Equestrian camping opportunities extend beyond Brown County State Park's dedicated facilities, with several alternatives available near North Vernon, Indiana. The region's rolling hills and forested terrain create diverse riding conditions across multiple parks within a 40-mile radius. Seasonal considerations affect trail conditions significantly, with spring often bringing muddy sections while fall provides optimal footing along most routes.
What to Do
Trail riding at Yellowwood State Forest: Located approximately 35 miles northwest of North Vernon, this 23,326-acre forest offers extensive riding opportunities. "We have camped here several times and have always enjoyed our stay. We have also had lots of fun renting a rowboat, and being out on the water," notes a visitor to Yellowwood State Forest Campground.
Cave exploration near Mitchell: Spring Mill State Park, about 40 miles southwest of North Vernon, combines riding opportunities with unique geological features. "This state park has a very large camp ground, campers or primitive. It's a large park with tons of trails and even several caves. Some caves are guided by boat," explains a reviewer at Spring Mill State Park Campground.
Water activities after riding: Many parks offer lake access for cooling off after trail rides. At Deam Lake State Recreation Area, "The lake doesn't allow non-electric motors so waters were calm. Caught some bluegills," reports one camper, while another mentions that "Perfect lake to kayak for a beginner bc no wake zone."
What Campers Like
Quiet, secluded campsites: Berry Ridge Road dispersed camping areas provide primitive options about 30 miles northwest of North Vernon. "Multiple campsites in the area, I've stayed at two both of which were away from others, clean, fairly flat and had plenty of dead wood around to burn," notes a camper at Berry Ridge Rd Dispersed Camping.
Well-maintained facilities: At Versailles State Park, 15 miles northeast of North Vernon, "The RV campground is fairly large with nice size sites. Some can be short and a bit uneven, so be prepared. The facilities were nice but needed a good cleaning," according to one visitor to Versailles State Park Campground.
Historical features: Several parks combine riding with historical exploration. "The campground is an easy detour off I-65, Exit #76, for the RVer looking for an overnight or two. Plenty of shopping and restaurants in the area; grocery, outlet mall, name brand dining," explains a visitor to Johnson County Park, noting its 622-acre area includes multiple amenities and connections to history.
What You Should Know
Site limitations: At many equestrian campgrounds, site levelness varies significantly. "Site 22 was so sloped our red levelers barely made it work. Sore needed gravel, it was mostly dirt that got tracked into our travel trailer immediately after sweeping," warns a camper at Clifty Falls State Park Campground.
Seasonal closures: Many parks restrict trail access during wet conditions. "Be aware that there is only one dump station for the three campgrounds so there can be quite the line when trying to get out of there on Sunday afternoon," notes a Versailles State Park camper, highlighting infrastructure limitations.
Wildlife considerations: Secure food and trash at all times. "Did see a rattlesnake dead on the road," reports a Berry Ridge camper, while another mentions, "Every night at around 5pm I would hear rustling in the leaves, I assumed it was a pack of cayotes and they would leave once I started banging on stuff."
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for parks with diverse activities: Versailles State Park offers options beyond riding. "The pool is nice, and the kids love the slides and diving board. They also have a fenced in area for small children with a baby pool and sprinkler," recommends a visitor with children.
Check trail difficulty ratings: Not all trails are suitable for younger riders. At Charles C. Deam Wilderness, "The trails are well paved and marked, not too strenuous. So many beautiful trees and plants to see, plus lots of creeks to walk through," notes a hiker, indicating trails that might work for beginner riders.
Consider proximity to facilities: For families with young children, bathhouse access matters. "We had a nice level, shaded campground," reports a Versailles visitor, while another mentions "Clean bathrooms with push button showers."
Tips from RVers
Check site length and levelness: Many horse camping areas have challenging sites for larger rigs. At Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest, "Great boondocking spot, plenty of flat land making leveling easy. Wide open so solar charging was easy," notes an RVer who stayed a full week.
Water and dump station availability: Access varies significantly between parks. "No set camp spots but great to set up and have no light pollution! Close to town but also right off some amazing trails!" reports a Blackwell Campground visitor.
Consider electrical needs: Many equestrian sites offer limited amperage options. "Loop C site 202 - This is a nice site, easy to back in, nestled up to some trees. Not good for tents. Pad is long," advises a Versailles State Park camper regarding specific site information.
