Top Horse Camping near Hoosier National Forest

We're here to help you find where to go horse camping in Hoosier National Forest. Camping with horses is a beautiful way to experience nature. Search nearby equestrian campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Hoosier National Forest, IN (13)

    Camper-submitted photo from Spring Mill State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spring Mill State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spring Mill State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spring Mill State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spring Mill State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spring Mill State Park Campground

    1.

    Spring Mill State Park Campground

    22 Reviews
    90 Photos
    127 Saves
    Mitchell, Indiana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 - $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    2.

    Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    20 Reviews
    25 Photos
    Heltonville, Indiana

    Overview

    The camp is located along Tower Ridge Road in the center of the Charles Deam Wilderness area, approximately one mile from Highway 446. The camp also is a trailhead for the Charles C. Deam Wilderness trail system.____

    Recreation

    Blackwell is a campground for all types of users. It provides access to the Charles C. Deam Wilderness Trail system with approximately 35 miles of trails. The nearby Hickory Ridge Trail system is also available.

    Facilities

    Blackwell is a campground for all types of users. It provides access to the Charles C. Deam Wilderness Trail system with approximately 35 miles of trails. The nearby Hickory Ridge Trail system is also available.

    Natural Features

    The camp is a large grassy area with gravel parking areas on the east and west end. The trailheads are located on the east and west ends of the camp by the parking areas.__

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    Camper-submitted photo from Youngs Creek Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Youngs Creek Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Youngs Creek Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Youngs Creek Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Youngs Creek Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Youngs Creek Horse Camp

    3.

    Youngs Creek Horse Camp

    7 Reviews
    7 Photos
    27 Saves
    Paoli, Indiana

    Overview

    A primitive campground with vault toilets, hitching racks, and a picnic shelter is available. Around 12 and half miles of trails are available for hiking, mountain biking and horse riding.

    Recreation

    The Youngs Creek Campground provides access to the 12.7-mile Youngs Creek multiple use trail for horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking.____

    Facilities

    The Youngs Creek Campground provides access to the 12.7-mile Youngs Creek multiple use trail for horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking.____

    Natural Features

    Shady trails, scenic hardwood forests and a variety of terrain

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Charles C. Deam Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Charles C. Deam Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Charles C. Deam Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Charles C. Deam Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Charles C. Deam Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Charles C. Deam Wilderness

    5.

    Charles C. Deam Wilderness

    8 Reviews
    27 Photos
    124 Saves
    Heltonville, Indiana

    The Charles C. Deam Wilderness offers 36 miles of trails for hiking, backpacking, and horse riding through scenic hardwood forest and varied terrain with views of nearby Monroe Lake. The area was designated a wilderness in 1982 and encompasses nearly 12,953 acres of the Hoosier National Forest. Wilderness designation places this area in a special legal status (subject to the 1964 Wilderness Act). It is managed to preserve a natural condition and provide opportunities for solitude. Since its designation as a wilderness, visitor use in the area increased to a point that significant damage was occurring. Special restrictions are in place to protect the wilderness character. Visitors to this special place are asked to follow these restrictions to lessen your impact and share responsibility in preserving this unique natural resource.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground

    6.

    O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    42 Photos
    129 Saves
    Leavenworth, Indiana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Ransburg Scout Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Ransburg Scout Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Ransburg Scout Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Ransburg Scout Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Ransburg Scout Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Ransburg Scout Reservation

    8.

    Ransburg Scout Reservation

    4 Reviews
    13 Photos
    8 Saves
    Harrodsburg, Indiana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Hoosier National Forest Southern Point Loop Campground

    9.

    Hoosier National Forest Southern Point Loop Campground

    1 Review
    1 Photo
    31 Saves
    Harrodsburg, Indiana

    This campground loop is a shady campground with 60 tent and trailer sites. This is the most remote and wooded of the loops at Hardin Ridge. Several of the sites are set back from the campground road and 14 of the tent sites are walk-in. None of the sites on Southern Point have electricity. ACTIVITIES Camping: This is one of six shady campground loops in the Hardin Ridge Recreation Area. It includes 60 sites, none of which are electric. Southern Point is generally open year-round. A maximum of 2 vehicles and 8 people are allowed per site. Recreational Vehicles: This is one of six shady campground loops in the Hardin Ridge Recreation Area. It includes 46 sites appropriate for RVs, none of which are electric. Southern Point is generally open year-round but if closed in winter months, another loop will be open. A maximum of 2 vehicles and 8 people are allowed per site. Wildlife Viewing: Each of the six shady campground loops in the Hardin Ridge Recreation Area provide ample opportunities to see wildlife. While staying in the campground you share the birds and animal's home and are likely to see them come right up to your campsite.

