Governor Dodge State Park Equestrian Campground serves as a hub for horse enthusiasts visiting the Merrimac area. Located within 30 miles of Merrimac in the driftless region of Wisconsin, this area features rolling hills and wooded valleys with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,200 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing, affecting water access and camping conditions.
What to do
Explore glacial lakes: Cox Hollow Campground at Governor Dodge State Park offers access to two lakes perfect for water activities. "Two good lakes for kayaking/canoeing/fishing/swimming. Lots of good hiking trails and they are working on a big improvement to the equestrian campground," notes Paul C.
Hike wooded trails: The varied terrain provides hiking opportunities for different skill levels. "We did about 10mi of hiking. Buggy, but it's June in WI," reports a visitor at Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground. The park's trail system connects to additional hiking networks through prairie and forest.
Winter recreation: Seasonal activities include cross-country skiing when snow covers the ground. "It was very pretty with and without snow. Lots of wood to burn. Nice and quite," reports Jill K. about winter camping at Governor Dodge State Park Equestrian Campground.
Visit local attractions: The area surrounding Merrimac provides access to cultural sites. "Nearby are the kitschy House on the Rock and Frank Lloyd Wright's famed Taliesin home and studio," mentions Brian O. Horse riders can trailer to these attractions on day trips from equestrian campgrounds near Merrimac.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Many horse camping areas offer privacy from other campers. At White Mound County Campground, "The campsites are tucked away and private. There are bathrooms and a small playground. The lake is gorgeous and clean," according to Jaime L.
Year-round facilities: Unlike many Wisconsin campgrounds that close seasonally, some remain open through winter. "Stayed at the Twin Valley campground. Beautiful. Some nice Fall colors. Camped at a non-electric site. While other Wisconsin state parks have shut off most water & closed their shower houses, this park kept these amenities available this late in October; that was a nice surprise," notes Fred S. about Twin Valley Campground.
Natural features: The landscape includes unique geological formations. "Lost Canyon was BEAUTIFUL and had so many interesting geographical features. The trails behind the hike-in campsites also lead to some cliffs with some really amazing views," shares Mary M. about the trails accessible from Twin Valley Campground.
Equestrian access: Horse camping areas provide direct trail access. While the existing Governor Dodge equestrian area offers immediate trail entry, other equestrian campgrounds near Merrimac connect to wider trail networks requiring minimal trailering between camp and riding areas.
What you should know
Mosquito preparation: Insects can be intense in summer months. At Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground, a camper advises: "Realizing I was fighting a losing battle with the mosquitos, I retreated to my tent where it was quite comfortable to nap... I don't think it filled up. I think many of the locals know the bugs are bad and leave it for those of us from out of state to get eaten alive."
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife may approach campsites. "Beware of raccoons at this campground they are BOLD!" warns Jen L. about Governor Dodge State Park. Another camper adds: "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."
Seasonal limitations: Water access changes throughout the year for horses and humans alike. Beyond frozen spigots in winter, some parks reduce services in shoulder seasons. During freezing periods, plan to bring additional water for both yourself and your horses when visiting equestrian campgrounds near Merrimac.
Terrain challenges: The driftless region's topography creates uneven campsites. "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," advises Jeanne M. about Yellowstone Lake State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Several parks feature swimming areas for children. At Merry Mac's Campground, "Lake full of all kinds of floats the kids can climb and jump on. Clean pool to cool off in. Sand volleyball, ga ga ball, huge park," shares Tracy C.
Playground access: Many campgrounds include play structures for younger campers. "Perfect for a family get away - showers, flush toilets, lots of hiking (but trails aren't very challenging), swimming area and boat launch, playground. Basically a little bit of everything that makes it family friendly," notes Jen L.
Organized activities: Some campgrounds offer planned events for children. Merry Mac's provides "lots of planned activities on weekends. We stayed during water wars and the kids had a blast!!" according to a visitor.
Nature programs: Educational opportunities exist within some parks. Yellowstone Lake State Park features "lots of hiking trails and nature programs for all ages," making it suitable for families interested in learning about local ecology while camping near horse facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For those traveling with horses and living quarters trailers, choosing appropriate sites matters. "Lower [Twin Valley] being better for larger RVs while upper has more shaded, cozier sites better for smaller rigs and tents," advises Brian O.
Utility connections: Confirm hookup availability before arrival. "We only stayed a few nights, chose a pull thru site. The staff is great, the pool is brand new! They have a huge pond with inflatables. It's located right by Devils lake. Firewood for sale, great wifi, clean bathhouses/rooms," reports Michael D. about Merry Mac's Campground.
Bridge clearance: Watch for low clearances when traveling with tall rigs. "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," warns Kathy L. about Lake Kegonsa.
Dump station access: Not all equestrian campgrounds offer full sewer connections. While electric hookups are common in horse camping areas around Merrimac, dump stations may require a drive to central facilities rather than at individual sites. Check availability when booking, especially for extended stays.
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