Wild West Campground & Corral serves as a central location for equestrian activities near Scandinavia, Wisconsin. Located at 44.35 latitude and 89.31 longitude, this region features gently rolling terrain with a mix of hardwood forests and open meadows. The campground sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season from May through September.
What to do
Horseback riding on bridle trails: Multiple interconnected trails near Wild West Campground & Corral allow riders to explore wooded areas and open meadows. Dave S. notes that "watching the horses was very calming," making this an ideal spot for both experienced and novice riders.
Hiking at Ice Age Trail: Nearby Hartman Creek State Park Campground connects to numerous hiking opportunities. Leah K. confirms this connection, noting the park is "right along the ice age trail" with additional "horse trails, biking trails" available to campers.
ATV riding: For those seeking motorized adventure, Embarrass River Campground and ATV Park offers dedicated riding areas within a 35-minute drive. Matthew J. describes the experience: "You can bring your ATV to ride on the ATV track there or on the trails in the woods. We seen deer while riding through the trails."
What campers like
Spacious camping sites: The horse campgrounds near Scandinavia feature generously sized sites suitable for trailers and equipment. At Embarrass River Campground, Matthew J. appreciates the "big secluded sites" with "plenty of shade" and sites along the river that provide the "relaxing and comforting" sound of "the fast moving stream especially at night."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting provides chances to observe local animals. At High Cliff State Park Campground, campers can explore diverse habitats. Sam F. notes there's "plenty to do from fishing to hiking mountain biking lookout towers and parks."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained amenities enhance the camping experience for horse owners and regular campers alike. Nancy S. found High Cliff State Park "lovely" and though the "hiking trails are short," they're "nice" with the "lime kiln trail" being "difficult but so worth it."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most equestrian campgrounds near Scandinavia operate from mid-April through mid-October. Wild West Campground & Corral specifically runs from April 15 through October 15.
Water quality concerns: Some nearby water features experience seasonal algae issues. At Big Eau Pleine Park Campground, Lori S. warns that "the water quality suffers from green algae almost the entire season" though "fishing can be good."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance bookings, especially for equestrian sites. Walter W. recommends Big Eau Pleine Park for its value: "This is a County Park. The best for the price" with "water access, boat launches, swimming, fishing."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Many campgrounds offer swimming areas suitable for children. Ellen B. notes that Hartman Creek has "clean bathrooms with showers" and provides "easy access to trails, lakes, and a short jaunt to beautiful downtown Waupaca."
Nature programs: Several parks host ranger-led activities during summer months. Jen E. found Hartman Creek "a gorgeous family friendly campground" with good fishing: "Allen Lake has a fishing pier that the kids loved fishing from. Good catches early in the morning!"
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with playground equipment and open spaces. At Marathon County Dells of the Eau Claire Park, Raechel S. describes the river features as a natural playground: "In the summertime you will see people all over the rocks swimming/sun bathing/having picnics."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horses: When traveling with horses, secure level sites with adequate space for trailers and corrals. At Wild West Campground & Corral, sites accommodate both camping equipment and horse trailers, though they're "not designated as big-rig friendly."
Electric hookup availability: Most equestrian campgrounds offer electric sites, but amperage varies. Terri notes that Big Eau Pleine Park has "about 60 with electric" out of 106 total sites with daily fees ranging "from $18.00 for a non-electric, with no lake view to $23.00 for lake view with electric."
Water access points: Not all sites offer water hookups. David O. found Big Eau Pleine Park "kind of crowed, clean" but noted there were "no lights in restrooms or sanitizer," highlighting the importance of bringing personal supplies.
Scout
