Equestrian trails wind through pine forests surrounding Keystone Heights, Florida, a region known for its sandy soil and oak hammocks. The area borders several freshwater lakes with elevations ranging from 100-130 feet above sea level. Weather ranges from humid summers reaching 90°F to mild winters with occasional frost, making fall through spring ideal for horse camping expeditions.
What to do
Trail riding at Etoniah Creek State Forest: Access nearly 9,000 acres of riding trails with sandy-dirt paths perfect for horses. "Etoniah Creek State Forest is a little known gem... with tons of hiking trails and a nice southwest access point for some great fishing at Georges Lake," notes Stuart K. The Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp features primitive camping options for equestrians.
Swimming at O'Leno State Park: Cool off during hot months at designated swimming areas. "The campsite was nice and private. The bathrooms were clean. The park had nice hiking trails, but I enjoyed the kayaking most of all. There is a swimming section," reports Sean B. at Dogwood Campground.
Wildlife viewing at Paynes Prairie: Observe diverse wildlife including wild horses on designated trails. "This park has 8 trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. We were able to see wild horses, bisons, snakes and gators. Great for fishing and kayaking," writes Brenda S. The prairie provides excellent opportunities for photography and nature observation.
What campers like
Spacious equestrian facilities: Campers appreciate dedicated areas for horses with proper amenities. "Very nice small campground. Best asset is the access to hiking and biking. Miles of trails," notes Esther M. about Santos Trailhead & Campground, which connects to extensive trail systems.
Natural water features: Lakes and rivers near horse campgrounds provide additional recreation. "Nice riverside campsite. Hiked in about 3.3 miles... the campsite itself was great. It's right next to the river, and includes plenty of space, a fire pit with cooking grates, and a picnic bench," writes Nate D. about Bayard Conservation Area.
Quiet, natural settings: Horse-friendly sites typically offer more seclusion. "Sites are spread out and HUGE!! Several trails and plenty of room for kids to play on site!!!" reports David S. about camping at Cary State Forest. Many equestrian campgrounds maintain sufficient distance between sites to accommodate horses and trailers.
What you should know
Trail conditions vary seasonally: Prepare for different ground conditions throughout the year. "Hot with skeeters the majority of the year, cold overnight in the winter. All kinds of little critters in the woods and access to hikes and many gators," warns Dan X. about Paynes Prairie Preserve.
Equestrian-specific restrictions: Some trails prohibit pets or have limitations. "All of the things they advertise (and I was looking forward to) - bison, horses, wildlife - are all on trails where pets are not allowed," notes Denise about Paynes Prairie.
Limited services: Most horse campgrounds near Keystone Heights have basic facilities. "Please note there isn't much close by, so stop at the grocery and get fuel before you turn off 17," advises AnnMarie E. about Welaka State Forest, which offers equestrian camping.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with child-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with open play areas near horse corrals. "Lovely Park with lots of wildlife!! La Chua trail was beautiful and we saw lots of gators. We did the Ranger led hike which was really nice, my 5 year old struggled to keep up with the Ranger and there are decent elevation changes," shares Lindsey H.
Consider educational opportunities: Several parks offer ranger programs about local wildlife. "Definitely one of the more popular destinations in the area because of the buffalo and wild horses... grounds are well-kept and events (like baby alligator educational sessions) are above-par," notes Kristin T.
Plan for insects: Mosquitoes and flies can be problematic, especially with horses. "Nice campground. Clean and well maintained. Very shady site, but tons of mosquitoes. We went in late October," reports Lauren W. at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup locations: Some sites have unusual utility placements for horse camping areas. "We got the only site that had electric and water on passenger side so we had to run electric under our rig. If we would have been in a class B or C you could go nose first," notes David S.
Verify electrical capacity: Confirm amps before booking at smaller equestrian campgrounds. "When we arrived and hooked up the 30amp breaker kept flipping. We had just left crooked river and hadn't had any issues," reports Hayley S. about Cary State Forest Campground.
Reserve well in advance: Horse-friendly sites are limited and popular. "It's challenging to get a reservation for the campgrounds but worth it if you can. Go hiking, biking, kayaking, or fly a kite. Backcountry camping is first come first serve— get there early to get a permit," advises Issa F. about primitive camping options.