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Equestrian Camping near Westby, WI

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    Yellow River State Forest in Harpers Ferry, Iowa offers multiple equestrian-specific campgrounds including Frontier and Creekside. Both campgrounds feature individual sites with tie-ups, picnic tables, and fire rings. The forest maintains proper manure disposal stations with tools provided for campers. Sites are spacious and level, providing ample room for horse trailers. These campgrounds connect directly to multiuser trails with stream crossings through trout-rich waters. The campsites accommodate tents and RVs, though most sites are primarily grass surfaces. Self-registration is available for overnight stays.

    Equestrian trails throughout Yellow River State Forest include multiple water crossings through seasonal trout streams. Riders access an extensive network of trails directly from the campgrounds, with many routes designated for multiuser access. Trail systems allow riders to explore varied terrain while crossing scenic waterways. The horse campgrounds remain well-maintained with regular upkeep of tie-up areas and manure disposal facilities. Located approximately 55 miles from Westby, Wisconsin, these sites provide good alternatives for riders seeking developed horse camping facilities. The trails accommodate various riding experiences and skill levels, and some paths offer breathtaking lookout points to view the countryside.

    Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Westby (8)

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      1. Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground

      4.6(21)15mi from WestbyRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "NOTE; Google maps makes it look like the campground and landing are near each other. They are not."

      "Proximity to potable water, vault or modern toilets and designated parking are all within 400 yards of all sites. "

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      2. Reno Horse Campground — R.J.D. Memorial Hardwood State Forest

      5.0(1)21mi from WestbyTents

      "There are many hiking trails, including a trail that goes on top of the bluff with views of the forest and of Wisconsin and the Mississippi River."

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      3. Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest

      4.5(12)39mi from Westby27 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "Many different trails for hiking, biking or equestrian. Camp sites are mostly grass. Beautiful park"

      "There are two equestrian campgrounds (Creekside and Little Frontier with sites numbered 1 through 34) as well as hike in campgrounds for backpackers. A photo of an area map is included."

      from $16 / night

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      4. Frontier Equestrian Campground — Yellow River State Forest

      5.0(1)38mi from Westby18 sitesRVs, Tents

      "In Yellow River State Forest,-Very nice spacious sites for horses/riders including tie-ups, fire rings, tables at each site."

      from $20 / night

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      5. Money Creek & Vinegar Ridge — R.J.D. Memorial Hardwood State Forest

      3.7(3)42mi from WestbyRVs, Tents

      "no shower) Horses are allowed. Fairly close together sites, but a beautiful area to get into nature or go camping at a reasonable price."

      "Access to Root River trail close by."

      from $17 / night

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      6. White Mound County Campground

      4.3(3)43mi from WestbyRVs, Tents

      "Most of the time, the pay envelopes are outside and you have to duck into your car, fill it out, and dart back into the dark to the drop box."

      "The campsites are tucked away and private. There are bathrooms and a small playground. The lake is gorgeous and clean. The only downfall is the lake is spring-fed so it’s a bit cold for swimming."

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      7. Creekside Equestrian Campground — Yellow River State Forest

      4.0(1)38mi from Westby14 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Clean, well kept sites with tie-ups, tables, fire rings, manure station and tools, multiuser trails including stream crossings. Trout fishing is good with seasonal stockings."

      from $20 / night

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      8. Oak Ridge / Wet Bark Recreation Area — R.J.D. Memorial Hardwood State Forest

      2.5(2)40mi from WestbyTents
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    Equestrian Camping Reviews near Westby, WI

    44 Reviews of 8 Westby Campgrounds

    • Crystal B.The Dyrt PRO User
      Mar. 27, 2026

      Oak Ridge / Wet Bark Recreation Area — R.J.D. Memorial Hardwood State Forest

      Rustic equestrian friendly campsites in bluff country near Houston MN.

      Located on state forest land there are 2 separate areas right next to each other. The first loop is for smaller vehicles and tents and the larger area should be reserved for larger vehicles with horse trailers. There are hiking and equestrian trails present into the state forest land. There is one vault toilet. No other amenities. Beautiful area!

