Equestrian camping near Wauzeka, Wisconsin offers access to both the Mississippi and Wisconsin River valleys within the Driftless Area, a unique topographical region untouched by glaciers during the last ice age. The area features steep limestone bluffs, ravines, and spring-fed trout streams with elevation changes of up to 500 feet. Camping options include primitive sites, electric hookups, and specialized equestrian facilities with direct trail access.
What to do
Trout fishing in stocked streams: Yellow River State Forest provides access to quality trout fishing throughout the season. "Visited the 3 lookouts including Iowa only Fire tower. Bird life is colorful. Lots of places to hike. Scenery is lush," notes a visitor to Big Paint Campground. The Iowa DNR maintains a regular stocking schedule for anglers.
Hike to scenic overlooks: Wyalusing State Park offers trails with views of both the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers. "Wow - well done, Wisconsin. What a beautiful park to pull into after a long day of driving. Lovely drive in to the park and then to pull up to an immaculate campsite was a treat. Fireflies emerged as we began to setup camp and we watched the sunset over the Missisippi before calling it a night," explains a camper at Wyalusing State Park Campground.
Kayak the Kickapoo River: The Kickapoo is known for its winding path through the Driftless Area. "Great location for kayaking and hiking. The facilities are well maintained and clean. Camping sites are spacious and the stars at night is amazing. Bring or rent kayaks to float the Kickapoo River. Ontario to bridge 5 was 2.5 hours," advises a visitor to Wildcat Mountain State Park.
What campers like
Cave exploration: Several parks feature limestone caves and unique rock formations. "The sand caves are cool, lots of unique hiking features. The nature program was great for our son who was 2 at the time," shares a camper at Wyalusing State Park about their family-friendly experience.
Diverse camping terrain: The region offers everything from riverside sites to hilltop vistas. "We stayed at site #125 which has fantastic views of the river and surrounding area's, but the wind is stronger at this spot because it's open. The entire campground is situated on top of a bluff so this compounded our wind issue," notes a visitor at Cox Hollow Campground.
Horse-friendly facilities: The dedicated equestrian campgrounds near Wauzeka provide trail access from camp. "In Yellow River State Forest-Very nice spacious sites for horses/riders including tie-ups, fire rings, tables at each site. Self registration, trails from/camp including stream crossings in trout streams. Manure station with tools," reports a rider who stayed at Frontier Equestrian Campground.
What you should know
Primitive camping logistics: Many sites have limited facilities. "Going in knowing that there were pit toilets and no potable water, I did not have high expectations for this campsite. I was pleasantly surprised to find it very well maintained with spacious sites," explains a visitor to Big Paint Campground, highlighting the importance of bringing water.
Weather considerations: Exposed sites can experience significant wind. "I also need to note that the majority of these campgrounds don't have much privacy or lack it entirely. This site was very open and I would opt for a little more tree coverage in the future," advises a camper at Wyalusing about selecting an appropriate site.
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife may visit campsites. "PSA (obvi) keep your food and garbage locked up and away from your site. The raccoons here and insanely bold, we had one frequently visit our site and get VERY close to us," warns a camper at Twin Valley Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Several parks offer play areas for children. "This is a state park so amenities are electric and the campgrounds do have public showers. Great little lakes for canoe, paddle board, kayak and fishing. A small concession is available and they do sell wood at the entrance," shares a visitor about facilities at Twin Valley Campground.
Educational opportunities: Many parks offer nature programs. "A very nice park located close to the Iowa border. Close to Effigy Mounds & Pikes Peak! It has great trails & campsites & lots of geocaching! Come one New Years for the annual carp drop," suggests a camper at Wyalusing State Park, noting nearby historical attractions.
Beach access: Several parks feature swimming areas. "There is a variety of things to do here. You can rent cabins, shelters, tent and RV camp, hike the trails especially the "Backbone", explore the cave, fish trout streams, visit fish hatchery, swim at the beach, canoe, kayak or just have a picnic," explains a visitor to Backbone State Park.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer limited electric sites. "I am a car camper with no interest in (E) electric sites, so I did not pay attention nor note good ones. I prefer the silence and relative darkness that non-E sites provide," shares a camper at Twin Valley Campground, indicating that campers should reserve electric sites early if needed.
Site levelness considerations: The hilly terrain affects site quality. "We slept with our heads lower than our feet in our camper van. Except for the handicap accessible sites, all are non electric (Twin Valley, the other campground has these)," notes a visitor at Cox Hollow Campground regarding their experience with uneven terrain.
Water and dump station access: Services vary by campground. "Was very thankful to find a place to overnight in mid-November. Not a lot of free parking options in this part of Iowa. No water, electric, or dump station, so very much like a parking lot overnight from that perspective," explains a visitor to Big Paint Campground about off-season limitations.
