Equestrian Campground

For horse enthusiasts across Iowa, finding the perfect campground that caters to both rider and equine companion is paramount. Look no further than the Equestrian Campground at Lake of Three Fires State Park in Bedford, Iowa. This dedicated facility is specifically designed with the needs of horseback riders in mind, offering not just a place to stay, but a gateway to miles of scenic trails and a supportive environment for your equestrian adventures. It’s a cherished destination for those who love to explore Iowa’s natural beauty from the saddle, fostering a community of passionate riders.

The thoughtfulness of this campground's design and amenities is frequently praised by those who utilize it. As one detailed review highlights, "The equestrian campground (Sites 63-85) provides places to park your camper/horse trailers. Eight of the sites have electrical hookups, 15 sites are non-electrical. Any can be reserved through the IowaDNR website. There are a number of smaller corrals associated with some of the sites which can be reserved, as well as hitch rails for each campsite. Wheelbarrow carts are provided so you can clean up and transport the straw and manure to a nearby pile." This level of specific accommodation for horses and their care truly sets this campground apart, demonstrating a deep understanding of equestrian needs.

Beyond the excellent site features, the experience of riding is also a major draw. The same reviewer noted, "There are a number of trails available that can go completely around the lake. The shortest full loop is approximately 4 miles, while 5 to 6 mile loops are possible." The variety of trail lengths means riders can choose adventures to suit their skill level and time constraints. A critical piece of advice provided by regulars is to "Calling ahead to check on conditions is highly recommended before making reservations or just showing up. (712) 523-2700." This proactive tip ensures that riders can plan their visit around optimal trail conditions, especially given that trails can be closed due to wetness. With recent additions of new pull-through sites, including those designed for easier access to shower facilities, Lake of Three Fires State Park's Equestrian Campground continues to evolve, enhancing the experience for Iowa's dedicated equestrian community.

The Equestrian Campground is an integral part of Lake of Three Fires State Park, located at 2288 Lake Rd, Bedford, IA 50833, USA. This picturesque location places it in Taylor County, nestled in the scenic southwest region of Iowa. The park itself spans 691 acres, with an 85-acre lake serving as a focal point for recreation and providing a beautiful backdrop for camping and trail riding.

Accessibility to Lake of Three Fires State Park and its Equestrian Campground is generally straightforward for Iowa residents. The park is situated approximately 3 miles northwest of the town of Bedford, a small community that can provide basic services and supplies if needed. The approach to the park is via well-maintained roads, making it manageable for vehicles towing horse trailers and campers. The specific address provided, 2288 Lake Rd, leads directly to the park's entrance, from which the equestrian area is clearly signed.

While offering a peaceful rural escape, the campground remains within a reasonable driving distance for many equestrian enthusiasts across the state, particularly those in southern and central Iowa. The ability to pull right into the campground with your trailer and directly access the trails minimizes travel-related stress and maximizes time spent enjoying the outdoors with your horse. Furthermore, the detailed review mentions a day-use parking area at the front of the equestrian section, allowing those who are just coming for a ride to easily access the trails without needing a campsite. This thoughtful design ensures broad accessibility for all types of equestrians in the region.

The Equestrian Campground at Lake of Three Fires State Park offers a comprehensive suite of services specifically tailored to the needs of horseback riders and their equine companions:

• Dedicated Campsites for Equestrians: The campground features Sites 63-85, designed to accommodate campers and horse trailers. Additionally, six new pull-through equestrian sites (#57-62) have been added, specifically for trailers 32ft or shorter, providing easier access to facilities.
• Electrical Hookups: A significant portion of the sites offer electrical hookups (8 sites in the main equestrian campground, with the status of new sites to be confirmed but a hydrant nearby suggests water access). This provides convenience for modern campers and their equipment.
• Non-Electrical Sites: For those preferring a more rustic experience or requiring less amenities, 15 non-electrical sites are available.
• Horse Accommodations: Crucially, sites include hitch rails for each campsite. Many sites also have smaller corrals that can be reserved, ensuring a secure and designated space for horses. Plans are in place to include hitching posts and corrals with the new pull-through sites.
• Manure Management System: The campground provides wheelbarrow carts for easy cleanup and transport of straw and manure to a nearby designated pile, demonstrating excellent waste management for equestrian users.
• Restroom Facilities: An RR building (restroom) with men's and women's sides is located within the equestrian area. Additionally, the main campground's modern restroom and shower building is available for use during open seasons, offering hot showers and flush toilets.
• Reservable Sites: All sites in the equestrian campground (both electrical and non-electrical) can be reserved through the Iowa DNR website, allowing campers to plan their trips in advance.
• Day-Use Parking: A number of parking spaces are available in a dedicated day-use area at the front of the equestrian section, accommodating those who visit solely for trail riding without overnight camping.

