Equestrian camping options around Celestine, Indiana include multiple developed horse camps within the Hoosier National Forest. This southern Indiana region features rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 400 to 700 feet. The local limestone geology creates natural springs and streams throughout the forested landscape, with summer temperatures typically ranging 75-90°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Trail riding access: Blackwell Campground in Hoosier National Forest connects to multiple trail systems. "Off the beaten path. Site accommodates both horse, drive in and walk-in camping. There's a privy and water on site... There is a trail that loops back to the site for easy hiking access," notes David M. about Youngs Creek Horse Camp.
Cave exploration: Several limestone cave systems exist within a 30-minute drive. At Spring Mill State Park Campground, "There is a cave tour also on offer in which you ride thru the cave system in a boat. Yes there are even lifevests for customer to wear!" shares Rachel W.
Boating and fishing: Monroe Lake provides options for non-motorized watercraft. "Located on Monroe lake, they have canoeing, row boats, sailboats, motor boats, and skiing," explains Margo B. about nearby water recreation areas.
Swimming opportunities: State parks in the region maintain designated swimming areas with limited facilities. At Deam Lake State Recreation Area Campground, "The lake looked very nice and is electric motor only. It will be nice to head back with the kayaks. You may need a permit for all boats, so check before you go," advises Tom J.
What campers like
Natural soundscape: Horse campgrounds near Celestine remain quiet outside organized trail events. "The chorus frog do roar through the night. 100% worth it, make sure to bring bug spray, and travel carefully up the roads. Lots of wildlife, and kind people," says Elizabeth W. about her stay at Youngs Creek.
Privacy between sites: At Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground, "All of the sites are spaced far enough away that you'll have your privacy. The sites are clean and spacious as well as very flat for tents," reports Chelsi S.
Convenience of town access: While enjoying forest seclusion, campers appreciate proximity to supplies. "It is only five miles from Paoli, and there is a Walmart there if you need supplies," notes Susan A. about Youngs Creek Horse Camp location.
Equestrian-friendly facilities: Purpose-built corrals and hitching posts accommodate horses comfortably. "We camp here every time we come to Indiana. We have camped there in a truck camper, and now we tent camp with our Jeep. The sites are large, and there are fire rings available," shares Susan A.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Many horse campgrounds operate seasonally with limited winter access. "Jackpine Loop is the largest of the campground loops at Tipsaw Lake Recreation area Hoosier National Forest," notes Shelly S. about Hoosier National Forest Jackpine Loop Campground, which operates April through October.
Drinking water limitations: Some sites offer pumped water with restrictions. "There are vault toilets and a fresh water pump not far from them. The only time this camp is full is when a trail ride is going on, then it fills up fast," mentions Susan A.
Insect precautions: Ticks remain prevalent throughout warm months in the region. "I would also bring bug spray and check for ticks!" advises Jessica T. about preparing for outdoor activities in this area.
Weather considerations: Terrain can become challenging after rain. "We came after a lot of rain. So everything is permanently wet and mosquitos/ticks abounded," warns Sarah R.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming: Safe water recreation options exist with shallow areas. "The beach has a play are for children right on the beach which makes it ideal for parents," explains Cathleen T. about Tipsaw Lake facilities.
Educational opportunities: Historic and natural learning opportunities abound near equestrian sites. "There is a kiosk nearby with information about them and the area and their family cemetery is about 100 yards up the road," describes Shelly S. about interpretive opportunities.
Accessible options: Some facilities accommodate mobility needs. "The small fishing pier we visited is handicap accessible adjacent to the handicap parking spot. The pit toilet is nearby and also accessible," notes Shelly S.
Space considerations: When camping with children, select sites with adequate space. "The campground is fairly large with nice size sites. Some can be short and a bit uneven, so be prepared," advises Tom J. about O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Determine essential services before arrival. "Great boondocking spot, plenty of flat land making leveling easy. Wide open so solar charging was easy... pits toliets, quiet, clean, dumpster available," shares The Wandering Shores about Charles C. Deam Wilderness.
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "The sites we where at was heavily sloped, the only flat part was where they put the fire pit at. When we looked at the other site most of the shaded sites that had some privacy where also heavily sloped," warns Thomas U.
Electric access limitations: Some horse campgrounds lack electric hookups entirely. "If you're a solar person, this is your spot! It's a giant open field with vault toilets," notes Juniper L. about dry camping options.
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. "Free camping and first come first serve... Plenty of space to spread out," shares Joe B. about dispersed camping alternatives.
