Brushy Creek South Equine Campground

For Iowans with a love for the outdoors, especially those who enjoy horseback riding, Brushy Creek South Equine Campground in Lehigh stands as a truly exceptional destination. Part of the expansive 6,500-acre Brushy Creek State Recreation Area, this campground offers a unique blend of modern amenities and vast natural landscapes, making it a premier choice for equestrian enthusiasts and general campers alike. It's a place where the thrill of trail riding meets the comfort of well-maintained facilities, all within the beautiful heart of Iowa.

Brushy Creek State Recreation Area is one of Iowa's largest and most diverse public recreation areas, managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Its mosaic of native prairie, grassland, timber, riparian zones, and the impressive 690-acre Brushy Creek Lake creates a dynamic environment for a wide array of activities. The South Equine Campground is specifically designed to cater to the needs of those who bring their horses, providing unparalleled facilities that are recognized as some of the most modern in the Midwest. However, it's also welcoming to non-equestrian campers who appreciate a spacious and well-equipped setting.

Customer reviews consistently praise the campground and its surroundings. Visitors have noted that "The camping at Brushy Creek was wonderful," and that "The riding was great though! Very hilly and not a ton of rock compared to other places with this type of terrain. The trails were very well groomed and taken care of. Also a beautiful lookout and river crossing." Another review simply states, "Great campground and nice trails." This feedback underscores the quality of the trails and the overall positive experience, highlighting why it's such a cherished spot for Iowa's outdoor community.

For local Iowans, the opportunity to combine camping with extensive horseback riding trails, alongside general recreation like hiking and fishing, makes Brushy Creek South Equine Campground an invaluable resource. It represents a commitment to providing high-quality outdoor experiences that cater to specific interests, fostering a deeper connection with Iowa's natural heritage. Whether you're an experienced rider or simply looking for a spacious and amenity-rich campground with access to diverse landscapes, Brushy Creek offers an adventure that's just a short drive away.

Brushy Creek South Equine Campground is located within the vast Brushy Creek State Recreation Area, with a general address of 3134 290th St, Lehigh, IA 50557, USA. This places it in Webster County, roughly 15 minutes west of Fort Dodge, Iowa. For Iowans, its location offers an ideal balance of being immersed in nature while remaining relatively accessible from major population centers.

Accessing the South Equine Campground is straightforward. Visitors from the south can get on County Road D46, which leads directly to the South Campground and South Day Use Area. For those coming from the north, from Highway 20, you can go south on P73, and then east on D46 to reach the southern section of the park. The roads leading to the campground are generally well-maintained, accommodating vehicles with horse trailers and RVs without issue. This ease of navigation is a significant benefit for local users, especially those hauling equestrian equipment, reducing the stress of travel and enhancing the overall trip.

While Brushy Creek State Recreation Area offers a feeling of being "away from it all" due to its sheer size (6,500 acres), its proximity to Fort Dodge and other smaller towns ensures that essential supplies and services are within reasonable reach. This means campers can easily resupply groceries, access veterinary services if needed for their horses, or enjoy local dining options without venturing too far from their natural retreat. The scenic drive through Iowa's countryside, often characterized by rolling hills and picturesque farms, sets the tone for a relaxing and engaging outdoor experience even before arrival.

Brushy Creek South Equine Campground is specifically designed to provide a comprehensive and comfortable experience for both equestrian and non-equestrian campers, boasting modern facilities that cater to diverse needs. The services offered underscore its reputation as a well-equipped outdoor destination in Iowa.

• Campsites: The South Equine Campground features a substantial number of sites, including electric and non-electric options, along with some full hookup sites (water and sewer). This variety accommodates different camping preferences, from RVs requiring full utilities to tents seeking a more traditional experience. Many sites offer ample shade.

• Modern Shower and Restroom Facilities: A key highlight for visitors, the campground includes a modern shower house with clean restrooms. This amenity provides the comfort of hot showers and flush toilets, greatly enhancing the camping experience.