    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    Camper-submitted photo from Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground

    10.

    Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground

    3 Reviews
    16 Photos
    33 Saves
    Saint Croix, Indiana

    North Face Loop includes 36 individual sites. The loop contains centralized water, flush toilets, hot showers, and a recharge table for electric boat motors. A selection of single or extra large, electric or non-electric sites are available in this shady campground. During winter months only 3 electric sites are available and several non-electric sites. Water is only at frost free hydrants (no flush toilets or showers, though pit toilets are available). ACTIVITIES Camping: This is one of two shady campground loops in the Indian-Celina Lake Recreation Area. It includes 36 sites for tent or RV camping. Most of these sites are not electric. This loop is open year-round with reduced services and fees in the fall and winter months. A maximum of 2 vehicles and 8 people are allowed on a single site. The loop has two double sites which allow a maximum of 4 people and 16 people. Three of the sites are walk-in. Interpretive Programs: During the spring and summer seasons, visitors are encouraged to attend our interpretive programs. Programs are offered at the amphitheater near the Rickenbaugh House or in some cases a few programs may be held at other locations. For more information on programs at Indian-Celina Lake contact 812-547-7051. Recreational Vehicles: This is one of two shady campground loops in the Indian-Celina Lake Recreation Area. It includes 33 sites appropriate for RVs of various length spurs. Most of these sites are not electric. This loop is open year-round with reduced services and fees in the fall and winter months. A maximum of 2 vehicles and 8 people are allowed on a single site. The loop has two double sites which allow a maximum of 4 people and 16 people.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
Showing results 1-10 of 13 campgrounds

Recent Equestrian Reviews In Hoosier National Forest

116 Reviews of 13 Hoosier National Forest Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground
    July 13, 2024

    O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground

    Decent campground, best on weekdays

    Had the typical state park experience. Bathrooms are decent, a little dated but oh well. The weekends in the middle middle of the season are typically busy. Plan your site well, many lack a level spot for tents and have a lot of slope near the pull off.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest
    July 12, 2024

    Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    Spacious Camping

    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. Plenty of room to spread out from your neighbors; it wasn’t too busy when we were there (a Thursday). Camp accesses two trailheads directly. There were two bathrooms, a place for garbage, and potable water. Screech owls and active birds made it an exciting evening.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping
    July 3, 2024

    Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping

    Secluded in the woods

    Beautiful secluded site that is pretty far off of the road, but not too far. There was no traffic or other people in site. I have a promaster conversion and had no trouble making it to this site, however the road was gravel and steep at times. I have lived in Indiana for ever and have made many trips this way, but I never knew sites like this existed.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Yellowwood State Forest
    June 27, 2024

    Yellowwood State Forest

    Just did a drive thru

     This is a State Forest campground near Nashville, Indiana. Primitive camping. Pit toilets only. This is by Yellowwood Lake, so boating & fishing opportunities. 

    All these sites are first come, first serve. No reservations. 

    There's a Forest Office with area information & a small display. 

    There's several trails of varying length. 

    Believe it or not- gold panning is a thing here! You need a permit.

    They rent boats at the Forest Office. Electric motor only.

     There's several camping loops. There's a horse camp also. 

    The boat ramp is near the horse camp loop.

     We didn't go down the Red Pine Loop, but did check out White Oak/Redbud& Black Gum.

     Hickory loop is right off the road & the sites are visible from the road. They looked nicely spaced.

    White oak loop had several nice sites. Redbud is close to a building they call a camp store. It may have been many years ago, but not open now.

     Several picnic spots by the lake. The best site in Redbud would be 39. Large site with some shade. I would also say 38, but site 37 is directly behind it. This is the camp host spot, so occupied. These sites are near the pit toilets.

    The best spot in Black Gum would be site 75. Large site at the end of the loop & right by the lake.

     If you go back to Hwy 46 where the road split on your way in, follow the sign to the dam. Just a large earthen dam, but there's trail heads here. There's the Scarce O' Fat Trail which has been mentioned on the Facebook Indiana Hiking page.

