Youngs Creek Horse Camp offers primitive equestrian camping in the Hoosier National Forest. The six primitive sites contain fire rings and access to nearby hitching posts throughout the grounds. The camp features vault toilets and potable water. Located approximately 5 miles from Paoli and 30 minutes from French Lick, this free camping destination connects directly to horse trails that loop back to the camping area.
What to do
Trail riding: The area surrounding Youngs Creek Horse Camp provides quality trail experiences for riders with trail traffic varying by day of the week. "A quiet, peaceful spot in the forest. A few horses on the trail on weekends," notes Mark D., highlighting the light trail usage that makes for serene riding conditions.
Water activities: At Spring Mill State Park, visitors can explore multiple water features. "They had a Smokey the Bear program for the kids and some really fun activities at the nature center while we were there. We were able to rent a paddle boat for $8/hr and saw tons of turtles!" reports Jessie W., describing the family-friendly water activities available.
Cave exploration: The region features notable cave systems worth exploring. "This state park has a very large camp ground, campers or primative. It's a large park with tons of trails and even several caves. Some caves are guided by boat. Very neat to see," explains Donald T., detailing the unique underground attractions at Spring Mill State Park.
What campers like
Scenic trails: O'Bannon Woods State Park offers extensive hiking opportunities through forested terrain. "Several trails in walking, horse or bike riding distance. Some direct access from the campground. You can set up here and have plenty to do without ever leaving the park," shares Shelly S., emphasizing the accessibility of trails from camp.
Wilderness immersion: For those seeking a more rugged experience, Charles C. Deam Wilderness provides true backcountry camping. "This place is the gift that keeps in giving being so close to the city. Beautiful sites on the lake, and dozens of other spots scattered throughout the forest as well," states Steven D., highlighting the numerous dispersed camping options.
Natural soundscape: Horse campgrounds near French Lick, Indiana feature natural nighttime ambiance. "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," mentions Elizabeth W. about her experience at Youngs Creek Horse Camp.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: The region experiences variable weather patterns throughout the year. "We unfortunately had poor weather during our stay and had to leave early because of the threat of thunderstorms and tornadoes/damaging winds. Our vintage pop-up is not the best shelter in severe weather!" cautions Jessie W. about their Spring Mill stay.
Terrain challenges: Blackwell Campground provides spacious camping but features specific terrain considerations. "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," notes Josie W., describing the layout that offers both exposure and limited shade options.
Supply planning: Equestrian campers should prepare appropriately for their stay. "Quiet with sparse campers. People who were there were nice and we felt safe. Free. Easy to find but slow going w 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," advises Cj H. about Blackwell Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Pioneer activities: Educational historical experiences enhance family camping trips. "This was an amazing campground! There were amazing trails and a cave, as well as Pioneer Village which was so fascinating and well run," shares Lauren E. about her experience at Spring Mill, highlighting the educational opportunities.
Swimming options: Deam Lake State Recreation Area provides water recreation suitable for children. "Perfect lake to kayak for a beginner bc no wake zone also the cabins are cool and cozy just bring a mattress the restrooms are definitely the cleanest and well taken care of anywhere I've ever been," explains Brandy A., noting the calm waters ideal for families.
Wildlife viewing: Equestrian campgrounds near French Lick allow opportunities to observe local fauna. "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," describes Cathleen T. about her experiences at Tipsaw Lake.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When visiting equestrian campgrounds in the Hoosier National Forest, choose your site strategically. "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," recommends The Wandering Shores about their Blackwell Campground stay.
Leveling considerations: Many sites in the region require preparation for uneven terrain. "Not all pads are level or very wide. Some of the tent sites are a challenge to get to and use," warns Shelly S. about O'Bannon Woods, highlighting the importance of bringing leveling equipment for RVs.
Utility limitations: RV campers should plan for variable hookup availability. "The campground was really nice and relatively quiet. The sites have an asphalt pad that are mostly level. 50,30,20 amp service in one box. There was no water at the site though. Throughout the campground are potable water spigots that you can hook up to and add water to your tank," explains Derek J. about his O'Bannon Woods experience.