    • Brian O.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jan. 13, 2023

      Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground

      the best river for canoeing / kayaking in Wisconsin

      This was our second visit to this park. On both occasions we wanted to canoe the scenic Kickapoo river. Our first trip was five years ago and we got portage service for our canoe from Titanic Rentals in Ontario. We went from there (bridge 1) to bridge 12 Which took nearly all day, but we were able to have lunch at the park's Wildcat landing, the only real and equipped picnic site along the river. NOTE; Google maps makes it look like the campground and landing are near each other. They are not. It's three miles of very steep roads, so don't think you're going to fetch anything you left behind.
       The campground is on top of the ridge, which means in the morning you will look out over a fog shrouded valley through the trees. The views from the overlooks, which are a short hike, are worth checking out. Campsite 15 is the only one with a clear view.
      There are walk in sites and the paths are wide and clear. The park provides large carts for your stuff so you can really pack stuff in and get away from it all. But the family tent and RV sites generally well spaced, check the map as some are more private than others.
       Our second trip was in August, 2023 and we canoed from bridge 12 to LaFarge (bridge 21). It was later in the season than our previous trip, and in the slightly less scenic stretch of the river. As a result, we didn't see any other boaters.
      Campsites have basic fire ring, and there are pit toilets as well as one Full facility with running water and hot showers. Firewood is available at the Ranger station.
      There's also Equestrian camping elsewhere in the park and lots of trails for both hikers and horses.
       The town of Ontario has a good general store and a couple bars, but this is pretty much wilderness and small farms. Two unique places however are Wild Things Furrier near bridge twelve. Want a coonskin cap or some smoked trout? This is the place.
       More unique than that if you want to treat yourselves, go 34 miles south to the St. Frances Hermitage restaurant. It's run by a small order of French Monks and Nuns who raise their own animals and grow the vegetables they serve. Their bakery is also delicious. This is not fast food, this is a gastronomic experience.

    • Joanna B.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 16, 2020

      Reno Horse Campground — R.J.D. Memorial Hardwood State Forest

      Dispersed camping

      5/30/20-5/31/20

      We went camping on a whim and headed to the state forest since dispersed camping is open. We backpacked to the quarry and found a large open area, perfect for multiple tents. The sandstone bluffs were in the background. There are multiple handmade rock fire pits, some rock chairs, tables and lots of space.

      There are many hiking trails, including a trail that goes on top of the bluff with views of the forest and of Wisconsin and the Mississippi River. There is also hiking within this unit and a horse campground. The bugs weren’t too bad, no ticks, no critters and no road noise. It was very quiet and peaceful. I’d highly recommend this section of RJD forest.

    • Kim The Dyrt PRO User
      Sep. 3, 2020

      Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground

      Wonderful cart in sites

      The cart in sites are fantastic at Wildcat Mountain! Each site is spacious with most heavily treed for shade. Each site has a nice large flat pad for a tent or two, fire ring, bench and picnic table. Proximity to potable water, vault or modern toilets and designated parking are all within 400 yards of all sites. 

      The park is located in the Kickapoo valley area where the driftless area is amazing to hike. You can kayak or tube down the river that is flanked by high limestone bluffs. The hiking trails are well maintained. There is also extensive horse trails, a beautiful outdoor ampitheater for viewing sunsets and access to the river right in the park. 

      The campers were respectful and quiet. Our campsite was fairly clean when we arrived. Contactless registration due to covid 19. That made getting set up quick and easy!  The cart provided was fairly big for less trips. I would happily camp here again!

    • Mary S.
      Aug. 19, 2018

      Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest

      Small campground has nearby hiking and fishing

      This review is for Yellow River State Forest's Big Paint Campground which consists of sites 35 through 61. Big Paint is a couple miles from Little Paint, a larger campground with 70+ sites. There are two equestrian campgrounds (Creekside and Little Frontier with sites numbered 1 through 34) as well as hike in campgrounds for backpackers. A photo of an area map is included.

      Why did we choose Big Paint instead of Little Paint?

