Governor Dodge State Park Equestrian Campground includes 11 horse-friendly campsites located 30 miles west of Westport in the Driftless Area of Wisconsin. The terrain consists of glacially untouched valleys and forested ridges with elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet. The equestrian-specific campground connects directly to over 22 miles of marked horse trails through the 5,270-acre park's diverse landscapes with several water crossings available for horses throughout the trail system.
What to do
Hiking near beaches: Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground offers multiple hiking trails connecting to the lake. "The park includes a beach and boat launch to help you enjoy Lake Kegonsa. It was also pet friendly with pet trails and a pet beach of their own," notes Lisa S.
Paddling and fishing: Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground features a 455-acre lake ideal for canoes and kayaks. "There's a nice beach for kids and adults to relax at and lots of kayaks on the water," reports Ryan K. The lake supports good fishing with several piers accessible to campers.
Waterfall exploration: Stephens Falls at Governor Dodge State Park draws visitors with its accessible viewing area. "The Stevens Falls and Canyon Trails were the highlight of the trip—even in the rain! Once you continue down to the falls they have another informational plaque about the falls with old pictures," shares Siobhan R.
What campers like
Private sites: Twin Valley Campground at Governor Dodge receives praise for spacious, wooded sites. "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," writes Paul N.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses are common at state parks near Westport. "Clean bathrooms with showers. Good sized site with nice privacy. Good hiking around the lake and mostly dog friendly," says Matt N. about Lake Kegonsa State Park.
Natural water features: Swimming areas and beaches rank high among camper preferences. "The beach area was very small but it was enough for the kids to enjoy or to get your paddle board or kayak out on the lake," notes Lisa S. Most state parks in the region maintain designated swimming areas with some offering separate pet beaches.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Horse trails at many equestrian campgrounds near Westport become muddy during spring thaw and after heavy rains. At White Mound County Campground, a reviewer noted the "equestrian camp was closed because of mud."
Wildlife awareness: Multiple campgrounds report bold raccoons. "The raccoons here are insanely bold, we had one frequently visit our site and get VERY close to us and in the evening ended up ripping thru the roof of our tent," warns Sarah R. at Twin Valley Campground.
Low clearance hazards: Some campgrounds have infrastructure limitations. "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," cautions Kathy L.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation: Merry Mac's Campground offers extensive water activities for children. "Super fun campground with so much to do! Lake full of all kinds of floats the kids can climb and jump on. Clean pool to cool off in," recommends Tracy C.
Educational programs: Several parks offer nature programs suitable for children. "Pick up the activity book for kids it is a great adventure," suggests Jill G. about Kettle Moraine State Forest camping areas.
Playground facilities: Many campgrounds include dedicated play areas. "There was also a nice wooded picnic area with playground equipment for the kids," shares Lisa S. about facilities at Lake Kegonsa, noting these are typically located near shower houses or central facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Cox Hollow Campground at Governor Dodge requires careful site choice for larger rigs. "Great campground for everything but big 5th wheelers and motorhomes," advises Paul C. Most reviewers recommend checking site specifications before booking.
Electric site availability: Many campgrounds offer limited electric hookups. "There are 96 sites to choose from in all and even on the weekend there were still a few open spots. Lots of spots can handle RVs and there were drive through sites so you don't have to back in if that's beyond your skill set. A third of the sites offered electricity," reports Lisa S.
Dump station access: State parks typically provide dump stations near campground exits. "Water spigots and pit toilets were spread out to make them convenient from almost any site," notes one reviewer, making partial hookup sites more practical for shorter stays.
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