The Equestrian Campground at Lake of Three Fires State Park stands out with several key features and highlights that make it a premier destination for horseback riders in Iowa:

• Extensive Equestrian Trail System: The park boasts a robust network of trails that cater specifically to horseback riding. Reviewers mention trails that "can go completely around the lake," with loops ranging from approximately 4 miles to 5 or 6 miles, offering diverse riding experiences.
• Direct Trail Access from Campground: A major convenience is the ability to access the park's multi-use trails directly from the equestrian campground, minimizing the need for additional transportation.
• Dedicated Horse Facilities at Campsites: The provision of hitch rails at every site and reservable corrals for specific sites demonstrates a strong focus on equestrian needs, ensuring the comfort and safety of horses.
• Specialized Manure Management: The availability of wheelbarrow carts and a designated manure pile highlights the campground's commitment to maintaining cleanliness within the equestrian area, a critical feature for horse owners.
• Modern Restroom and Shower Access: While the equestrian area has its own basic restrooms, the proximity and access to the "RR and shower building in the nearby main campground" with modern facilities are a significant comfort highlight for campers.
• Variety of Campsite Options: With both electrical and non-electrical sites, including new pull-through options for shorter trailers, the campground offers flexibility to suit various camping styles and equipment.
• Day-Use Riding Access: The designated day-use parking area allows riders to enjoy the trails without needing an overnight stay, expanding accessibility for local equestrians.
• Pavilion and Fire Pit: A small pavilion with picnic tables and a fire pit in the equestrian area provides a communal gathering space for riders to relax and socialize.
• Dynamic Trail Conditions Communication: The park’s commitment to informing visitors about trail closures due to wetness (via a sign at the entrance and phone line) is a crucial feature, helping riders plan safely and avoid disappointment.
• Scenic Lake Environment: The trails winding around Lake of Three Fires provide picturesque views and a serene natural backdrop for riding, enhancing the overall experience.

As a state park campground managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Equestrian Campground at Lake of Three Fires State Park operates under a standardized fee structure, rather than offering traditional commercial "promotions" or "special offers." However, there are aspects of its operation and reservation system that provide clear value and accessibility for Iowa residents:

• Standardized State Park Camping Fees: The rates for both electrical and non-electrical sites are set by the Iowa DNR and are generally considered affordable for access to well-maintained facilities and extensive trails. These fees contribute to the upkeep of the park and its equestrian amenities.
• Online Reservation System: The ability to reserve sites (including those with corrals) through the IowaDNR website or ReserveAmerica is a significant convenience. This allows equestrians to plan their trips well in advance, especially during peak seasons, ensuring they have a spot for themselves and their horses. This avoids the uncertainty of first-come, first-served camping.
• First-Come, First-Serve Options: While reservations are encouraged, it's possible that some sites (or a portion of them) might be held for first-come, first-serve arrivals, offering flexibility for spontaneous trips. However, for equestrian sites, reservations are often recommended.
• Value of Dedicated Facilities: The "promotion" here is the dedicated infrastructure for horses—hitching posts, reservable corrals, and manure management tools. This specialized offering, often at a reasonable state park rate, provides immense value to horse owners compared to other general campgrounds.
• Trail Condition Communication: While not a discount, the proactive communication about trail closures due to wetness (via park entrance signage and phone calls to 712-523-2700) is a valuable service. It saves riders from traveling long distances only to find trails unusable, ensuring a more productive and enjoyable visit.
• Recent Site Additions: The ongoing development, such as the six new pull-through sites (#57-62) with plans for water, electricity, hitching posts, and corrals, demonstrates continuous investment in enhancing the value and comfort for equestrian campers.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on current fees, site availability, and to make a reservation, visitors should always consult the official Iowa DNR website or use the specific reservation platform for Iowa State Parks.

Planning your next equestrian adventure at Lake of Three Fires State Park's Equestrian Campground? Here’s the key contact information to help you prepare:

• Address: 2288 Lake Rd, Bedford, IA 50833, USA
• Park Office Phone: (712) 523-2700

This phone number is highly recommended for calling ahead, especially to check on critical trail conditions. As highlighted by a reviewer, "Calling ahead to check on conditions is highly recommended before making reservations or just showing up. (712) 523-2700." This is particularly important due to potential trail closures caused by rain, snowmelt, or muddy areas.

For making reservations for campsites (Sites 63-85 and the new Sites 57-62), you should utilize the Iowa DNR website's reservation system. While the phone number is excellent for general park and trail condition inquiries, online platforms are typically used for booking specific sites.

For Iowans with a passion for horseback riding and camping, the Equestrian Campground at Lake of Three Fires State Park stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly valued local resource. Its dedicated facilities, extensive trail system, and strategic location make it a premier destination for residents seeking an immersive equestrian experience within our beautiful state.

Firstly, this campground is custom-built for the Iowa equestrian community. The provision of specific sites for horse trailers and campers, complete with electrical hookups and the crucial addition of hitch rails and reservable corrals, directly addresses the unique needs of horse owners. The thoughtful inclusion of wheelbarrow carts for manure management further underscores its suitability, making the practical aspects of horse camping much easier for locals who value well-maintained facilities. This specialization means Iowans don't have to compromise on comfort or convenience when camping with their beloved horses.

Secondly, the trails themselves are a major draw. With "a number of trails available that can go completely around the lake," offering loops from 4 to 6 miles, riders have ample opportunity to explore the scenic beauty of Lake of Three Fires State Park. This provides varied terrain and engaging rides right at their doorstep, fulfilling the desire for adventure without extensive travel. The park's commitment to communicating trail conditions, especially regarding closures due to wetness, demonstrates a practical understanding of rider needs, allowing locals to plan their visits effectively and safely.

Furthermore, its location in southwest Iowa makes it an accessible and convenient destination for a significant portion of the state's equestrian population. Being able to pack up the trailer and arrive at a facility explicitly designed for them, with direct access to quality trails, fosters a sense of belonging and community for local riders. The continuous improvements, such as the addition of new pull-through sites with plans for more amenities, show that the park is committed to evolving with the needs of its loyal local users.

In conclusion, Lake of Three Fires State Park's Equestrian Campground is not just a place to camp; it's a hub for Iowa's equestrian enthusiasts. It offers the specialized amenities, beautiful trails, and responsive management that make it an indispensable and cherished destination for locals to pursue their passion for horseback riding and create lasting memories in the heart of Iowa.