Equestrian camping opportunities near Rice Lake, Wisconsin are limited but accessible within driving distance. The area sits within the Northern Highland region at approximately 1,148 feet above sea level and experiences distinct seasonal changes. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer brings warm days with occasional rainfall that creates muddy conditions on horse trails.
What to do
Trail riding around Lake Wissota: Lake Wissota State Park Campground features multiple trail systems that accommodate different recreation needs. "Lots of walking, biking and horse trails that are full of wild berries. Several stairways down to the lake, no beach at these spots but good for taking the dog in the water since they aren't allowed on the beach," notes Donella L.
Fishing from shore: Fish in the waters around Spring Valley where bass and panfish are common catches. "The boat dock and beach launch for kayaks is close by car, and we used it twice. Lovely waters - if you paddle North towards the park shoreline, there are shady places to tie up under white willow trees," shares Beth D.
Winter activities: Wild River State Park Campground offers year-round access for those willing to drive from Rice Lake. "The park is huge and beautiful. We snowshoed and skied. I really enjoyed the snowshoe hike along the St Croix River and watched the full moon rise," reports Joanna B.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many riders appreciate campground layouts that provide space between sites. "Very woodsy! Mosquitoes, gnats, and bugs galore. Beach is nice, even better that they have a seperate beach area for your leashed dog," says Hannah E. about Lake Wissota State Park.
Scenic trails for day rides: Highland Ridge offers wooded trails that connect to equestrian areas. "Beautiful Amish country, green, green, green, beside the lake...this place is a little off the beaten path, but a great place to stay while driving through WI," shares Chelsie N.
Water access for horses: "Lovely waters - if you paddle North towards the park shoreline, there are shady places to tie up under white willow trees, or to land and use secluded tie-up points just South of the beach area," notes Beth D., highlighting potential watering spots for horses at Lake Wissota.
What you should know
Equestrian-specific sections: Some campgrounds maintain designated horse camping areas. "There is an equestrian campground about a half mile before the main campground entrance. You may camp in the equestrian area (E1-E10) without a horse if the main area is full," explains Mary S. about Highland Ridge - Eau Galle Reservoir.
Seasonal challenges: "Stayed middle of the week found local firewood from farms nearby. Also a creamery is a short drive from camp," notes Benjamin about Highland Ridge, highlighting the need to source firewood locally when traveling with horses.
Advance preparation: "Someone had firewood for sale in front of their house as you drive toward the park, there is no firewood for sale at the campground when we were there," reports Laurel about Highland Ridge, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead for overnight stays with horses.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Highland Ridge - Eau Galle Reservoir offers family-friendly amenities that complement horse camping. "This was one of The cleanest campgrounds I have ever stayed at. The sites are large and very well shaded for privacy. Great playground and hiking area," shares Courtney C.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: "Plenty of wildlife and can hear the owls talking to each other," reports David G. about Highland Ridge, noting activities children can enjoy after returning from trail rides.
Beach activities: "Nice beach that is a walkable distance from the sites. Lots of walking, biking and horse trails that are full of wild berries. Also boat rentals and free yard games that can be checked out at the visitor center," explains Donella L. about Lake Wissota State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: When bringing horses to Highland Ridge, be strategic about which sites you select. "Some sites on the short loop (28-38) are a bit smaller and slope down from the road, so be careful of the site's size when booking. Our 29' trailer would have been a challenging fit in some of those sites," advises Deb M.
Water and electric hookups: "Cost is $20/$16 for electric/non-electric. This is an Army Corps of Engineers park which means you pay $10/$8 if you have an NPS Lifetime Senior Pass," notes Mary S. about Highland Ridge, providing cost information relevant to those traveling with horse trailers.
Leveling challenges: "We accidentally selected a site without electric, but if we had taken more time to use the website and enter search criteria, we could have found one with electric. The site itself was very nice, and we only had to level front-to-back," explains Laurel about Highland Ridge, highlighting practical considerations for trailer setup.
Legend