    $13 per night regular camping.$16 per night for horseman's.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping
    June 6, 2024

    Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping

    Real dispersed camping

    For those of you who don't understand disperse camping this is the perfect site for a tent to camp without anything but what you bring in and take out understand what dispersed camping is and then there won't be any complaints about can't get a camper in or whatever I always see the complaints this is dispersed camping at its best

  • Camper-submitted photo from Youngs Creek Horse Camp
    June 3, 2024

    Youngs Creek Horse Camp

    Beautiful

    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.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Yellowwood State Forest
    April 29, 2024

    Yellowwood State Forest

    Great Camping & Fishing Combo

    Lots of primitive campsites here. Many have short trails from them to the lake edge, making for some great night fishing with a cozy fire to return to.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Spring Mill State Park Campground
    April 13, 2024

    Spring Mill State Park Campground

    Perfect location for the 2024 eclipse

    In January we found a couple of available sites at Spring Mill when trying to plan where we'd go for the eclipse, so we took them and then started looking at what the park had to offer. We started to really look forward to the park as much as the eclipse. The park lived up to expectations. We were able to do a lot of hiking. Our dog was welcome in most areas of the park (pioneer village being the only significant exception). They were planning for a ton of folks to be there for the eclipse, but the numbers were lower than expected. We had the perfect spot for viewing it right across the lane from our campsite, so it didn't really matter how many people came into the park for it. 

    The only possible negative was that our site wasn't very level for our pop up. We had our leveler with us, so it didn't matter. My wife and I decided that the eclipse was simply the cherry on top of a very good sundae. We loved the park and will likely return again.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping
    December 7, 2023

    Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping

    Great!

    Solo camped here with my dogs. First time I’ve ever been camping but this spot was really cool. Clean. Secluded and peaceful, though 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 and primally yelling. Very spooky! Awesome spot, though albeit I don’t have anything to compare it to. But I’m glad I found it!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping
    November 5, 2023

    Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping

    This is dispersed at its best!

    Free camp ground. Very private. Decent sized space to park for 2-3 vehicles. Trails, plenty of dry wood, away from the roads, no running water or electricity, decent amount of spaces we came in at night and counted about 9 very far spread out camp sights. Good ground to pitch a tent to. There was other camp grounds bigger than the one we stayed at and had several people at them with a big bonfire going but what’s great is when we found our spot we couldn’t see their fire or even hear them! One thing to note is that some of the camp sites are tucked back into the trees a little and can be hard to spot. At night we thought one was open but there was actually someone there and just couldn’t see them from the road so we had to back out and go to the next site (sorry whoever that was lol). It is also a ways off the beaten path for through car camping but honestly if we were ever coming back through this way I would make the hour detour to stop here again!

  • Camper-submitted photo from O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground
    October 12, 2023

    O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground

    Well kept and tons to see and do

    The park is well kept and organized. There are a ton of sites to visit and see. If you like hiking or mountain biking this is for you! Horse people love it also. The campground is near the trail to the old abandoned bridge which is well worth the hike. The fire tower has a commanding view. If you are not enjoying this park, not much else in Indiana will make you happy. Extra points: experienced cavers will enjoy the number of caves. These are by permit only however and novice non cavers should take a proper class and go with experts. There are multiple show caves in the area you can get a basic tour of also.

  • Camper-submitted photo from O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground
    September 11, 2023

    O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground

    Obannon Electric Campground

    This is a great place to camp and a wonderful spot for a stress-free getaway! There is a trailhead conveniently located within the campground, perfect for anyone who wants to hike without needing to travel to a secondary location. Our stay was peaceful and the nights were quiet and serene. Everyone was courteous and our neighbors were super friendly making our camping experience a great one!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping
    July 2, 2023

    Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping

    Peaceful and Secluded

    If you are looking for solitude and peace in the forest, you will find it here! I went to the 2nd or 3rd site past the coordinates provided. It was very clean, flat, and had a nice fire pit. The sites are far enough apart that I truly felt like I had the woods all to myself! It stormed all night...that was a little scary, but the misty trees in the morning were magnificent!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping
    June 17, 2023

    Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping

    It's pretty nice

    There are a couple walking trails around, as well each site is fairly far apart. It's really quite only seen a handful of cars drive by and I've stayed here for 2 nights, would highly recommend.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Hoosier National Forest Jackpine Loop Campground
    May 28, 2023

    Hoosier National Forest Jackpine Loop Campground

    Reservable don’t depend on first come

    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. The fees were a bit more than listed as well 28.00 per night or 18.00 for seniors / interagency pass holders. I assume the info we found multiple place including from here is just outdated.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Yellowwood State Forest
    September 18, 2022

    Yellowwood State Forest

    nashville indiana

    this is a nice campground in a very touristy area. we arrived on a thursday and stayed through sunday. it got more and more crowded friday & saturday but quiet hours were observed and it was a relaxing stay at the end of a long trip. it says big rig friendly, i disagree, we have a 20’ trailer and it was tight. the lake is beautiful, no swimming kinda sucked. hiking was great.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Spring Mill State Park Campground
    September 8, 2022

