The Stratford area offers equestrian-friendly campgrounds with access to extensive trail systems throughout Marathon and surrounding counties. Situated in central Wisconsin's mixed hardwood forests at elevations between 1,200-1,300 feet, the region experiences warm summers and cold winters. Campgrounds in the area typically operate from April through October, with most horse trails maintained during this season.
What to do
Hiking trail systems: Marathon County Dells of the Eau Claire Park provides access to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail with distinctive geological formations. One camper notes, "The most epic part of the place is the Eau Claire river with the rocks and mini water falls. Spring time the water is usually high and the breakup of ice happens it's amazing to see."
Disc golf courses: Big Eau Pleine Park Campground maintains a full disc golf course for visitor use. According to one reviewer, "Heads up there is a daily fee for disk golf course." The course offers a challenging layout through wooded terrain with varying elevations.
Horseback riding: At Wedges Creek Hideaway, guests can access several miles of riding trails directly from the property. A visitor mentions the campground has "several miles of hiking trails" that connect to larger trail systems suitable for day rides.
What campers like
Primitive camping options: Underdown Campground offers a true backcountry experience for those seeking solitude. A camper reports, "No running water, no bathrooms, no crowded plots. It's as primitive as can be. Very ample space except near the water... Can set up camp anywhere but the road really."
Equestrian atmosphere: Many visitors appreciate the calm environment at horse-friendly campgrounds. One camper at Wild West Campground shared, "Being able to watch the horses was very calming. We would recommend this place to others and we would go back."
Waterfront access: Big Eau Pleine Park Campground features extensive shoreline for fishing and recreation. A reviewer describes it as "1,450 acres of mixed hardwoods forming a two-mile peninsula jutting out deep into the waters of the Big Eau Pleine Flowage."
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Some lakes in the region experience seasonal algae issues. One camper at Big Eau Pleine noted, "The water quality suffers from green algae almost the entire season. Fishing can be good. No longer good for nocturnal carp due to water."
Campsite selection: At Marathon County Dells of the Eau Claire Park, site privacy varies significantly. A visitor mentioned, "The campground is pretty basic nothing fancy. You get privacy from campsite to campsite which is nice."
Firewood regulations: Local rules may restrict bringing outside firewood. At Big Eau Pleine Park, "Firewood permits are required and only sold from 8am - 8pm. The permit lasts for one day and can only be purchased from one location."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Popular swimming spots can become crowded during summer weekends. A camper at Marathon County Dells describes summer activity: "In the summertime you will see people all over the rocks swimming/sun bathing/having picnics/weddings/photo shoots.... The weekends are busy there all summer long."
Event facilities: Lakeside Fire Campground & Waterpark offers recreational facilities for children including a water park. A visitor notes the campground has an "Ice cream Shop in hot Dog" making it appealing for families with children.
Handicap accessible options: Several campgrounds offer designated accessible sites. One camper at Big Eau Pleine Park shared their experience: "I camped on the handicap site as I am disabled. The site is near the bathroom which is good it's a nice big site. It was big enough for an camper and a tent."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: For equestrian campers with living quarter trailers, electric service varies between campgrounds. At Wedges Creek Hideaway, visitors can find "electric hook up, cabins, fully furnished houses" making it suitable for various camping styles.
Seasonal considerations: Most horse campgrounds near Stratford, Wisconsin operate on a limited season. Wild West Campground operates "April 15 - October 15," requiring advance planning for spring and fall riding trips.
Site accommodations: RV campers report varying experiences with site size and amenities. At Lakeside Fire Campground, one visitor noted it has "very friendly atmosphere and more comfortable sized sites than we expected considering what we typically look for. All amenities are very nice."