      It's smaller and that's just our personal preference. There were only 4 sites occupied early Friday afternoon and a few more were reserved. We liked site 35, the first site on the left as you enter. This site is like being in a garden with trees and flowers surrounding the site. It had rained and more rain was coming, so the gravel parking pad on #35 was appealing. Most of the sites are completely on the grass.

      Activities

      Stocked trout streams are an attraction for fishermen; see photo of stocking calendar. We enjoyed hiking despite the mosquitoes and humidity in August and were able to make a 5+ mile loop leaving from the campground. You can also hike from Little Paint, and there are equestrian trails. This would also be a good area for X-country skiing and snowmobiling. A photo of the trail map is included. Caution: hunting is allowed in the non-campground area of the state forest.

      Amenities

      Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Other than that, you can dispose of your trash and use a vault toilet. There's water at the information center (and a camp host site) outside the campground about 100 yards to the left.

      Cost

      You're not getting much (and that's not a bad thing) so the $9 fee seems fair. Pay up front at the entrance station, or make a reservation online at last 2 days ahead of time (and pay a reservation fee). There are 7 non-reservable sites at Big Paint. I doubt that Big Paint fills up; just check the reservation site to see if they get crowded.

      https://iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com/camping/yellow-river-state-forest/r/campsiteSearch.do?search=site&page=siteresult&contractCode=IA&parkId=610130

    • B
      Jul. 27, 2022

      Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground

      Great area for canoeing and kayaking

      Pretty cool state park. Campground is located on the top of the hill. Wish there were more hiking trails. You can also hike on the horse trails if you want. Would highly recommend canoeing or kayaking the Kickapoo River if you are spending a weekend there.

    • Josh F.
      Sep. 7, 2021

      Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground

      I love this small but mighty state park

      This is a small state park in terms of overall number of campsites, but its network of hiking and horseback riding trails is extensive. What makes this state park particularly interesting from a camping perspective are the walk-in(or cart in) sites. There are 12 sites you can't drive to, and the park provides very nice carts for each site(unlike other state parks where there is one or two carts for all of the sites or none at all(Blue Mounds and Gov. Dodge State Parks respectively). 

      Walk-In Sites

      If you are looking for privacy, cart-in site 119 is quite a ways off the trail and far from the parking lot, but it's a bit small. It has some nice midday sun but is otherwise obscured by a lot of foliage which gives it a nice amount of privacy. Number 103 is in a heavily-wooded area and doesn't get a lot of sun but is nicely situated off the main path providing it quite a bit of privacy, but not too far from the parking area. On the other hand, number 104 directly across the gravel path from 103 is situated with a east-facing view of a very nice prairie, providing ample morning sunshine. However, a grove of trees on its western side provides very nice afternoon shade. 

      s 103 and 104 are also a very easy walk to some of the cleanest vault toilets you'll ever find, or just a little farther to the very nice shower and running water toilet building. I think 103 and 104 are my two favorite walk-in sites. 105 is on the same side of the road as 103, and is also nestled into a grove of pine trees. It is a bit smaller than 103 and if you have a large tent or a couple of small tents you might want 103 instead. If you're looking for wide open big sky prairie overlooks, sites 106 and 107 are just for you. They are probably some of the furthest walk-in sites from the parking lot, but afford a lot of privacy and lots of sunlight. 
      Car Camping Sites

      Now for the "car camping" sites. All of the electric sites are in a wide open in a large grassy area, and do not provide any privacy between sites or from the road. On the other hand, the non-electric sites afford a bit more privacy on their loop. The sites on the right hand side of the one-way street have far more privacy than the ones on the other side of the road. I would not like sites 1 through 5 because they are located between the main road and the campsite loop road, which would mean lots of car traffic and headlights in your tent all night long. On the left hand side of the road site 6, 9 and 11 are decent. 

      I would like to add a special note about sites 13 through 16. Three of these are on the outside of a small cul-de-sac loop, and are nicely situated in the woods, though they are close to the main road and would experience a fair amount of traffic noise. However, if you have a choice I would highly recommend avoiding site 16, it's in the middle of the loop has no privacy and isn't very pleasant except that it is completely shaded. 

      About the Park Itself

      This state park has an extensive system of horseback riding and hiking trails. The nice thing is that the horseback trails are shared by hikers. This state park also has one of the most beautiful and well-maintained overlooks, peering down into and across the Kickapoo River Valley. 

