Ryan Y.
Scout
ScoutRustic Timbers Door County Camping
Very nice
Very nice campground lots to offer quiet relaxing with stuff to do to keep kiddos very busy everything is well up kept and clean
Equestrian Camping near Sister Bay, WI
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Cedar River North State Forest Campground features 14 campsites, with half containing horse pens directly on-site. Located 8 miles down an old logging trail, this equestrian-friendly campground sits along the Cedar River with most sites offering riverfront access. The campground maintains a network of equestrian trails that double as ski paths during winter months. Each site includes handicap-accessible picnic tables and fire pits with enough space to accommodate campers and horse trailers. A fresh water spigot serves the entire campground. The campground typically remains uncrowded, offering a quiet environment for horses and riders. Most visits include wildlife sightings and peaceful surroundings.
Direct access to equestrian trails begins at the campground, with paths suitable for riders of various skill levels. The campground accommodates both overnight horse camping and day-use trail riding, with ample parking for trailers at designated areas. Trail systems connect through forest lands with river access points along routes. Water crossing opportunities exist for experienced horses, while less challenging paths serve novice riders. Despite its remote location, basic necessities are available at a gas station/mart near the highway turnoff before reaching the campground. The rough access road requires caution but remains passable for vehicles pulling horse trailers. Mosquitoes are plentiful during summer months, so protection for both horses and riders is advisable.
Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Sister Bay (5)
1. Rustic Timbers Door County Camping
"The surrounding area is just expansive farmlands which is beautiful to look at when walking the dog in the morning.
They have fun kid things but you have to pay extra to use them.""We were nicely surrounded by woods with minimal visibility of our neighbors."
2. Washington Island Campground
"There are beaches all around, a very unique limestone beach that only exists in a few parts of the world and several different activities geared towards families."
"The campsites are in a beautiful forest, the showers were clean, the playground and mini golf weren’t in great condition but my kids loved traipsing around in the woods better anyway."
3. River Park
"Vault toilets were clean, centrally located and close to the hand pump well. Plenty of space at each of the sites. Some of the sites were right on the river while the ones uphill had horse fences."
"Each site is a good distance away from the nearest one so you do feel more remote as you camp."
Check Availabilityfrom $10 / night
4. Cedar River North State Forest Campground
"It's 8 miles down an old logging trail but it's worth the drive. There is no electricity but they have a fresh water spigot."
5. Green's Green Acres Campground
Drive Time
- 1 hr 19 min from Green Bay, WI
- 1 hr 45 min from Appleton, WI
- 2 hrs 5 min from Sheboygan, WI
- 6 hrs 8 min from Traverse City, MI
Equestrian Camping Reviews near Sister Bay, WI
23 Reviews of 5 Sister Bay Campgrounds
Kelly G.
GuideWashington Island Campground
Must stay!!
This was our second stay. Stayed on site 70 both times. 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. Campground check in was easy and smooth, owners were friendly and gave us tips for navigating into our site with a big rig. Overall it’s very quiet and relaxing on the island with plenty of nature things to do. Visit School House Beach (don’t take the rocks!), the lavender farm and for a few extra bucks have seafood at Sailors Pub on the water. We will definitely put this campground in our regular rotation of places to camp.
Gwynn S.
TravelerRiver Park
Campsite 2 (Middle of July)
Stayed here for one night and was perfect! Campsite 2 is amazing and has a path down to the river, which is so beautiful. Was very spacious and could fit a camper with a tent easily. Definitely be mindful with a camper just because of how bumpy the roads are. It includes a nice fire pit, long camping table, and trash can. All four campsites on property are far apart and didn’t hear neighbors. If bathrooms are big concern definitely get site 1 and if you want to be close to the beach get site 4. Site 2 and 3 are on the water front, you can get down to the river from 2 but unsure about 3. There was a good amount of broken glass and some trash at site 2, so be careful if you have little ones or dogs. We did see a park ranger during the morning but not sure how much they come around. Overall, great experience and would recommend if you are looking for some relaxing camping time :)
Christopher L.GuideCedar River North State Forest Campground
Quite, tranquil
Great little State Forest campground that follows the river. Very few people, extremely quiet, private sites. Road is slightly bumpy but completely fine for almost any vehicle to go down. Mosquitoes are plentiful
Eric S.ScoutRiver Park
Peaceful and rustic camping
This was a great trip to escape into the wilderness. Vault toilets were clean, centrally located and close to the hand pump well. Plenty of space at each of the sites. Some of the sites were right on the river while the ones uphill had horse fences. The road in was a little muddy but not bad enough to get stuck. My only complaint was the amount of trash in the fire pits. They have plenty of trash cans all around. Hopefully future campers start using them!
- MMary H.Guide
Washington Island Campground
A peaceful stay
A wonderful campground! My family visited at the end of September, and we had the campground to ourselves. The campsites are in a beautiful forest, the showers were clean, the playground and mini golf weren’t in great condition but my kids loved traipsing around in the woods better anyway. We found lots of wildlife but the best was cute little tree frogs! The island itself is lovely with lots to do and see. Restaurants and little grocery store that has everything you’d need. Taking the ferry was really fun and unique! Overall a wonderful place to stay and experience!
Connor M.GuideWashington Island Campground
Island living, fun, relaxing
Washington Island is a fun family oriented island. There are beaches all around, a very unique limestone beach that only exists in a few parts of the world and several different activities geared towards families. Everything is on Island time, meaning, life seems to slow down. Chill, relax, lay in the sun on the beach, go for a swim, walk among the millions of lavender flowers, attend a church service on Sunday. Washington Island seems to have a little bit of everything, even some fossils!
