Park that Offers Horse Campsites

Located in the Western Coulee and Ridges landscape of the state, this park is set on more the 5,000 acres of valley, bluffs, and hills. There are two lakes and a waterfall on the grounds, as well as numerous activities and camping options. There are eight group campsites that accommodate between 15 and 90 people. These are tent only sites and feature picnic tables, a fire ring, and pit toilets. Backpack campsites are located in the Hickory Ridge group camp area. You will have to hike about half a mile from where you park your car in order to use these sites. Water and pit toilets are near parking, so plan to haul water with you, and make the trek back if you are going to need a pit toilet. The horse sites, which there are eleven of, are open from May through the first part of November. You will need a vehicle admission sticker and trailer pass. Because they are popular, and space is limited, reservations are suggested. Each of the sites features tethering poles, but you will need your own ropes.

The park makes every attempt to provide a rustic environment coupled with comfort for visitors. There are snacks and camping supplies available at the Cox Hollow Bach concession stand during the season. If you will need other supplies, or you are camping out of season, you can travel into Dodgeville, located about three miles south of the park. Firewood can be purchased in the Twin Valley or Cox Hollow campgrounds June through August, and weekends during May, September, and October. It is preferred that you use area firewood to avoid transporting harmful pests that can destroy the forest. Two Laundromats are located in Dodgeville, if you should need laundry services. From 11:00 pm to 8:00 am is considered quiet hours at the park, so please observe the rules if you are camping during this time.

The park features a variety of activities including picnic tables and shelters. Shelters can be reserved for special events, and you should contact the park office for reservation information if this is something you are interested in doing. Remember, no garbage bins or recycling bins are provided in the picnic areas so people will carry their trash out of the park when they leave. This carry in-carry out rule helps keep the park clean and safe for everyone.

Those with a desire to hunt in the park are welcome to do with a special permit. Areas are open for deer, turkey, and small game all season. Small game hunting periods close at noon each day. There are various seasonal regulations listed on the park's website, so if you are planning to hunt, be sure to check the site for details and timing.

One of the biggest draws to this park is its geological features. It was a series of four glaciers that moved across the northern part of the United States and "peeled'' off hilltops and filled valleys throughout the Midwest. These occurrences did not happen in southwestern Wisconsin, leaving the hills and valleys of the state park intact. It is known as a drift less area because the debris and drift that accumulated following the movement of the glaciers is not present. The bluffs in the park date back 450 million years, when much of the area was covered by the seas. An exciting hiking destination, Governor Dodge State Park offers nature at its best.