      I highly recommend visiting this overlook in the morning, at sunset, and even in pure darkness. We saw a wide array of stars and the Milky Way thanks to low light pollution. I'm not saying there is no light pollution, but it's pretty darn dark. I fell in love with this state park. It has fewer than 50 campsites, well maintained shower and vault toilet blocks, and a beautiful selection of walking trails. It also has a very accurate map of the walking trails, so you can hike confidently. 

      The park office sells firewood for$5 a bundle, which is about the same kind and quantity as they sell for$7.50 at the gas station 7 miles down the road in Ontario, Wisconsin. If you need a groceries or gasoline, the Cenex gas station has a small but sufficient grocery supply if you you need something. We forgot to bring eggs and pancake mix and they had both.

      Kayaking the Kickapoo

      This is a great place to start your Kickapoo River kayaking adventure. We booked two kayaks with one of the Ontario-based outfitters and spend a glorious September day paddling and floating the absolutely beautiful river. I HIGHLY recommend taking a day to explore the beautiful scenery from the silence of a river kayak.

    • Amy G.The Dyrt PRO User
      Oct. 7, 2018

      White Mound County Campground

      Very pretty...very quiet...very clean...incredibly nice campground

      We got there late in the evening, but the check in/self pay process was very simple and straight forward. Fees were incredibly reasonable for such a nice campground, and it was very quiet, even though there were lots of people enjoying this campground. Lovely atmosphere!

      We arrived late, so we had to self pay. But all that paperwork and payment took place inside a little heated shelter house of sorts. Bonus! Most of the time, the pay envelopes are outside and you have to duck into your car, fill it out, and dart back into the dark to the drop box. There was even a campground map showing which spaces were taken and available (at the time the attendant went home for the day). This was nice, but the space we thought was open had been taken by someone moments before. So not fool proof, but a decent guide for those arriving after dark. We still found another space and made it our home for the night. Not to mention, they had one of the best maps I've ever seen!

      Fees:

      $5 per adult

      $5 per car or vehicle

      $5 if you didn't have a park sticker

      $5 if you made the reservation online or by phone.

      $5 for electric

      Soooo...if you had 2 adults, one car and needed electric, then it would be $20. And so forth...

      This place is so quiet! The campground was very full that night, but we heard almost nothing from people at all. Just a little chatter from a couple guys nearby, but at a very respectful level. We actually got to enjoy the night sounds of pitter patter rain and the occasional owl in the distance. No road noise.

      The sites are spread out enough to make this peaceful and private, but close enough to make the campground functional and cozy. Electric sites (designated with an "E" beside the number) were scattered with non electric sites. Electrics were more plentiful, though. Tent sites were also available, if you like. They were grouped together in a different area. Our closest neighbors site was within view of the fire ring, but no one was there this night. The sites were deep, so you could pull in and nestle in the trees, even if you had a neighbor, and it was more private. There was a nice picnic table near the fire ring, which was quite nice for a fire, but no grate for cooking on. The pad we pulled into was fairly level and covered in pea gravel. We were using our teardrop trailer this night instead of a tent.

      There were bathrooms scattered around with very clean pit-type toilets, and there were multiple toilets in "mens" and "women's" rooms. There was also a shower house with pay showers, but prices were very reasonable. I think it was 25 cents for 5 minutes, and the more quarters you put in, the more time you got. There was also a row of sinks and mirrors under a sheltered roof as well as a pay washer and dryer, something I've never seen before at a campground.

      Beyond the other lovely amenities, they had picnic tables everywhere, drinking water spigots, fire pits at every site and a playground for the kids.

      Overall, definitely one of the more perfect places to camp. And if you had extra time, there was a lake at the other end of the park. And equestrian trails and an equestrian camp, but it was closed because of mud.

      Located in gorgeous Amish country, the drive back to the interstate to head north again was incredibly enjoyable and a great way to end a great camping adventure.