The campground available to us was just ok. The showers seemed a long walk, there are pit toilets near the camping spots but if you want running water you have to go to the club-house. The "mini-golf" course was in disarray, the "playground" was old and falling apart, and a lot of the camp ground spots were right on top of the other so do your research before reserving a spot. We stayed in site 12 and it felt like it was a little more private and larger.
The weather was great at the end of Aug; not too hot and not chilly, very comfortable for tent camping. The Ferry ride over was an unforgettable experience that my 6 year old thoroughly enjoyed. I will say that we were able to pretty much do everything the Island has to offer in 3 days and I don't know if I can justify coming back here again, but we had fun slowing down and that's what matters.
Linda N.GuideRustic Timbers Door County Camping
Great spot for families
This was our first experience with a “bells and whistles” type campground. And we were very pleased with the quality of the amenities that we have previously done without.
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. It’s a great setup for parents who feel comfortable letting their kids play at a distance.
The toilets and showers were just spotless and so clean. That was honestly such a pleasant and welcomed surprise.
We were fortunate to have a more wooded spot within the circle section of the campground but it was not as wooded/secluded as other camping experiences we’ve had. But we knew this going in and were really pleased with the amount of greenery we got along with the amenities.
Would definitely come back!
- CCole M.Scout
River Park
The location is stunning
The location is beautiful. Each campsite seems to be separated pretty far apart. I couldn’t see anyone else from my site (#2). However 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. Cell service with Att is horrible too but we are camping.
Guide to Sister Bay
Cedar River North State Forest Campground provides equestrian camping opportunities 8 miles down an old logging trail near Stephenson, Michigan. This rustic campground contains 14 sites situated along the Cedar River, with seven sites featuring built-in horse pens. The campground connects to designated horse trails that convert to cross-country ski paths during winter months. Water access is available from a central pump spigot, with vault toilets and accessible picnic tables at each site.
What to do
Trail riding excursions: Riders can access miles of designated equestrian trails directly from Cedar River North State Forest Campground. "Great little State Forest campground that follows the river. Very few people, extremely quiet, private sites," notes Christopher L., who warns that "mosquitoes are plentiful" during summer months.
River fishing: The Cedar River provides excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for bass. Washington Island Campground offers alternative fishing spots with easy water access. Connor M. shares: "Washington Island is a fun family oriented island. There are beaches all around, a very unique limestone beach that only exists in a few parts of the world and several different activities geared towards families."
Wildlife observation: The surrounding forest hosts abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. At River Park, campers report regular wildlife sightings. David K. describes his experience: "We went for walks on the handful of small trails, enjoyed a picnic and roasted food over our little fire. The site also offers toilet, water and trash services, adding a little extra convenience."
What campers like
Riverfront sites: Half the campsites at Cedar River North provide direct river access. At River Park, similar riverfront camping is available. According to Zachary J., "Perfect setting, quiet and no people. We are in site 3 overlooking the River. We will come back again; each site had a trash and fire ring."
Spacious campsites: The campground layout provides ample space between sites. Washington Island Campground offers similarly well-spaced sites, with Mary H. noting: "The campsites are in a beautiful forest, the showers were clean, the playground and mini golf weren't in great condition but my kids loved traipsing around in the woods better anyway."
Solitude: The remote location ensures minimal crowds even during peak season. The quiet environment makes it ideal for those seeking tranquility. "This place is awesome. It's 8 miles down an old logging trail but it's worth the drive," shares Lauren B., adding that "The campground is usually empty or close to it... otherwise it's pretty quiet."
What you should know
Road conditions: The access road requires careful navigation, particularly for larger vehicles or trailers. According to Cole M. at 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."
Limited amenities: The campground provides basic facilities only, with no electricity, showers, or modern restrooms. Water comes from a hand pump, and vault toilets serve the campground. Rustic Timbers Door County Camping offers more amenities for those preferring additional services.
Seasonal considerations: The campground typically operates from May through October, with specific opening dates varying based on road conditions. Be prepared for dense mosquito populations during summer months, requiring appropriate protection for both horses and humans.
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment: With no playground equipment at Cedar River North, families should pack their own recreational items. Rustic Timbers Door County Camping offers more child-focused amenities. Linda N. reports: "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."
Water safety: Supervise children near the Cedar River, where currents can be swift following rainfall. Designated river entry points provide safer access for swimming and water play.
Supply planning: Stock up on essential supplies before arrival, as the nearest store is located at the highway junction several miles from the campground. Amber C. notes about other horse campgrounds near Sister Bay, Wisconsin: "I was surprised that each site is pretty wooded making you feel like you don't have neighbors. The surrounding area is just expansive farmlands which is beautiful to look at when walking the dog in the morning."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should request sites #3-7, which offer the most level parking surfaces. For Washington Island options, Kelly G. advises: "Owners were friendly and gave us tips for navigating into our site with a big rig. Overall it's very quiet and relaxing on the island with plenty of nature things to do."
Water management: With no direct hookups, RVers must arrive with full freshwater tanks and plan for conservation. The centralized water pump allows for refills but requires transport containers.
Generator restrictions: Plan for alternative power sources as generator use may be limited by quiet hours and campground regulations. Green's Green Acres Campground provides electric hookups as an alternative, though David K. notes it's "largely centered around music. A local staple, many regular and occasionally irregular music festivals are held here."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian
campsite near Sister Bay, WI?
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Sister Bay, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Sister Bay, WI is Rustic Timbers Door County Camping with a 4.9-star rating from 8 reviews.
What is the best site to find
equestrian camping near
Sister Bay, WI?
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Sister Bay, WI?
TheDyrt.com has all 5 equestrian camping locations near Sister Bay, WI, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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