River Park is the main equestrian campground near Peshtigo, Wisconsin, located along the Menominee River. The campground sits approximately 25 miles northeast of Peshtigo at an elevation of 600 feet. The area features mixed hardwood forests and seasonal temperature variations from below freezing in winter to humid 80°F days in summer.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Bay Shore Park offers access to Green Bay waters where campers can fish from the shore or small boats. "Watching lightning storms approach from over the lake was exhilarating," notes Sam F., highlighting the dramatic weather views that complement fishing activities.
Hiking trails: Chute Pond Park features several trail options for walking or horseback riding. "There's lots of hiking trails. One trail leads to a scenic overlook and another leads to slippery rock," explains Emily K., who adds that "Slippery Rock is a waterfall from the river that you can actually slide down."
Water activities: Summer visitors can enjoy swimming and boating at select campgrounds. Emily K. describes Chute Pond Park's water features: "They have a nice beach. You can rent out kayaks and little boats. Also there's a big pond where you can boat and swim and there's a sandbar too."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Cedar River North State Forest Campground, campers appreciate the secluded feel. Christopher L. notes it has "very few people, extremely quiet, private sites," while Lauren B. adds that "the campground is usually empty or close to it."
Water access: Many equestrian campers value direct water access. At River Park, Eric S. observed that "some of the sites were right on the river while the ones uphill had horse fences," showing the dual-purpose nature of this equestrian-friendly camping area.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting attracts various animals. Lauren B. from Cedar River North describes: "There is a bunch of wildlife, you can hear birds and squirrels chattering, coyotes call to each other in the early in the morning across the river, and lots of little critters scurrying about."
What you should know
Road conditions: Most horse camping areas have rough access roads. Cole M. noted about River Park: "I would not recommend this campground for anyone with a larger camper. I have a 38' long, 12'+ tall bumper pull and was scraping the roof on trees and struggled to get backed into the site."
Seasonal considerations: Washington Island Campground and other sites in the region have distinct seasonal characteristics. Connor M. reports: "The weather was great at the end of Aug; not too hot and not chilly, very comfortable for tent camping."
Facility limitations: Many campgrounds have basic amenities only. Lauren B. explains that Cedar River North "is 8 miles down an old logging trail but it's worth the drive. There is no electricity but they have a fresh water spigot."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Rustic Timbers Door County Camping provides multiple play areas. Linda N. shares: "The newer playground is now open/free and includes a pickleball court, which was enjoyed by everyone. There is also a nice little convenience store and a bar/restaurant with a patio that overlooks the play area."
Child-friendly water features: Several campgrounds offer water activities for kids. At Chute Pond Park, Shelby N. mentions: "The trails that go down towards the falls are really nice and it's a great campground to watch the stars!"
Dedicated family spaces: Some campgrounds create environments specifically for children. Jill G. describes Bay Shore Park as being "on the Niagara escarpment" and notes "they have nice black top drives to park on nice large grills water and electric on every site and right on the Bay."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: When bringing horses and large trailers, site selection is crucial. Kelly G. from Washington Island Campground shares: "We had a 35' trailer last year and 42' fifth wheel this year. The ferry ride was easy to navigate and when we arrived we were able to just drive right on. Even with our 13'2" clearance they easily accommodated us."
Hookup considerations: Water and electric connections can vary between sites. Ronald G. notes about Washington Island: "Site had both 30 and 50 amp hookups. Oddly, no standard 110v 15amp plug though. There is water at each site, but the lowest water pressure I have ever seen."
Seasonal maintenance: Weather impacts site conditions throughout the year. Celeste D. warns about Bay Shore Park: "Rain does cause many of the spots to flood," which is particularly important for horse owners concerned about muddy conditions.
