms."
Traveler
