Moraine View State Recreational Area offers horseback riders a dedicated equestrian campground with specialized amenities. Located within a 1,687-acre park with varied terrain, the equestrian area includes properly sized sites to accommodate trailers and horses. Multiple trail systems run directly from the campground, providing riders diverse routes through woodlands and areas overlooking Lake Shelbyville. Weather conditions affect trail quality, with spring typically providing optimal riding conditions.
What to do
Fishing and kayaking: Lake Shelbyville at Wolf Creek State Park Campground offers multiple water recreation options. "Nice lake for fishing and kayaking. Excellent restaurant on site also," notes Kelly M. The park connects to the large reservoir with boat launches and shoreline access.
Trail riding: The designated horse trails at Moraine View State Recreational Area provide varied terrain for all experience levels. The system includes nearly 10 miles of routes designed specifically for equestrian use, with connector trails allowing riders to customize their experience based on skill level.
Camping near water: Waterfront sites at Comlara County Park provide direct lake access. "I was surprised to see three picnic tables. It also had a fire ring with grill and a separate grill. The best part was the view of the lake," says Scott N. about his tent camping experience.
What campers like
Varied camping options: Deer Creek Campground offers sites for different preferences. "Large, quiet campsites that are not too crowded. Near the back you can camp right alongside the river," reports Kate M. The campground maintains distance between sites for increased privacy.
Wildlife viewing: Camping areas throughout the region provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Whitley Creek, one camper noted: "Raccoons are really brave and not afraid of humans. They know how to rip open a tent for food. Nothing is safe here. But a beautiful lake and campground," warns Jana C.
Fall scenery: Autumn brings spectacular colors to the equestrian camping areas near White Heath. The deciduous forests surrounding the horse trails transform with seasonal changes. "We got there in the dark and woke up to Fall colors, Canadian geese, trails, playgrounds," shares Jennifer M. about her experience at Moraine View.
What you should know
Campsite selection matters: Different camping areas offer vastly different experiences. "We went here with a group of tent campers sight unseen, so that's always rolling the dice. Would not recommend the main part where you could reserve online. Sites are right on top of each other in every direction," cautions Ryan M. about certain sections of Moraine View.
Equestrian-only sections: Horse camping areas typically require visitors to have horses. "On July 4th we were given the option of moving our entire campsite or being kicked out of the park. We booked our campsite in April... Come to find out we booked in 'horse camp' which apparently requires you to have horses. It never stated this on the website," warns Brandt B. about Wolf Creek State Park.
Limited facilities: Some campgrounds have minimal amenities. At Deer Creek, "There are just port-a-potties for restrooms but they are very clean. There are not a lot of stores in the area (closest is about ~15 minutes) so pack all of your stuff," advises Kate M.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Several equestrian camping options near White Heath include swimming areas. "The swim beach is not right in campground but nearby. $3 entry for beach. The RV campground is on the water, book far enough in advance for a waterfront site," recommends Sarah M. about Moraine View.
Playground availability: Moraine View State Recreational Area includes recreation areas for children. "There's a playground by bathrooms which have showers. Showers were a good temp. Campground was not particularly loud when we were there (even on a holiday weekend)," notes Sarah M.
Educational opportunities: Horse camping creates learning experiences for children. The guided trail rides and designated equestrian areas allow young visitors to observe proper horse management while experiencing the region's natural features.
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: Water access points vary between campgrounds. "Nice park, spacious sites, bring plenty of water hose. The water faucets for fill up can be a bit far away," advises Nathaniel K. about Wolf Creek State Park.
Site selection for shade: "Sites all seemed flat (meant for RVs but most had grass good for tent setup) and most were shady," notes Sarah M. about Moraine View's RV camping area. The mature trees throughout the campground provide natural cooling during summer months.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer full service hookups. "Only electric hook ups," mentions Debbie B. about Moraine View. Check individual campgrounds for sanitary dump stations before arrival.
