Youngs Creek Horse Camp provides primitive camping for equestrians in Hoosier National Forest. The area offers five to six campsites with fire rings and picnic tables at no cost. Horse trailers can park directly at sites, which include hitching posts and access to a fresh water pump. The campground connects to forest trails suitable for various skill levels. Located approximately five miles from Paoli, visitors can easily obtain supplies when needed. The camp remains relatively uncrowded except during organized trail rides.
What to do
Explore extensive trail systems: Hoosier National Forest offers multiple connected trail networks for riders and hikers. At O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground, "There is a lot of family fun to be had there. We had a wonderful time and plan on returning many times to hike all the trails," notes Stacey S. The park features "several hiking trails with various difficulties" according to Donald S.
Visit pioneer attractions: Historical sites enhance the camping experience in southern Indiana. Spring Mill State Park includes a reconstructed village that draws visitors throughout the camping season. "You can set up here and have plenty to do without ever leaving the park," explains Shelly S. The pioneer village offers educational demonstrations and glimpses into 19th-century life.
Water activities on nearby lakes: Several recreation areas include lakes for fishing, swimming, and non-motorized boating. Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground provides access to both Indian and Celina Lakes. "There are two lakes, Indian and Celina, in the immediate area, electric motors only, which just adds to my liking it," reports one camper. These smaller lakes offer peaceful settings for fishing and paddling.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: The region offers camping options with varying degrees of privacy. At North Face Loop, campers appreciate that "moderately wooded, well spaced, basic sites provide privacy and shade." One visitor noted, "We got that in #7 camp in north loop. We felt like we own the place!" Campers consistently mention the spaciousness between sites.
Well-maintained facilities: Despite being primitive, most campgrounds maintain clean facilities. At Blackwell Campground, Joe B. found "vault toilets. Plenty of space to spread out." Another camper noted it was "clean with sparse campers. People who were there were nice and we felt safe."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Youngs Creek Horse Camp, Elizabeth W. observed that "the chorus frog do roar through the night. 100% worth it... Lots of wildlife, and kind people." The forests surrounding English provide habitat for diverse bird species, deer, and smaller mammals.
What you should know
Insect preparation essential: Ticks and other insects are common throughout the camping season. Elizabeth W. advises visitors to "make sure to bring bug spray, and travel carefully up the roads" when visiting Youngs Creek. The forested environment creates ideal conditions for ticks, especially during warmer months.
Limited phone service: Cell coverage varies throughout the region with many campgrounds reporting spotty service. At Hoosier National Forest Jackpine Loop Campground, campers note the remote nature limits connectivity. Curtis and Kerry T. reported "cell service by various providers is 1-2 bars" at nearby locations.
Weather impacts accessibility: Seasonal conditions affect campground access and trail quality. Heavy rains can make roads challenging and create muddy conditions on trails. David M. suggests visitors "travel carefully up the roads" when heading to camping areas. During dry periods, campgrounds remain easily accessible with standard vehicles.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Some locations offer dedicated play areas for children. Shelly S. recommends O'Bannon Woods where "the kids love the pool and trails. The campground sites are spacious and lots of shade in the summer." The park includes "a beach at the park. Swimming, horse trails and lodging, electric campgrounds," according to Justin B.
Visit nature centers for educational opportunities: Several parks feature nature centers with ranger programs. Donald S. notes O'Bannon Woods has a "great nature center w ranger tours." These facilities often provide kid-friendly activities and wildlife exhibits that engage younger campers.
Select campsites near facilities: When camping with children, proximity to restrooms matters. At Deam Lake State Recreation Area Campground, one camper reported staying "in the Cardinal Cabin. Tons of privacy and the best bathrooms I have ever seen. Not a single bug and they even had antibacterial hand soap at every sink." Location within campgrounds can significantly impact convenience for families.
Tips for RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Many campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. At Spring Mill State Park, Thomas U. found that "the site we where at was heavily sloped, the only flat part was where they put the fire pit at." He advises that "the best site we found was #9."
Look for electric hookups: While some horse camps lack hookups, other nearby campgrounds offer electrical connections. Corey T. notes that at O'Bannon Woods, "There are a lot of campsites for RV's and some for equine camping also." Derek J. adds that "the sites have an asphalt pad that are mostly level. 50,30,20 amp service in one box."
Water access considerations: RVers should plan for water limitations at primitive sites. Susan A. mentions that Youngs Creek has "vault toilets and a fresh water pump not far from them," but no hookups. Many equestrian camping areas near English, Indiana provide water access points rather than direct connections to individual sites.
