Brushy Creek North Equestrian Campground

For Iowa locals passionate about the outdoors, especially those with a love for horses and extensive trail systems, Brushy Creek North Equestrian Campground in Lehigh offers an unparalleled experience. As a vital part of the vast Brushy Creek State Recreation Area, this campground is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a gateway to one of Iowa's premier outdoor destinations. Imagine the true spirit of Americana, with horseback riders traversing scenic trails and a vibrant community enjoying the natural beauty of the Hawkeye State.

Brushy Creek State Recreation Area spans an impressive 6,500 acres, boasting a diverse landscape of native prairie, grassland, timber, riparian areas, and a substantial 690-acre lake. The North Equestrian Campground is specifically designed to cater to horse enthusiasts, featuring modern facilities that make it one of the most well-equipped equestrian campgrounds in the Midwest. However, its appeal extends beyond just riders; general campers can also find spacious and comfortable sites within this beautiful setting, allowing everyone to enjoy the extensive trail network and recreational opportunities.

Visitors frequently commend the campground for its "great spot" and the overall "beautiful campground," particularly during the fall when the foliage transforms into a stunning array of colors. The blend of modern conveniences with direct access to extensive natural areas creates a unique and highly desirable camping experience. Whether you're bringing your horses for a trail adventure, casting a line into the well-stocked lake, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, Brushy Creek North Equestrian Campground provides a comprehensive and engaging outdoor escape for all Iowans.

Brushy Creek North Equestrian Campground is located within the expansive Brushy Creek State Recreation Area, near Lehigh, IA 50557, USA. This prominent location in Webster County, Iowa, makes it a central hub for outdoor activities in the region. The address typically provided for the overall recreation area is 3175 290th Street, Lehigh, IA 50557, which serves as a general point of reference for accessing the various facilities, including the North Equestrian Campground.

The state recreation area is highly accessible via Iowa's well-maintained road network. It's approximately 15 miles north of Fort Dodge, a larger urban center that provides a wider range of services, supplies, and dining options. This proximity allows campers to enjoy the tranquility of the park while still having convenient access to necessities. Lehigh itself is a smaller town, offering a quaint local experience.

Accessibility within the recreation area is also well-managed, with clear signage directing visitors to the North Equestrian Campground. The park boasts an extensive network of over 45 miles of multi-use trails, accessible directly from the campground, catering to horseback riders, hikers, and mountain bikers. This integrated trail system is a significant draw, allowing campers to easily venture out and explore the diverse landscapes of Brushy Creek.

For water enthusiasts, the 690-acre Brushy Creek Lake is readily accessible from various points within the recreation area. The campground's location provides convenient routes to fishing jetties and boat ramps around the lake, making it easy to enjoy fishing, boating, and other water activities. This combination of extensive recreational access and convenient location makes Brushy Creek North Equestrian Campground a premier destination for Iowa locals.

• 125 campsites, with 50 offering electrical hookups (and planned upgrades to 50-amp service on 60 sites).
• Modern shower and restroom facilities within the campground (a second shower/toilet building is planned for future construction).
• A dedicated horse wash area for equestrian campers.
• Ample shade provided by mature trees within the campground.
• Substantial hitch rails at every equestrian site, with users required to tie animals to rails.
• Potable water hydrants available throughout the campground.
• Picnic tables and fire grills at each campsite for outdoor dining and campfires.
• A playground for children, making it family-friendly.
• Access to approximately 45 miles of multi-use trails directly from the campground for horseback riding, hiking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and mountain biking.
• Day-use staging areas near the equestrian campground for those visiting for the day.
• Close proximity to fishing jetties and boat ramps on Brushy Creek Lake.
• Seasonal operation, with specific opening and closing dates managed by the Iowa DNR.
• Advance campsite reservations available online through the park reservation system.

• Premier Equestrian Facilities: The campground is renowned for being one of the most modern equestrian facilities in the Midwest, offering electric hookups, a horse wash area, and substantial hitch rails at every site. This makes it a top choice for horse riders.
• Extensive Multi-Use Trail System: With approximately 45 miles of trails, the Brushy Creek State Recreation Area provides vast opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing directly from the campground.
• Modern Amenities: The presence of modern shower and restroom facilities, as well as potable water hydrants, enhances the comfort of camping, contrasting with more primitive options.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: The campground is "close to fishing jetties" on the 690-acre Brushy Creek Lake, which is stocked with bluegill, crappie, largemouth bass, channel catfish, walleye, and muskellunge, offering "great fishing" as noted by visitors.
• Beautiful Natural Setting: Especially in the fall, the campground is described as "beautiful," offering picturesque views and a serene environment, making it a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities.
• Family-Friendly Environment: The inclusion of a playground caters to families with children, ensuring entertainment for younger campers.
• Spacious Sites: Even for tent campers without horses, the sites are noted to be "very spacious and grassy," providing ample room for a comfortable setup.
• Vibrant Americana Feel: The presence of numerous horseback riders and the overall outdoor activity create a lively yet authentic "Americana" atmosphere.
• Day-Use Accessibility: Visitors can utilize day-use staging areas at no charge, providing flexible access to the trails and amenities for shorter visits.

Address: 3175 290th Street, Lehigh, IA 50557, USA (General address for Brushy Creek State Recreation Area, within which the campground is located.)

Phone: (515) 543-8298 (This is the contact number for Brushy Creek State Park, which manages the campground.)

For reservations, it is recommended to use the Iowa DNR park reservation system online.

For Iowans seeking a truly immersive and active outdoor experience, Brushy Creek North Equestrian Campground offers a compelling destination right in their home state. Its unique blend of modern camping facilities, an extensive multi-use trail system, and access to a large, well-stocked lake makes it a versatile and highly appealing choice for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. If you're a local with horses, a passion for hiking or biking, or simply a love for fishing and beautiful natural scenery, this campground provides an ideal setting.

The consistent positive feedback highlights the campground's appeal: it's a "great spot" with "beautiful" surroundings, especially in the fall. The opportunity to witness "Americana at its finest" with horseback riders adds a unique charm that's hard to find elsewhere. Despite its focus on equestrians, the campground's spacious sites and modern amenities make it welcoming for all campers. Its proximity to 45 miles of trails and prime fishing spots ensures that there's always an adventure waiting just outside your RV or tent.

Brushy Creek North Equestrian Campground embodies the best of Iowa's outdoor recreation opportunities. It allows locals to fully embrace the natural beauty and active lifestyle that the state offers, all within a convenient and well-maintained environment. Whether for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, this campground promises a memorable experience filled with natural beauty and abundant recreational possibilities, solidifying its place as a top choice for Iowa adventurers.

Brushy Creek North Equestrian Campground

Lehigh, IA 50557, USA