Top Equestrian Camping near Friendship, OH
Looking for the best horse camping near Friendship? Finding a place to stay in Ohio while traveling with your horse is easy. Search nearby equestrian campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Looking for the best horse camping near Friendship? Finding a place to stay in Ohio while traveling with your horse is easy. Search nearby equestrian campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.
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.
Welcome to Shawnee State Park Campground, nestled in the scenic hills near West Portsmouth, Ohio. This place is a haven for those who love the great outdoors, offering year-round camping with a variety of accommodations including tents, RVs, cabins, and even glamping options.
One of the standout features here is the seclusion of the tent sites. They're tucked away in the woods, providing a private and peaceful camping experience. If you're into hiking, you'll love the trails that start right from the campground, winding through the hilly terrain and offering some truly beautiful views.
For families, there's plenty to keep everyone entertained. The campground boasts a small lake perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding, and there's even a mini-golf course and an outdoor movie theater. Kids will love the playground, and the nature center offers educational activities and trails to explore.
Amenities are top-notch, with electric hookups, drinking water, and clean shower houses with flush toilets. Pets are welcome, and you can easily find picnic tables and fire rings at most sites. There's also a small campground store for any essentials you might need, though it's closed during the off-season.
Visitors have praised the friendly and helpful camp hosts, as well as the well-maintained grounds. The park is known for its quiet, peaceful atmosphere, making it a great spot to relax and unwind. Just be sure to bring all your supplies, as the nearest town isn't too close.
Whether you're here for the hiking, the lake activities, or just to enjoy some time in nature, Shawnee State Park Campground offers a fantastic escape from the hustle and bustle.
$24 / 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!
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
Iron Ridge is one of two campgrounds in the Vesuvius Recreation Area in southeastern Ohio's Wayne National Forest. Iron Ridge offers a great location for outdoor recreation, with activities like boating, swimming and fishing on Lake Vesuvius. Horseback riding and hiking are also available in the rolling hills surrounding the campground.
Boating, fishing and swimming on Lake Vesuvius are the area's most popular activities. Anglers may catch bass, catfish, crappie or bluegill. More than 40 miles of trails exist in the area, with trailheads beginning at or near the campground. A 1/2-mile hiking trail connects the campground to Lake Vesuvius. Lake Shore Trail offers an 8-mile loop around the lake and shorter trails lead to Rock House Cave, a grand, tunnel-like sandstone cave that was once used by Native Americans for shelter.
Boating, fishing and swimming on Lake Vesuvius are the area's most popular activities. Anglers may catch bass, catfish, crappie or bluegill. More than 40 miles of trails exist in the area, with trailheads beginning at or near the campground. A 1/2-mile hiking trail connects the campground to Lake Vesuvius. Lake Shore Trail offers an 8-mile loop around the lake and shorter trails lead to Rock House Cave, a grand, tunnel-like sandstone cave that was once used by Native Americans for shelter.
Iron Ridge Campground is located on a wooded ridge above 143-acre Lake Vesuvius. A scenic forest of mature eastern hardwoods covers the area.
The closest town is Ironton, Ohio, less than 10 miles from the campground.
Welcome to Pike Lake State Park Campground, nestled near Bainbridge, Ohio. This spot is a gem for those who appreciate a laid-back camping experience with a touch of nature's beauty. The campground is open year-round, making it a great destination no matter the season.
One of the standout features here is the abundance of shade provided by the trees, which is perfect for setting up a hammock or just relaxing under the canopy. The campground has a mix of tent, RV, and cabin accommodations, so there's something for everyone. Many sites are situated along a pretty running stream, adding a soothing backdrop to your stay.
For those who enjoy hiking, the trails around here are a highlight, especially in the fall when the leaves are changing. The Greenbriar and CCC Trails offer beautiful, albeit sometimes overgrown, paths through the park. If you're into fishing or kayaking, the small lake provides a peaceful spot to cast a line or paddle around.
The campground has been recently renovated, boasting newly paved roads and camp pads. The bathrooms are clean and modern, with four unisex toilets and showers available. There's also a camp store stocked with essentials, so if you forget something, they've got you covered.
Families will appreciate the playgrounds, and pet owners will be glad to know that pets are welcome. Just a heads-up, though: the ground here doesn't drain well, so be prepared for some muddy spots if it rains.
Overall, Pike Lake State Park Campground offers a mix of tranquility and outdoor activities, making it a great spot for a weekend getaway or a longer stay. Enjoy your time here and make the most of the natural beauty and amenities!
Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area, named for the old Vesuvius iron furnace, is the Wayne National Forest's premier developed recreation site. The 143-acre lake and 1,200-acre complex provides the perfect spot for a getaway.
Lake Vesuvius is a popular location for swimming and fishing. Anglers may catch bass, catfish, crappie and bluegill. A boat ramp is located on-site. A swimming beach is located at Big Bend. A large playing field and multiple hiking trails are available within the recreation area. The accessible 1/3-mile boardwalk along the southwest edge of the lake provides an opportunity for a leisurely stroll through the area, and the slightly longer 1/2-mile Longbow Archery Trail, accesses at least 25 field targets for shooting practice. The area boasts more than 25 miles of hiking trails and more than 45 miles of horseback riding trails.
Lake Vesuvius is a popular location for swimming and fishing. Anglers may catch bass, catfish, crappie and bluegill. A boat ramp is located on-site. A swimming beach is located at Big Bend. A large playing field and multiple hiking trails are available within the recreation area. The accessible 1/3-mile boardwalk along the southwest edge of the lake provides an opportunity for a leisurely stroll through the area, and the slightly longer 1/2-mile Longbow Archery Trail, accesses at least 25 field targets for shooting practice. The area boasts more than 25 miles of hiking trails and more than 45 miles of horseback riding trails.
The lake sits on Storms Creek, which was dammed in 1939 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The rugged hills and rock outcroppings offer a scenic backdrop for this beautiful recreation area. The historic Vesuvius iron furnace is located at the base of the dam.
The closest town is Ironton, Ohio, less than 10 miles from the campground.
$52 / night
A 58-site primitive equestrian campground with latrines is available near Bear Lake in Shawnee State Forest.
The horse camp includes 58 campsites with tie rails, latrines, and water for horses. Shawnee State Forest has over 70 miles of bridle trails, most of which are directly accessible from the camp. Campsites are available on a first- come, first-served basis.
Campingispermittedonlyinareasprovidedanddesignated for such use. Limited road-side camping is permitted during deer and turkey hunting season when camps are registered at the Forest Office.
Experience the serenity of nature and create lasting memories with loved ones by camping at Ben's Happy Trails. Our campground and lodging options offer a stress-free experience and a chance to relax. Don't miss out on this opportunity to unplug and reconnect with nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Friendship, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Friendship, OH is Carter Caves State Resort Park with a 4.2-star rating from 45 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Friendship, OH?
TheDyrt.com has all 13 equestrian camping locations near Friendship, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.