Looking for a rustic and comfortable horse camping experience near North Umpqua River Recreation Area? Whether you own a horse or are joining a tour group, equestrian camping is an adventurous and unique way to experience the city. Search nearby equestrian campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.
This recreation area is part of Dewey Lake
Hidden deep under the northeast forests of Kentucky, strange formations with names like Giant Turkey, Headache Rock, and The Cathedral mingle with cave corals, underground waterfalls and thousands of endangered bats. This is what awaits visitors to Carter Caves State Resort Park, approximately 90 miles east of Lexington. The park was only established, and the cave environments protected, in 1946. Prior to this, the land—and caves—have a long and storied history. It begins millions of years ago, when North America was in its development stage, with the land rising and falling, cracking and washing away. This began forming the caves as seen today. Fast-forward to the 1800s, and the caves served as a resource during the War of 1812. Today however, this 2000-acre park—both above and below ground—serves as a recreation destination for campers and adventurers.
The resort at Carter Caves offers a variety of overnight options, including camping, cottages and a lodge. Campers will find a large campground with 89 RV sites with utilities, 30 primitive tent sites, eight equestrian sites, and two bunkhouses. Most RV sites are back-in, and can accommodate vehicles/trailers up to 60 feet; bunkhouses can accommodate up to six people. The campground features bathhouses with showers, water faucets, picnic shelters, horse stables, and a playground. The park’s cottages are fully equipped with linens, cookware, and most have wood-burning fireplaces; these can accommodate up to eight people. The Lewis Caveland Lodge offers 28 rooms with full amenities, balconies and patios. Dogs are permitted in designated areas, and must remain leashed. Campsite rates are $18–$55/night; cottages and lodge rooms are $75–$240/night.
The main attraction at Carter Caves State Resort Park is … the caves! There are six named caves in the park for exploring. Some are open year-round, some are only open during the summer. The park offers guided walking tours in four of the caves. Tours range from 45 minutes to 2.5 hours, and require some stair-climbing and stooping. There are also two caves open for self-exploration. These are undeveloped, and require visitors to provide their own light source. For the adventurous, there are also two cave crawling expeditions. These tours are three hours long, and explore tight, undeveloped passages that require lots of crawling, stooping and duck-walking in muddy conditions. For visitors who would rather stay and play above ground, the park features 26 miles of hiking trails, guided horseback rides, putt-putt golf, rock climbing, and fishing and paddling on Smoky Valley Lake.
Nestled on the shores of Cave Run Lake, this camp is part of the larger Twin Knobs Recreation Area. There are more than 200 sites spread out over 10 loops under a dense forest of mixed conifer and deciduous trees. The recreation area includes two reservable group picnic areas. Group camping is also available.
Summer amphitheater programs and scheduled campground activities provide family fun and entertainment. The campground also has volleyball courts, basketball hoops and horseshoe pits. There is a boat ramp and beach. Popular lake activities include fishing, swimming, motor boating, windsurfing, sailing and water skiing. Scenic foot trails include the 2.5-mile Twin Knobs Shoreline Trail and the 1.5-mile Knob Overlook Trail.
There is a variety of different camp sites that include paved spurs that can accommodate any size RV, picnic tables, fire rings and grills. Some sites have electric hookups. Facilities include bathhouses with showers, drinking water and flush toilets. The bathhouses and some picnic areas are accessible.
The Daniel Boone National Forest embraces some of the most rugged terrain west of the Appalachian Mountains. The forest lies within the Cumberland Plateau, where steep forested slopes, sandstone cliffs and narrow ravines characterize the land in this region. Cave Run Lake is in the Cumberland District in the northernmost part of the forest. The lake is surrounded by the rolling hills of northeastern Kentucky.
The Morehead Office Visitor Center offers information about the Daniel Boone National Forest in addition to interpretive exhibits. A popular attraction within the Daniel Boone National Forest is the Red River Gorge Geological Area, which features more than 100 natural sandstone arches.
$40 - $43 / night
Greenbo Lake State Resort Park, nestled near Greenup, KY, is a gem for campers looking for a mix of relaxation and outdoor activities. The campground operates from April 1 to October 31 and offers a variety of accommodations for both tent and RV campers.
One of the standout features here is the full hook-up sites, though not all of them have this amenity, so make sure to check the details when booking. The campground is big rig friendly, but some sites have steep grades, so plan accordingly. Pets are welcome, and the place is very pet-friendly, which is always a plus for those traveling with furry companions.
The campground has a lot to offer in terms of amenities. There are clean bathrooms and showers, a sanitary dump, and even a market for those last-minute supplies. If you enjoy a good campfire, you'll be pleased to know that fires are allowed, and firewood is available on-site. For those who like to stay connected, there is WiFi, though it can be slow and spotty.
Visitors have mentioned that the campground is quiet and family-oriented, with plenty of shade and scenic spots by the stream. There are also two play areas for kids and a beautiful lake that's perfect for kayaking. If you're into fishing, the lake is a great spot, but keep an eye on your gear as there have been occasional reports of theft.
The nearby lodge offers additional amenities, though some have noted that the food could be better. Still, the lodge provides a nice alternative if you want a break from camp cooking.
Overall, Greenbo Lake State Resort Park is a solid choice for a camping trip, offering a good mix of natural beauty and practical amenities. Just remember to bring your own putter and ball if you plan to use the putt-putt course!
$16 / night
$20 / night
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near North Umpqua River Recreation Area?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near North Umpqua River Recreation Area is Jenny Wiley State Park Campground with a 3.3-star rating from 15 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near North Umpqua River Recreation Area?
TheDyrt.com has all 9 equestrian camping locations near North Umpqua River Recreation Area, with real photos and reviews from campers.
