Yellow River State Forest offers equestrian-focused camping opportunities about 90 miles from Newton, Wisconsin. The forest's trail system crosses multiple trout streams through varied terrain elevations ranging from 600 to 1,100 feet above sea level. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Cast a line in the regularly stocked streams directly accessible from Big Paint Campground. "Stocked trout streams are an attraction for fishermen," notes Mary S., who recommends checking the stocking calendar posted at the information center.
Hiking multi-day routes: Connect to extensive trail networks from Wildcat Mountain State Park, with routes ranging from easy to challenging. "We hiked a short distance into our site. We had to pass a grassy area that was always full of bunnies! The site was of good size, dark and quiet," shares Kay K.
Kayaking opportunities: Paddle the Kickapoo River near several horse campgrounds. John B. from Wildcat Mountain recommends: "Great location for kayaking and hiking. Bring or rent kayaks to float the Kickapoo River. Ontario to bridge 5 was 2.5 hours."
What campers like
Natural watering spots: Horses can drink from multiple stream crossings along the trails at Frontier Equestrian Campground. James M. describes "very nice spacious sites for horses/riders including tie-ups, fire rings, tables at each site. Self registration, trails from camp including stream crossings in trout streams."
Scenic overlooks: The region's driftless topography provides elevated viewpoints at Wyalusing State Park overlooking both the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers. "If you're looking for a majestic view of both rivers and the quaint river town of Prairie du Chien, the sites you'll want to check out are 119, 127, 129, 122, 144, 146, 148 and 152," advises Josh F.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers appreciate the upkeep at equestrian sites. At Creekside Equestrian Campground, James M. found "clean, well kept sites with tie-ups, tables, fire rings, manure station and tools, multiuser trails including stream crossings. Trout fishing is good with seasonal stockings."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Yellow River facilities operate differently throughout the year. Stuart O. notes about Big Paint Campground: "Was very thankful to find a place to overnight in mid-November. Not a lot of free parking options in this part of Iowa. Fee was $12. First come first served basis from November through March."
Limited amenities: Most horse campgrounds near Newton, Wisconsin offer primitive facilities. At Big Paint, Mary S. explains: "Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Other than that, you can dispose of your trash and use a vault toilet. There's water at the information center (and a camp host site) outside the campground about 100 yards to the left."
Reservation options: Many sites can be reserved online, but some remain first-come, first-served. "I doubt that Big Paint fills up; just check the reservation site to see if they get crowded," suggests Mary S., noting there are 7 non-reservable sites at Big Paint.
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate trails: Choose routes suitable for children's abilities at Yellow River's varied terrain. Kristina K. from Wildcat Mountain shares: "Very nice park. Great views. We were hoping for some more rock faces and challenging/longer distance hiking. We'd love to come back and see the ice cave when it's cold enough for ice."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to spot local animals. At Reno Horse Campground in nearby R.J.D. Memorial Hardwood State Forest, Joanna B. reported: "The bugs weren't too bad, no ticks, no critters and no road noise. It was very quiet and peaceful."
Educational elements: Several campgrounds offer nature programs for children. Jennifer B. recalls her Wyalusing State Park experience: "We visited in 2018 and the views are breathtaking! The sand caves are cool, lots of unique hiking features. The nature program was great for our son who was 2 at the time."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose your camping spot based on your specific needs. Daphne D. contrasts Big Paint with Little Paint Campground: "The sites there are pretty spacious and level, but they don't feel very private because this campground is essentially just an open field with line of sight to all other campsites."
Weather preparedness: Be ready for strong winds at elevated sites. Josh F. shares about Wisconsin Ridge Campground at Wyalusing: "This campground is also noted for its rip-roaring winds, one camper told us that during the rainy and wind night before, their shelter took off and tumbled down the valley."
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain for larger vehicles. Joyce B. from Wildcat Mountain advises: "We drove a truck so getting up/down the mountain wasn't a problem, but if you have a low car, the front end is going to get scraped at the bottom of the mountain."
Legend