    Guide to Westby

    Yellow River State Forest in northeastern Iowa provides equestrian trail riding opportunities within 55 miles of Westby, Wisconsin. The forest terrain features steep limestone bluffs rising 400-600 feet above river valleys with trout streams. Equestrian campgrounds offer direct multiuser trail access across varied terrain including numerous water crossings.

    What to do

    Hiking exploration: Wildcat Mountain State Park trails offer varying difficulty levels through the Driftless Region. "We hiked a short distance into our site. We had to pass a grassy area that was always full of bunnies! The site was of good size, dark and quiet," notes Kay K. The Ice Cave trail provides a quick geological experience, especially interesting during cold months.

    Trout fishing: Seasonal stocking occurs in streams throughout Yellow River State Forest, making it ideal for anglers. "Stocked trout streams are an attraction for fishermen," explains Mary S., who visited Big Paint Campground. The forest maintains a stocking calendar posted at information centers for planning your fishing trips.

    Scenic lookouts: Multiple observation points in the region provide views across river valleys. At Wyalusing State Park, "There are many burial mounds in the park, and there is an astronomical observatory on site," mentions Jim J., highlighting educational opportunities beyond standard hiking. The park sits atop bluffs overlooking both the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers.

    What campers like

    Spacious sites: Equestrian campers appreciate the layout at Creekside Equestrian Campground. According to James M., these are "Clean, well kept sites with tie-ups, tables, fire rings, manure station and tools, multiuser trails including stream crossings." The sites accommodate large horse trailers with room to spare.

    Quiet atmosphere: Campers consistently mention the peaceful settings. At Big Paint Campground, Tori L. describes it as a "Dream stay. Came to learn more about Tenkara fly fishing. Had a ball. Bird life is colorful. Lots of places to hike. Scenery is lush. I had no phone service." The lack of connectivity often enhances the wilderness experience.

    Trail access: Horse trails connect directly to camping areas, allowing riders immediate access to forest paths. James M. notes that Frontier Equestrian Campground offers "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."

    What you should know

    Limited facilities: Most equestrian campgrounds have basic amenities only. At R.J.D. Memorial Hardwood State Forest, Scott S. notes: "There are 8 sites. There is no water or electricity. One pit toilet for the site. 5 miles from Rushford MN." Always bring sufficient water for yourself and your horses.

    Seasonal variations: Services and accessibility change throughout the year. Stuart O. found that at Big Paint Campground, "No water, electric, or dump station, so very much like a parking lot overnight from that perspective. Fee was $12. First come first served basis from November through March."

    Self-registration: Most sites require self-check-in rather than staffed facilities. Mary S. explains that at Big Paint Campground, you "Pay up front at the entrance station, or make a reservation online at least 2 days ahead of time (and pay a reservation fee)."

    Tips for camping with families

    Playground access: White Mound County Campground offers family-friendly facilities. Jaime L. reports, "The campsites are tucked away and private. There are bathrooms and a small playground. The lake is gorgeous and clean." This makes it ideal for families needing additional entertainment options.

    Educational opportunities: Look for ranger programs when available. Jennifer B. found Wyalusing State Park valuable for young children: "The nature program was great for our son who was 2 at the time." These programs typically run weekends during summer months.

    Safety considerations: Some trails have steep sections requiring supervision. Daphne D. notes there are "breathtaking lookout points to see the countryside" at Big Paint Campground, but families should be cautious as some areas feature significant drop-offs.

    Tips for RVers

    Site surfaces: Most equestrian camping areas have grass surfaces rather than gravel or paved pads. According to Tamsyn K. at Big Paint Campground, sites are "spacious" but primarily grass-covered, which can be problematic after rain.

    Access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. Joyce B. cautions about Wildcat Mountain: "If you have a low car, the front end is going to get scraped at the bottom of the mountain." RVs with low clearance should research access carefully.

    Limited hookups: While some sites offer electric hookups, most equestrian-specific campgrounds have minimal services. James M. indicates Creekside Equestrian Campground has the basics but reminds that specialized horse facilities outweigh full hookup convenience.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Westby, WI?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Westby, WI is Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 21 reviews.

    What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Westby, WI?

    TheDyrt.com has all 8 equestrian camping locations near Westby, WI, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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