Governor Dodge State Park Equestrian Campground provides designated sites for horseback riders across the 5,000+ acre property. The 11 campsites accommodate horses with hitching posts and ample trailer space while connecting directly to over 22 miles of equestrian trails. Riders can access varied terrain through wooded hillsides, meadows, and stream crossings. Trail maps are available at the park office with routes marked according to difficulty level. Camping facilities include electric hookups, picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms with showers, and water spigots for horses.
What to do
Enjoy the lakefront: Lake Kegonsa State Park offers swimming access and boating opportunities. "The lake is gorgeous and clean. The only downfall is the lake is spring-fed so it's a bit cold for swimming," notes Jaime L. about nearby White Mound County Campground.
Explore hiking networks: The terrain surrounding Verona features varied landscapes and elevation changes. "We did about 10mi of hiking. Buggy, but it's June in WI," reports Doug at Yellowstone Lake State Park, where visitors can find both prairie and wooded trails.
Visit nearby attractions: The region around equestrian campgrounds near Verona features cultural sites within driving distance. "Nearby are the kitschy House on the Rock and Frank Lloyd Wright's famed Taliesin home and studio," mentions Brian O. about Twin Valley Campground.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Many horse-friendly campgrounds provide privacy between sites. "First off, I love this State Park. While the walk-in site I stayed at with my son (263) really isn't all that far from where you park, it still leaves you surrounded by trees, and secluded from (seeing) other campers," shares Paul N. about Twin Valley Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The natural areas surrounding Verona offer opportunities to observe local animals. "Lots of wildlife to enjoy and Yellowstone. A beautiful park and tons of hiking and nice lake," says Mallory M. about Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathroom and shower buildings rank high among camper preferences. "Clean bathrooms with showers. Good sized site with nice privacy. Good hiking around the lake and mostly dog friendly. Nice play ground with horse she pits," reports Matt N. about Lake Kegonsa State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal challenges: Weather conditions impact camping experiences throughout the year. "PROS: large private sites with good space between them in a lovely wooded setting. Very nice hiking trails right from campground. Lake & pet swim area. CONS: no water, mosquitos," reports Kathy L. about Lake Kegonsa State Park.
Site leveling concerns: The rolling terrain around Verona can create uneven campsites. "Good sized wooded sites with trees providing reasonable privacy. Flat area for tents but not all 'driveways' are level which, unfortunately, we discovered in site 33. We slept with our heads lower than our feet in our camper van," warns Lee D. about Cox Hollow Campground.
Wildlife management: Local wildlife can affect camping experiences in equestrian areas. "Beware of raccoons at this campground they are BOLD," cautions Jen L. about Cox Hollow Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "Super fun campground with so much to do! Lots of games for all up by lodge. DJ dance party on the deck at night. Lake full of all kinds of floats the kids can climb and jump on. Clean pool to cool off in. Sand volleyball, ga ga ball, huge park," recommends Tracy C. from Merry Mac's Campground.
Swimming options: Water activities provide relief during warmer months. "This is good, clean campsite. You kids will have fun here. There is lot to do. Mostly RV sites," reports Sajjad A. about Merry Mac's Campground, which features a swimming area with inflatables.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds maintain quieter atmospheres than others. "Main complaints from the group were there were too many kids for our camping experience and the swimming beach was small for the amount of people there during the day," notes Tate T. about Yellowstone Lake State Park.
Tips for RVers
Site selection: Choose your campsite carefully based on size and levelness. "If camping with a trailer or RV check to make sure you will get a campsite that is level enough for your vehicle. Lots of the campsites are uneven and larger vehicles may have issues getting level," advises Jeanne M. about Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground.
Low clearance warnings: Watch for height restrictions when traveling with larger rigs. "Major CAUTION for RVs: there is an oak tree near entry with low branches and it took the AC off our friend's fifth wheel. There is also a low hanging overpass and it took the roofs off TWO fifth wheels while we were staying there," warns Kathy L. about Lake Kegonsa State Park.
Access roads: The terrain can present challenges for larger vehicles. "The roads are narrow, but surrounded by trees. You can't beat the views at this place, really spectacular," notes Sebastian G. when describing access to equestrian camping areas near Verona.
Traveler
