Hickory Ridge Campground — Hoosier National Forest

Coyote calls echo through the night at this US Forest Service campground, where gravel roads wind through Hoosier National Forest to reach scattered campsites. The access road requires about 20 minutes of driving on winding gravel, keeping visitor numbers low. Originally designed as a horse camp, the area accommodates both equestrian groups with trailers and regular vehicle campers, with restrooms available on-site. Groups of multiple vehicles can spread out in the back sections, where space remains ample even when horse trailers occupy the front areas. The remote location provides quiet camping for those willing to navigate the rough forest roads.

Fee Info

All campsites are free of charge.

Suggest an Edit

RV Road Trip Guides

Map & DirectionsHickory Ridge Campground is located in Indiana near Norman

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

38.976483 N
86.293462 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Pets
  • Fires

Drive Time


2026 Explorer Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Reviews2 Camper Reviews - Hickory Ridge Campground

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

100%
0%
0%
0%
0%

5.0

out of 5

2 Reviews

Reviewed Sep. 21, 2024

Secluded horse camp

It’s a horse camp but we were able to camp here. There were also two vehicle campers across the way. It was peaceful. It was a ways down a winding gravel road, maybe 20 minutes on that road.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Play button icon
  • Review photo of Hickory Ridge Campground — Hoosier National Forest by Amber R., September 21, 2024
Reviewed Oct. 25, 2021

Good size campground in the Hoosier National Forest

We love driving through scenic trails so we go to the Hoosier National Forest pretty frequently. The great thing about the campsites around the area are that they’re free. We stayed at the Horse camp. It’s a pretty good sized location. There were about 3 horse trailers there when we stayed. We were a group of 6 vehicles and we fit just fine in the back of the campground and there was so much space of more people if needed. They also have restrooms there too. It was nice and quiet except for the Coyotes, but hey, that’s okay.

Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Hickory Ridge Campground — Hoosier National Forest by Jennifer K., October 25, 2021
  • Review photo of Hickory Ridge Campground — Hoosier National Forest by Jennifer K., October 25, 2021
  • Review photo of Hickory Ridge Campground — Hoosier National Forest by Jennifer K., October 25, 2021
  • (9) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What horse facilities are available at Hickory Ridge Horse Camp?

Hickory Ridge Horse Camp features spacious areas designed to accommodate horses and horse trailers. The camp has adequate room for multiple horse trailers, typically hosting several at any given time. While specific hitching posts or corrals aren't detailed, the camp is purposely designed for equestrians and their mounts. The layout provides sufficient space for horses to rest while their owners camp nearby, making it a functional base for horseback riding adventures in Hoosier National Forest.

What amenities are available at Hickory Ridge Campground?

Hickory Ridge Campground in Hoosier National Forest is a primitive campground with minimal amenities. The campground offers basic camping spaces suitable for both tent and vehicle camping. While it doesn't have modern conveniences like electricity or running water, the area provides a peaceful forest setting ideal for those seeking a more rustic outdoor experience. The campground is accessible via a winding gravel road that takes approximately 20 minutes to traverse from the main road.

How do I make reservations at Hickory Ridge Campground?

Hickory Ridge Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system in place. The campground is free to use, which is a notable advantage for visitors. For the most current information about availability or potential seasonal closures, contact the Hoosier National Forest office before your trip. During busy seasons, especially weekends with favorable weather, arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.

What trails can I access from Hickory Ridge Horse Camp?

Hickory Ridge Horse Camp provides direct access to scenic trails throughout Hoosier National Forest. The camp serves as an excellent starting point for horseback riding adventures on the forest's trail system. Trails accessible from the camp wind through the picturesque woodland terrain, offering opportunities for both short rides and longer excursions. The surrounding area features multiple riding trails that showcase the natural beauty of the Hoosier National Forest. For detailed trail maps and current trail conditions, check with the forest service office before your visit.