    Spring Mill State Park Campground

    Lots to see

    I really enjoyed the stay at this park. Lots of great hiking trails that are well traveled and easy to navigate. Plenty of signs. The pioneer village is beautiful and really something to see with staff playing as villagers of the period.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest
    August 26, 2022

    Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    Open field, clean vault toilets, not much shade

    If you’re a solar person, this is your spot! It’s a giant open field with vault toilets. It says horse camp, but anyone can stay here. If you’re looking for shade or here in the summer months, you may try elsewhere as there is not much shade to be had.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest
    August 7, 2022

    Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    Free w Easy parking but no water

    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

  • Camper-submitted photo from O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground
    July 24, 2022

    O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground

    Quite park, cool pool

    Park is located a good bit away from Corydon but not too bad of a drive for supplies. Campground roads and campsite were well labeled, clean and electric was in working order. Bath houses were 2.5/5 and could use some maintenance. Some shower facilities were substantially better than others so we chose to walk. Hiking was pretty non existent for middle aged kids and playground was pretty basic but well maintained. Cell service was OK. (T-Mobile 1-2 bars LTE and AT&T 1-3 bars). Pool was very nice with a splash pad and two water slides (42” height requirement) and a small concession stand. Have to pay entry to the pool wether you’re swimming or not. Nature Center was basic but well prepared with critters and educational items. Everything except the nature center was reachable via bikes. Fire tower was a cool one time thing. There is also an Ohio river overlook but we did not make it there.

    Tick were REALLY bad. Maybe the season, maybe the area, not sure.

    TLDR: 2/5 bath houses 4/5 park



Guide to Hoosier National Forest

Camping near Hoosier National Forest, Indiana, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something to offer.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the many trails in the area. Campers have enjoyed the well-marked paths and scenic views. One visitor mentioned, "The trails had pretty good signage, but the Lake Vista Trail had downed trees every 50 feet."
  • Fishing and Boating: Many campgrounds, like Starve Hollow State Rec Area, provide access to lakes for fishing and boating. A reviewer noted, "Starve Hollow Lake SRA has full hookups at half the campground and electric water access on the other half."
  • Wildlife Watching: The area is home to various wildlife. A camper at Blackwell Campground shared, "Screech owls and active birds made it an exciting evening."

What campers like:

  • Spacious Campsites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at places like Hardin Ridge. One visitor said, "Beautiful spacious sites. Spread out with plenty of room between sites."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds are noted for their cleanliness. A camper at Paynetown Campground remarked, "Restrooms/showers were state park clean. I was impressed with the hard-working staff trying their best to give us a clean bathroom!"
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. A visitor at Indian-Celina Recreation Area said, "Quiet. Friendly helpful staff."

What you should know:

  • No Water Hookups: Some campgrounds, like Patoka Lake Campground, do not have water hookups. A reviewer advised, "It's worth noting that there are no water hookups, so remember to fill your tank before arriving at your site."
  • Busy on Weekends: Many campgrounds can get crowded, especially during summer weekends. A camper at Paynetown Campground noted, "This is known in Indiana as a party park. It's VERY noisy & busy on a summer weekend."
  • Limited Shade: Some sites may lack shade, which can be a concern during hot weather. A visitor at Taylor Ridge Campground mentioned, "The sites are too close together. There's too many people crammed in a small space."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the Right Campsite: Look for sites that offer space and safety for kids. A camper at Buffalo Ridge Campground suggested, "Pay attention to your campsite for slope and camper accessibility."
  • Plan Activities: Keep kids entertained with hiking and fishing. One family enjoyed the "lots of hiking trails" at Spring Mill State Park Campground.
  • Be Cautious of Wildlife: Remind kids to keep food secured to avoid raccoon visitors. A camper at Fishermans Primitive Campground warned, "MAKE SURE TO PUT AWAY ALL OF YOUR FOOD!!! Even scraps and Yes even DOG FOOD."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Levels: Some sites may not be level, so it's good to check before setting up. A visitor at Taylor Ridge Campground noted, "The roads are not marked very well and it took a bit to find our site which needed level blocks."
  • Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups, but not all. A camper at Hardin Ridge mentioned, "There are 4 loops with 30 & 50 amp. 2 loops with no electric."
  • Plan for Crowds: If you prefer a quieter experience, consider camping during the week. A camper at Deam Lake State Rec Area said, "Super crowded on the weekends but not too bad during the week."

Camping near Hoosier National Forest, Indiana, has its perks and quirks. With the right planning, you can enjoy a fantastic outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Hoosier National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Hoosier National Forest is Spring Mill State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 22 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Hoosier National Forest?

    TheDyrt.com has all 13 equestrian camping locations near Hoosier National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.