Big Eau Pleine Park spans 1,450 acres of mixed hardwood forest on a peninsula jutting into the Big Eau Pleine Flowage. The area offers unique camping opportunities with direct access to water recreation and wooded trails. Several equestrian-friendly campgrounds can be found throughout Marathon County and surrounding areas, with sites available from May through October when trail conditions are optimal.
What to do
Trail riding with horses: Multiple campgrounds near Medford accommodate equestrian camping with dedicated sites and trail access. At Big Eau Pleine Park Campground, you can "hike, bike, or ride your horse on the 12 miles of scenic, wooded trails" according to camper Terri.
Fishing access: Lakes and waterways offer fishing opportunities within a short drive. Walter W. notes that Big Eau Pleine Park provides "water access, boat launches, swimming, fishing. Camping sites are very nice and level w majority elec. Wood available for fires an reasonable."
Disc golf: Several parks feature wooded courses. Nicole H. mentions that Big Eau Pleine Park has a disc golf course, though there's "a daily fee for disk golf course" to be aware of when planning activities.
Hiking through diverse terrain: The region features trails through various ecosystems. At Lake Wissota State Park Campground, Julie P. shares, "The hiking was amazing! We went on a 5-mile hike through fern and pine forests, prairie and grassland habitats, and an abandoned beaver pond."
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots with natural barriers. Donella L. describes Lake Wissota State Park as having a "Beautiful shaded campground with semi private sites" and notes there are "Lots of walking, biking and horse trails that are full of wild berries."
Convenient water access: Multiple campgrounds provide direct lake access. Matthew J. appreciated his stay at Lake Wissota: "Got in a canoe ride before the rain... Awesome park rangers. Did some local site seeing and I highly recommend lunch in Cornell at Dylan's Dairy."
Rustic accommodations: For those seeking a more primitive experience, Wedges Creek Hideaway offers unique options. Amy G. reports, "This is a sawmill that has it all - they run the mill when needed, but also have primitive cabins (where we stayed), full cabins with in house bath, electric RV/tent camping and more."
Wildlife viewing: The forested areas support diverse wildlife. Walter W. mentions that at Big Eau Pleine Park, there are "Trails for hiking and lots of wildlife. Kids will love it."
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary: Not all campgrounds offer full facilities. At Sailor Lake NF Campground, Lynette J. notes, "If you prefer a little rustic and secluded and don't mind vault toilets if you don't have your own, this is a perfect place."
Reservation requirements: Many horse campgrounds near Medford, Wisconsin require advance booking. At Big Eau Pleine Park, camper Lori S. mentions that "You now pay to dump your waste" and notes the "Group site is still a good deal. They've added electric for at least 8-10 campers."
Water quality concerns: Some lakes experience seasonal algae issues. Lori S. warns about Big Eau Pleine Park: "BUT the water quality suffers from green algae almost the entire season. Fishing can be good. No longer good for nocturnal carp due to water."
Enforcement of rules: Some campgrounds strictly enforce regulations. Allison shares her experience: "But the rangers and camp hosts will give you tickets for EVERYTHING. There's no guest parking anywhere near the campsites and they'll write you a ticket if you park by the bathrooms or have more than 2 cars in your site."
Tips for camping with families
Look for accessible sites: Some campgrounds offer specific options for those with mobility needs. Debra shares about Underdown Campground: "I camped on the handicap site as I am disabled. The site is near the bathroom which is good it's a nice big site. It was big enough for an camper and a tent."
Beach activities: Several parks include swimming areas appropriate for children. Donella L. notes that Lake Wissota has a "Nice beach that is a walkable distance from the sites" and mentions the park has "free yard games that can be checked out at the visitor center."
ATV trails: Some equestrian campgrounds near Medford also accommodate ATVs. Mary M. reports about Sailor Lake: "We expected some noise as this site is on an ATV trail. What we didn't expect was three hours of chainsawing on Saturday afternoon. Other than a few folks riding by on souped-up golf carts blasting 'The Devil Went Down to Georgia,' the ATV traffic was not an issue."
Consider noise levels: Some locations are better for quiet family time. Art S. mentions that at Sailor Lake, "Minimal cell signal encourages disconnecting for your stay," which can help families focus on outdoor activities together.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Many equestrian campgrounds have limitations on RV size and access. Wade W. notes that at Underdown Campground, there's "No running water, no bathrooms, no crowded plots. It's as primitive as can be. Very ample space except near the water."
Hookup availability: Electric options vary by location. Jenny B. reports about Big Eau Pleine Park: "The electric did not work on our site they were very helpful and getting us a different one I would go back again."
Dump station information: Not all sites offer full services. Walter W. mentions that Big Eau Pleine Park is "a County Park. The best for the price" but RVers should note Lori S.'s comment that "You now pay to dump your waste."
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