• Horse Wash Area: Unique to equestrian campgrounds, a dedicated horse wash area is available, allowing riders to clean their horses after a day on the trails.

• Hitch Rails: Every equestrian campsite is equipped with a substantial hitch rail, and users are required to tie animals to these rails. This ensures the safety and well-being of the horses and prevents damage to park facilities.

• Potable Water Hydrants: Water hydrants with potable water are readily available throughout the campground, ensuring easy access to drinking water for both campers and their horses.

• Picnic Tables and Grills: Each campsite typically comes with a picnic table and a fire grill, perfect for enjoying outdoor meals and traditional campfires under the Iowa sky.

• Playground: A playground is on-site, providing a dedicated area for children to play and burn off energy, making the campground family-friendly.

• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is provided for RV campers, offering a convenient way to dispose of wastewater before leaving the park.

• Day Use Areas: Adjacent to the South Equine Campground, there are day-use staging areas. These offer facilities for day visitors, including pit latrines, and are often used by equestrians for day rides.

Brushy Creek South Equine Campground, as part of the larger Brushy Creek State Recreation Area, offers a wealth of features and highlights that make it a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts across Iowa. These attractions cater to a wide range of interests, with a particular emphasis on equestrian activities.

• Extensive Equestrian Trail System: A major highlight is the extensive network of horse and mule friendly trails, totaling approximately 50 miles throughout the recreation area. These "very well groomed and taken care of" trails wind through diverse terrain, including hilly sections, wooded areas, and along the lake shores, offering varied and engaging rides. Reviews often mention a "beautiful lookout and river crossing."

• Brushy Creek Lake: The park is home to a 690-acre lake, which is the deepest artificial permanent pool lake in Iowa. This "no wake" lake is ideal for non-motorized boating (canoeing, kayaking), paddleboarding, and offers excellent fishing opportunities. It is stocked with various fish species, including bluegill, crappie, largemouth bass, channel catfish, walleye, and muskellunge. There are also four boat ramps and eight fishing jetties, along with an accessible fishing pier.

• Multi-Use Trails: Beyond equestrian trails, the 45+ miles of multi-use trails are also open for hiking, mountain biking, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing in winter, providing year-round recreational options. A 12-mile gravel all-weather trail circles Brushy Creek Lake, offering picturesque views even when softer trails are closed due to wet conditions.

• Diverse Habitats for Nature Observation: The 6,500-acre park boasts a mosaic of native prairie, grassland, timber, and riparian habitats, making it a fantastic spot for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. Visitors can truly get a sense of being "away from it all" in this expansive natural setting.

• Shooting Ranges: For responsible firearms enthusiasts, Brushy Creek State Recreation Area includes two shooting ranges: a target range for paper targets and a clay target range, adding another unique recreational dimension.

• Swimming Beach: A designated sandy beach area provides a refreshing spot for swimming and sunbathing, especially during the warmer months.

• Picnic Areas and Shelters: Numerous picnic areas with tables and fire grills are available throughout the park. There are also three open shelters and four beach cabanas that can be reserved for larger gatherings or events.

• Youth Group Camping: In addition to the individual campsites, Brushy Creek offers youth group-only campsites, catering to organized youth outdoor programs.

As a state-managed recreation area, Brushy Creek South Equine Campground typically operates on a standard fee structure set by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), rather than running frequent promotional discounts. The value of camping at Brushy Creek lies in its extensive facilities, diverse activities, and the sheer scale of the natural environment it offers at a consistent, affordable rate.

Campsite fees vary based on the type of site and amenities:

• Equestrian - Standard Non-Electric sites often range from $16.00.

• Equestrian - Standard Electric sites can range from $16.00 to $24.00.

• Equestrian - Standard Full Hookup sites (water and sewer) typically cost $22.00 to $24.00.

• Equestrian - Buddy sites (larger sites for two basic camping units) can range from $32.00 to $48.00.

