Big Eau Pleine Park spans 1,450 acres of mixed hardwoods along a peninsula jutting into the Big Eau Pleine Flowage near Milladore, Wisconsin. The park features two separate camping units with 106 total sites, providing options for equestrian camping in a natural setting. Water quality in the flowage can vary seasonally, with summer months often seeing algae blooms that affect recreational activities.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Equestrian campers visiting the Milladore area can access designated horse-friendly trails at Big Eau Pleine Park Campground, where one visitor notes, "You can ride your horse on the 12 miles of scenic, wooded trails." The trails feature natural footing suitable for horse safety.
Disc golf course: The park maintains a wooded disc golf course accessible to campers. As Nicole H. mentions, "Heads up there is a daily fee for disk golf course," so budget accordingly if planning to play during your stay.
Water recreation: Despite seasonal water quality concerns, the flowage provides fishing opportunities. According to Lori S., "Fishing can be good. No longer good for nocturnal carp due to water." Multiple boat launches are available for water access.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Hartman Creek State Park Campground offers "pretty spacious sites, though they can range from very big to just big enough," according to Jimmy P. Sites provide ample shade and privacy, important for equestrian camping near Milladore, Wisconsin.
Handicap-accessible options: Big Eau Pleine Park includes dedicated accessible sites. Debra notes, "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. Site was clean and well kepted."
Quiet evenings: Campgrounds in the area generally maintain quiet hours after 10 PM. Jen E. reports, "We loved the quietness at night. Not entirely sure, but I believe there is a quite policy after 10pm. Gorgeous to look up and see the amazing stars at night."
What you should know
Water quality issues: The flowage experiences seasonal algae problems. According to Marathon County Dells of the Eau Claire Park visitor Raechel S., "Spring time the water is usually high and the breakup of ice happens it's amazing to see. It's crazy loud too!" Summer brings different conditions to area waterways.
Firewood regulations: Campgrounds in the area have specific firewood policies. As noted by Nicole H., "Firewood permits are required and only sold from 8am - 8pm. The permit lasts for one day and can only be purchased from one location."
Enforcement of rules: Some campers report strict rule enforcement. One visitor mentions, "The rangers and camp hosts will give you tickets for EVERYTHING. I was profiled for fitting the description of a vehicle they had an issue with the week prior and I got a $50 ticket!"
Tips for camping with families
Beach considerations: Wild West Campground & Corral provides horse-friendly family camping. Dave S. mentions, "Being able to watch the horses was very calming. We would recommend this place to others." The equestrian facilities create unique experiences for kids.
Evening activities: Bring stargazing equipment for nighttime entertainment. According to Jen E., the area offers "Gorgeous [views] to look up and see the amazing stars at night," making astronomy a worthwhile activity.
Bike-friendly options: Several parks offer family-friendly biking opportunities. Sara K. shares about Hartman Creek, "Enjoy bringing the family's bikes and love the single trail bike paths through the woods." These trails provide safe riding for various skill levels.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup variability: Lakeside Fire Campground & Waterpark offers full-service sites. Glenn T. notes, "Not our typical type of campground but absolutely no complaints. Very friendly atmosphere and more comfortable sized sites than we expected."
Cell service: Coverage varies by location and provider. For those requiring connectivity, Nicole H. reports, "For those requiring cell service, I had 3 bars LTE with Verizon at my site," which is important information for remote workers.
Site conditions: Walter W. mentions about Big Eau Pleine Park, "Camping sites are very nice and level w majority elec. Wood available for fires an reasonable." Level sites are particularly important for RVs and horse trailers when seeking equestrian camping options.
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