Equestrian camping options near Nekoosa, Wisconsin accommodate riders with trails and facilities throughout the central Wisconsin region. Marathon County's park system offers horse-friendly sites within mixed hardwood forests and along waterways. Seasonal availability typically runs April through October with most equestrian campgrounds closing during winter months due to weather conditions and trail preservation.
What to do
Trail riding on designated paths: Hartman Creek State Park Campground maintains horse-friendly trails with easy access from campsites. "Right along the ice age trail!" notes Leah K., while another visitor mentions "great off road cycling access" on the paved and unpaved paths.
Frisbee golf: Big Eau Pleine Park Campground offers a disc golf course within its 1,450-acre property. One visitor notes "there is a daily fee for disk golf course" while another mentions you can "play Frisbee, swim, fish" among the many activities available.
Water recreation: Access boat launches and fishing points across multiple lakes. "The lake is pretty. The campsites are a good size with plenty of shade," reports a visitor to Hartman Creek, while another notes it "has a nice small lake to bring your own kayaks and SUPs or rent on site."
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Wild West Campground & Corral provides a peaceful setting for horse enthusiasts. "This was quiet and peaceful. Being able to watch the horses was very calming," according to Dave S., who recommends the location to others.
Spacious, wooded sites: Many campgrounds feature large campsites with natural separation. At Hartman Creek State Park, one visitor found "pretty spacious sites, though they can range from very big to just big enough. Our site was larger, almost fully shaded under a mix of coniferous and deciduous trees."
Wildlife viewing: Forest and waterfront camping offers opportunities to observe local fauna. Big Eau Pleine Park provides "trails for hiking and lots of wildlife. Kids will love it," according to Walter W., who found the campground to be "very quiet and clean."
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary: Wedges Creek Hideaway offers "one of the largest, cleanest bathrooms I've seen. Women's had 2 sinks with a large vanity area, about 3 stalls and two very large shower stalls with full doors." However, at Big Eau Pleine, visitors report "no lights in restrooms or sanitizer."
Water conditions: Water quality can affect activities in certain locations. At Big Eau Pleine, one visitor mentions "the water quality suffers from green algae almost the entire season" and another noted "not sure about swimming in the water as there was neon green stuff washed up on the beach."
Permit and fee requirements: Firewood and daily park access often require additional fees. At Big Eau Pleine, "firewood permits are required and only sold from 8am - 8pm. The permit lasts for one day and can only be purchased from one location."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Several parks maintain swimming areas ideal for children. Hartman Creek State Park has "a gorgeous family friendly campground," according to Jen E., who adds "Hartman Creek is a nice small lake, with no wake. There is now a rental building available with kayaks, paddle boats, SUP, etc."
Evening activities: Lakeside Fire Campground & Waterpark offers additional amenities for kids. "Ice cream shop and hot dog" options are available according to one camper, making it convenient for family meals and treats.
Multiple accommodation options: Sites range from basic tent camping to cabins. At Wedges Creek Hideaway, they have "primitive cabins, full cabins with in house bath, electric RV/tent camping and more. Even wood fired pizzas with homemade crust most nights of the week and sometimes live music!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric service ranges from 30-50 amp depending on location. Glenn T. from Lakeside Fire Campground notes, "Very friendly atmosphere and more comfortable sized sites than we expected considering what we typically look for. All amenities are very nice."
Dump station access: Some parks charge additional fees for waste disposal. At Big Eau Pleine Park, "you now pay to dump your waste" according to a recent visitor, while others maintain this service within the standard camping fee.
Site selection for larger rigs: Certain campgrounds accommodate bigger RVs better than others. One visitor noted that Wedges Creek Hideaway is "on a double dead end road with several miles of hiking trails, electric hook up, cabins, fully furnished houses" making it suitable for various camping styles.
