Blackwell Campground in the Hoosier National Forest offers additional seasonal options beyond its core horse camping facilities. The campground stays open year-round with most visitors arriving between April and October. Located on gently sloping terrain at approximately 760 feet elevation, the area experiences typical southern Indiana weather patterns with humid summers and mild winters. During peak summer weekends, early arrival is recommended as the first-come, first-served sites fill quickly.
What to do
Hiking trail access: Two trailheads positioned at different ends of the campground connect to 15+ miles of trails with varying difficulty levels. "I solo camped here overnight and had a pleasant time. Before arriving I had questions about where I'd be able to camp. I called the local ranger line and they were super helpful," reports Krystyn S. about Blackwell Campground.
Astronomy opportunities: With minimal light pollution, the open field design makes Blackwell ideal for stargazing. "Can't believe this place was free. The hiking was fantastic and the few people camping there were very well dispersed and all respectful," notes Kelly G.
Lake activities nearby: Monroe Lake offers additional recreation within a short drive. "We really liked the set up of this campsite. The fire rings were spread apart amidst a green hill. There was some shade available around the edges. Screech owls and active birds made it an exciting evening," says Josie W.
What campers like
Free camping option: The no-cost structure appeals to budget-conscious travelers. "I found this place a few years ago and it has become my local go to. It is free camping and first come first serve. There are vault toilets. Plenty of space to spread out," writes Joe B. about Berry Ridge Road.
Solar power potential: The open layout works well for campers with solar equipment. "Great boondocking spot, plenty of flat land making leveling easy. Wide open so solar charging was easy. We were there for 7 days and while they have room for probably 50 or 60 rigs there was only 3 or 4 of us there most of the time," shares The Wandering Shores about Blackwell.
Privacy options: For those seeking more seclusion than the main field offers. "If you go to the end and take a right there will be spots at the beginning of the trail heads secluded with fire rings. They are drive in. Much more private as well as no smell of horse poop," advises Ry M.
What you should know
Weather preparation: The open field design provides limited shade in summer months. "If you're a solar person, this is your spot! It's a giant open field with vault toilets. If you're looking for shade or here in the summer months, you may try elsewhere as there is not much shade to be had," cautions Juniper L.
Water availability: No water hookups exist at Blackwell. "Quiet with sparse campers. People who were there were nice and we felt safe. Free. Easy to find but slow going with rig on winding narrow roads. No water hook ups had to drive to Hardin 3 miles over and pay $5 for their shower and water for our horses," explains Cj H. at Youngs Creek Horse Camp.
Noise considerations: Horse trailers sometimes run generators. "No set camp spots but great to set up and have no light pollution! Close to town but also right off some amazing trails! Sometimes the horse trailers get loud with generators but it is a horse camp ground!" mentions Emily H.
Tips for camping with families
Alternative campgrounds: For families seeking more amenities than horse camps provide. "We have tent camped in Yellowwood several times and have always enjoyed our stay. We have also had lots of fun renting a rowboat, and being out on the water," recommends Margo B. about Yellowwood State Forest.
Wildlife viewing: Children can spot local birds and animals from camp. "Screech owls and active birds made it an exciting evening," reports Josie W.
Cave explorations: Several cave systems exist within driving distance. "The one negative was I did have to pack out previous campers trash along with my own. Being close to the college there was evidence that less than mature campers may frequent the area," reports Darren L. about Charles C. Deam Wilderness.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Most areas provide relatively level parking for RVs. "Open areas with pit toilets and water available. Shade and sunny locations. Pick a spot and set up with hammock-large rvs spots. No fee, no reservations, no problems," advises Betsy W.
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging for larger rigs. "Easy to find but slow going with rig on winding narrow roads," notes Cj H.
Alternative equestrian camping: When Blackwell fills up. "The road leading to the Horseman's camp crosses a creek several times, and in rainy weather there may be water over the road," warns Audrey M. about Horsemen's Campground at Brown County State Park, another horse campground option near Avoca, Indiana.
