Equestrian camping options near Boonville, Indiana provide varied terrain for riders in the southwestern portion of the state. The region features rolling hills, hardwood forests, and proximity to the Wabash River with seasonal changes affecting trail conditions. While dedicated horse facilities are limited, several state and national forest campgrounds accommodate riders with varying levels of amenities and trail access depending on the season.
What to do
Lakeside recreation: At Hoosier National Forest Jackpine Loop Campground, visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking and canoeing. "Wildlife is everywhere, as it is not unusual to have a Momma deer and her little one walk through the woods by your campsite or down by the boat launch, often followed by a turkey or two," writes Cathleen T.
Halloween festivities: Harmonie State Park offers special seasonal events for families during fall months. "We stayed the weekend before Halloween. They had a trunk or treat in the pool parking lot and although there weren't a ton of vehicles, it was definitely enough for the kids to have fun trick or treating. There was also a hayride in the evening for a small fee and that included making smore's at the bonfire," notes Nichole M.
Hiking opportunities: Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground provides access to multiple trail systems. "We hiked extensively and though this is definitely not mountainous terrain it will give you a workout. A lot of cool rock formations and wildlife to be seen, then there's the ticks. Bring your bug stuff!" advises Shelly S.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Harmonie State Park offers well-separated camping areas. "Campsites are spacious. Many places for large groups to camp when they put multiple sites together," shares Dave C. Sites provide ample room for standard equipment with electric hookups available at most locations.
Privacy between sites: Lake Mauzy East provides secluded camping options. "Super quiet, tons of birds, and we saw snake mounds but not yet seen one...birds and butterflies and owls," reports Adrianne. The campground's natural setting creates natural barriers between campers.
Clean facilities: Jackpine Loop features well-maintained restrooms and shower facilities. "Bathrooms are super clean and automated. Showers are individual showers with their own dressing area," notes Cathleen T. The campground prioritizes cleanliness even during peak season.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Harmonie State Park has connectivity restrictions. "It is located back in the hills, far off the highway. Very little cell phone signal. Very relaxing and enjoyable," mentions Olivia S. Visitors should download maps or information before arrival.
Wildlife encounters: Expect native animals throughout camping areas. "Our only problem was 1 or more raccoons kept coming into our site. We shooed them away but they kept coming back. I'm sure they were just looking for food," shares Barbie G.
Seasonal considerations: North Face Loop campground experiences significant tick activity during warmer months. "The ticks here seem like the Infantry, swarming the objective from all sides," warns Shelly S. Proper insect repellent is essential during spring and summer visits.
Tips for camping with families
Beach facilities: Harmonie State Park Campground offers swimming options for children. "Olympic size pool open during summer-has water slide, diving boards, separate baby pool with shade awning, and concessions," reports Olivia S.
Playgrounds: Multiple recreational areas for children exist throughout the region. "Peaceful, family friendly-playgrounds, pool, hiking trails, picnic areas, large camp sites," shares Kathi K. about Harmonie State Park.
Biking opportunities: Paved roads provide safe cycling areas for children. "There are paved roads the kids can bike on as well as mountain bike trails," mentions Dave C. Families should note trail difficulty levels vary substantially.
Tips from RVers
Site identification challenges: Some campgrounds have confusing site markers. "Had a problem finding our site number in the dark, as they are facing the wrong way from driving direction," notes Linette G. RVers should arrive during daylight hours when possible.
Reservation requirements: Campgrounds increasingly require advance booking. "We researched and though a fair bit of the forest was first come first serve. After stopping at many along the way we wound up here at Jackpine snagging up the last site electric site available," shares Curtis and Kerry T.
Loop selection: RV campers should research specific camping areas. "If you're the kind who wanna socialize or in a large group who needs a campground within eyeshot, south loop is more for your taste. There's lots of RVs parked, people chatting, laid back drinking beer just having a good time!" recommends Rica Z. when discussing North Face Loop.
