Crooked Creek Horse Camp

For horse enthusiasts across Iowa, finding a campground that truly caters to both riders and their equine companions can be a challenge. Look no further than Crooked Creek Horse Camp in Farmington, Iowa. This dedicated equestrian campground is a true gem, offering a comfortable and accommodating base for exploring the vast and beautiful trails of nearby Shimek State Forest. It's a place where the love of horses and the joy of camping seamlessly intertwine, creating an unforgettable experience for Iowa locals.

Praised by visitors for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent facilities, Crooked Creek Horse Camp has quickly become a beloved destination. As one happy camper shared, they "Love this campground," highlighting the "easy 10 min ride to get to Shimek Forrest" and the "very accommodating" camp host. Another simply described it as a "Beautiful camp ground and very friendly people," underscoring the positive and community-oriented environment you'll find here. If you're an Iowan with horses, or simply someone looking to experience the unique charm of an equestrian-focused outdoor retreat, Crooked Creek Horse Camp promises a delightful stay.

Crooked Creek Horse Camp is strategically located at 2581 Belfast Rd, Farmington, IA 52626, USA. This address places it in the southeastern corner of Iowa, a region known for its rolling hills, diverse woodlands, and extensive state forests like the sprawling Shimek State Forest. The camp's direct proximity to Shimek Forest is a major draw, offering riders incredibly convenient access to miles of designated horse trails.

Farmington is a smaller community, but its location makes the campground reasonably accessible from various parts of Iowa. While a true sense of rural tranquility defines the area, major routes are within a reasonable drive, making it practical for visitors to bring their horse trailers and RVs. The short "10 min ride" to Shimek Forest emphasizes how well-positioned this camp is for maximizing your time on the trails. It's a perfect blend of peaceful seclusion and practical access to premier riding opportunities.

• Equestrian Campsites: Crooked Creek Horse Camp is designed specifically for those camping with horses. While the exact number of sites can vary, it is configured to accommodate horse trailers and provide necessary amenities for horses.

• Horse Stalls: A key feature highlighted by a customer review is the presence of "Nice stalls," indicating dedicated and well-maintained enclosures for horses, providing security and comfort for your equine companions overnight.

• Fire Pit Areas: Campers can enjoy traditional campfire experiences, as the campground provides designated "fire pit area" at sites, perfect for evening gatherings and cooking.

• Accommodating Camp Host: Visitors consistently praise the "very accommodating" camp host, suggesting a friendly and helpful on-site presence to assist campers with their needs and ensure a pleasant stay.

• Access to Water: While specific details on water hookups for individual sites are not widely available, horse camps typically offer central water sources for both human and equine use. The availability of water is crucial for a comfortable equestrian camping experience.

• Friendly Atmosphere: Reviews frequently mention the "very friendly people" at the campground, indicating a welcoming and community-oriented environment where fellow horse enthusiasts can connect.

• Trailer Parking: Given its focus on horse camping, ample space for parking horse trailers and RVs is an inherent service, ensuring ease of access and setup.

• Direct Access to Shimek State Forest: The most significant highlight is its direct and easy access to Shimek State Forest. This vast forest offers nearly 60 miles of multi-use trails, including extensive equestrian trails that wind through rugged hills, deep woodlands, and along various water features. The "easy 10 min ride to get to Schimek Forrest" is a major convenience for daily trail excursions.

• Dedicated Equestrian Facilities: The "nice stalls" and explicit design as a "Horse Camp" mean that the facilities are purpose-built for horse owners, providing the specific infrastructure needed for comfortable and safe horse camping.

• Beautiful Natural Setting: Located within the picturesque landscape of southeastern Iowa, the camp offers scenic views and a tranquil environment, allowing campers to truly immerse themselves in nature.

• Vast Trail Network: Shimek State Forest comprises several units (like Lick Creek, Farmington, Donnellson, Croton, and Keosauqua Units), all contributing to the extensive trail system accessible from the camp. This provides endless opportunities for varied rides, from gentle paths to more challenging terrain.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The forest environment surrounding the camp is home to diverse wildlife, including white-tailed deer and turkey, offering chances for nature observation during rides or quiet moments at camp.

• Sense of Community: Equestrian campgrounds often foster a strong sense of community among like-minded individuals. The "friendly people" mentioned in reviews suggest that Crooked Creek Horse Camp is a place where camaraderie thrives.

• Perfect for Multi-Day Rides: With comfortable accommodations for both riders and horses, the camp serves as an ideal base for multi-day trail riding adventures, allowing for deeper exploration of Shimek Forest.

• Peaceful Retreat: Away from urban noise, the camp offers a quiet and peaceful environment, perfect for unwinding after a day on the trails or simply enjoying the serenity of the Iowa countryside.

Address: 2581 Belfast Rd, Farmington, IA 52626, USA

Phone: (319) 470-8899

Mobile Phone: +1 319-470-8899

For reservations, current availability, or any specific inquiries about the camp's facilities and rules, contacting Crooked Creek Horse Camp directly via the provided phone numbers is the best course of action. Given its specific niche as an equestrian campground, direct communication will ensure you have the most up-to-date and relevant information for your visit.

For Iowa locals, especially those with a passion for horseback riding, Crooked Creek Horse Camp is an indispensable resource and a truly unique camping destination. Its primary suitability lies in its dedicated equestrian focus, offering amenities like "nice stalls" that specifically cater to the needs of horse owners. This specialization means you're among fellow enthusiasts who understand and appreciate the joys and necessities of horse camping.

The camp's greatest asset is its incredible proximity and easy access to the vast trail network of Shimek State Forest. Being just a "10 min ride" away from some of Iowa's best equestrian trails transforms a simple camping trip into a grand riding adventure. This direct connection to a major trail system, combined with the comfortable camp facilities, makes it perfect for weekend getaways or longer riding excursions without the hassle of extensive travel to a riding destination.

Furthermore, the consistently positive reviews praising the "accommodating" camp host and "friendly people" highlight the welcoming and supportive atmosphere you'll encounter. This sense of community among riders is a significant draw, fostering connections and shared experiences. For Iowans seeking a genuine and well-equipped horse camping experience, a tranquil outdoor escape, and direct access to expansive riding trails, Crooked Creek Horse Camp is a top-tier choice that promises both comfort and adventure right in your home state.

Crooked Creek Horse Camp

2581 Belfast Rd, Farmington, IA 52626, USA