While specific promotions are not regularly advertised, visitors can often find information on special events or seasonal programs through the Iowa DNR website or by contacting the park office. For example, the park may host nature-related programs in the summer or geocaching and fishing derbies for kids in the spring, which add value to a visit without being direct price reductions.

It's important to note that reservations for campsites can be made online through the Iowa State Parks reservation system (iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com). While half of the campsites may be available on a first-come, first-serve basis, booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak seasons and weekends, as this popular park "fills up FAST" according to some insights. Any reservation or change fees are typically standard and outlined during the booking process.

For the most current information on rates, any potential unadvertised group rates for shelters, or specific seasonal offerings, it is always recommended to contact Brushy Creek State Recreation Area directly.

For comprehensive information, inquiries, or to make reservations for Brushy Creek South Equine Campground and the wider Brushy Creek State Recreation Area, you can use the following contact details:

Address: The physical address for Brushy Creek South Equine Campground is within the larger Brushy Creek State Recreation Area. The general mailing address for the park office is 2802 Brushy Creek Rd, Lehigh, IA 50557, USA.

Phone Number: The primary contact number for Brushy Creek State Recreation Area, which oversees the South Equine Campground, is (515) 543-8298. This number can be used for general inquiries, current trail conditions (especially important for equestrian users), facility information, and sometimes for direct reservation assistance, though online booking is often preferred.

Online Reservations: Campsite reservations, including for the South Equine Campground, are typically made through the Iowa State Parks online reservation system. You can access this via iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com. This platform provides detailed information on site availability, amenities, and fees.

Website: For general information, park maps, rules, and updates from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, visit the official Iowa DNR website for Brushy Creek State Recreation Area (e.g., iowadnr.gov/places-go/state-parks/all-parks/brushy-creek-state-recreation-area). This is also where you can find current alerts, such as temporary trail closures due to wet conditions.

It is always recommended to call ahead for current trail conditions, especially if you plan to ride horses, as trails may temporarily close due to wet weather to prevent degradation.

Brushy Creek South Equine Campground, nestled within the expansive Brushy Creek State Recreation Area, is an unparalleled destination for Iowans, particularly those with a passion for horses and the great outdoors. Its suitability for locals stems from a unique combination of accessibility, specialized facilities, and a diverse range of recreational opportunities that cater to a wide spectrum of interests.

For Iowa's equestrian community, Brushy Creek is a true gem. The South Equine Campground provides some of the most modern facilities in the Midwest, including electric and full hookup sites, dedicated horse wash areas, and substantial hitch rails at every site. This level of accommodation for horses is a significant draw, allowing riders to enjoy their passion comfortably and conveniently. The "Great campground and nice trails" sentiment from reviews directly reflects the high quality of the approximately 50 miles of well-groomed, varied equestrian trails, offering everything from challenging hilly terrain to scenic river crossings and beautiful lookouts.

Beyond equestrian pursuits, the broader Brushy Creek State Recreation Area offers something for every Iowan. The 690-acre no-wake lake is a haven for anglers and non-motorized boaters, providing excellent fishing for various species and tranquil waters for paddling. The extensive multi-use trail system, including the 12-mile gravel lake trail, is perfect for hikers, mountain bikers, and even snowmobilers and cross-country skiers in winter, ensuring year-round enjoyment. This variety means that families can easily find activities to suit everyone's preferences, making it a versatile local escape.

The modern amenities, such as well-maintained showers and restrooms, picnic tables, grills, and a playground, ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for all visitors, regardless of whether they bring horses. The strategic location near Fort Dodge provides a feeling of remote natural immersion while still offering convenient access to essential supplies and services, striking an ideal balance for a local getaway.

In essence, Brushy Creek South Equine Campground is more than just a campground; it's a vital part of Iowa's outdoor recreational landscape. It empowers local residents to explore the state's natural beauty, engage in specialized and general outdoor activities, and create lasting memories in a well-equipped and welcoming environment. It truly is a treasure for Iowans seeking adventure, relaxation, and a deep connection with nature, right in their own beautiful state.