Best Equestrian Camping in Wisconsin

With the well-known water borders of Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, and Mississippi River, and the natural wonders of The Dells, stunning island sea caves, and the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, the hardest part about camping in Wisconsin is deciding where to go.

There are over 5,000 campsites in the state park system, and many more options for remote rustic camping, family campgrounds, and wilderness cabins. It’s important to think about what kind of experience you want. Trust that the Badger State will live up to its outdoor recreation reputation – but for those looking for a tame trip camping in Wisconsin’s forests, hopefully not its nickname.

Factoid: Wisconsin got its nickname, The Badger State, because of lead miners in the 1800s that often lived in tunnels burrowed in the hillsides to shelter in the winter. The miners were nicknamed “badgers.” Actual badger encounters are incredibly rare in Wisconsin.

For those who might be mildly disappointed by the lack of badger action, you’re probably the type looking for a rustic wilderness experience. Some of the best options for more remote camping in Wisconsin include Bagley Rapids Campground, Kettle Moraine State Forest, Rock Island State Park, Big Bay State Park, and the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.

One of the most visually stunning and unique places to experience in Wisconsin is the Apostle Islands archipelago off the southern shore of Lake Superior, with camping available on 19 of the 21 islands. Great options are available for all levels of tent or wild camping, with traditional sites, group campsites, and remote backpacking zones. One of the main attractions is the sea caves. They’re best viewed by a kayak, and unless you know the area, it would be smart to get a guide or take part in a tour to find the best spots, and more importantly, stay safe amongst the spectacular geological formations, sculpted by the same unpredictable water that needs to be respected when visiting the area.

If you’re looking for the true family fun experience while camping in Wisconsin, that doesn’t necessarily require wilderness survival skills, check out the Wisconsin Dells. This 5-mile glacially formed gorge is carved in sandstone on the banks of the Wisconsin River, with incredible naturally formed sculptures and canyons. The area has become one of the primary destinations in the state for outdoor recreation and family fun. There are a multitude of Wisconsin Dells cabins available for a memorable trip to “The Waterpark Capital of the World.”

When you’re looking for Wisconsin Dells cabins to rent, there are several cabin resorts boasting nearby outdoor activities, access to the Dells, and comfortable accommodations. Pay attention to the actual distance between your accommodations and The Dells, and be aware of the wide ranging term “cabin”, as some might not fit your definition. Just remember, go for the scenic views and natural beauty, stay for the water slides and food.

When camping in Wisconsin, it’s hard to go wrong with the state or national park system, with so many options and levels for all types of campers. With state’s like Wisconsin that have such variety, stick with us at The Dyrt for on-the-ground information about the region.

Best Equestrian Sites in Wisconsin (44)

    1. Wyalusing State Park Campground

    57 Reviews
    McGregor, WI
    Website
    +1 (608) 996-2261

    $15 - $35 / night

    "Located on the far western edge of Wisconsin this state park offers a little of everything - hiking trails connected to the camp grounds, boat access to the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers, overlook of"

    "This is an amazing park on the Wisconsin/Iowa border, overlooking where the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers join. I usually try to get in at least 1 trip a year, if lucky enough 2-3."

    2. High Cliff State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    Sherwood, WI
    Website
    +1 (920) 989-1106

    "This was my first time camping in a Wisconsin state park and I thought it was great! Our site backed up to a trail along the cliff which was awesome for a family that loves to hike."

    "Another spacious Wisconsin State Park site. #2 is level and listed as full shade but we had enough sun to recharge our Jackery everyday. It helps that it was blue skies each day!"

    3. Mauthe Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Northern Unit-Iansr

    41 Reviews
    Campbellsport, WI
    Website
    +1 (262) 626-2116

    $18 - $28 / night

    "I live very close to this park and camp here often. It is a nice family type campground with a nice swimming beach and playground for children."

    "Mauthe Lake Campground is located in the Northern Kettle Moraine Forest in East/Centreal Wisconsin."

    4. Lake Wissota State Park Campground

    34 Reviews
    Jim Falls, WI
    Website
    +1 (715) 382-4574

    "Great hiking trails, mountain biking. Equestrian trails also. Lake is huge, walleye are prevalent. Kayaking is great with other boat ramps available."

    "Nice beach that is a walkable distance from the sites. Lots of walking, biking and horse trails that are full of wild berries."

    5. Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground

    31 Reviews
    Blanchardville, WI
    Website
    +1 (608) 523-4427

    "Tons of forest with cross country, equestrian, and hiking trails. One of the best lakes in Wisconsin for fishing along with a nice beach, and pet area. There is a free gun range."

    "It has a large lake with three boat launches, a main one with a motor ramp, a canoe launch near the marshy end, and a fishing pier."

    6. Cox Hollow Campground — Governor Dodge State Park

    28 Reviews
    Dodgeville, WI
    Website
    +1 (608) 935-2315

    "The sites on the "inside" of the loop are rather close to one another.

    21 has a nice view of the lake, and you can walk back to the fence to look over the bluff 24 is quite private and very large 26,"

    "Two good lakes for kayaking/canoeing/fishing/swimming. Lots of good hiking trails and they are working on a big improvement to the equestrian campground."

    7. Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    21 Reviews
    North Prairie, WI
    +1 (262) 626-2116

    $18 - $30 / night

    "It is close to the Ice Age trail and the Scuppernong trail, and a short drive from Ottawa LakeNearby is some excellent mountain biking in hilly terrain at the Emma Carlin and John Muir trails. "

    "Pinewoods Campground is part of the southern Kettle Morraine State Forest in Wisconsin. The campground is secluded and most sites are private and shaded."

    8. Twin Valley Campground — Governor Dodge State Park

    20 Reviews
    Dodgeville, WI
    Website
    +1 (608) 935-2315

    "Lakes, trails, kayaking, boating, paddle boarding, fishing. Hidden gem of Wisconsin. The campsites are pretty private, nestled in trees. Some shaded, some have sun and shade."

    "Great park in the middle of nowhere Wisconsin. Not far from the house on the rock and Taliesin. Great open hiking trail. Well laid out sites with lots of space."

    9. Hartman Creek State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    King, WI
    Website
    +1 (715) 258-2372

    "Large private site surrounded by trees, with several options for positioning the trailer. The nearby chain of small lakes connected by narrows is ideal for kayaking."

    "This Beach is perfect, horse trails, biking trails. Right along the ice age trail!"

    10. Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Ontario, WI
    Website
    +1 (608) 337-4775

    "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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Equestrian Camping Reviews in Wisconsin

448 Reviews of 44 Wisconsin Campgrounds



Guide to Wisconsin

Horse camping in Wisconsin offers a unique opportunity to explore the state's beautiful landscapes while enjoying the company of your equine companions. With a variety of campgrounds equipped with horse-friendly amenities, riders can experience the great outdoors in comfort.

Campers appreciate these amenities for horses

Tips for equestrian camping in Wisconsin

Most campgrounds have horse-focused amenities like trails