Potato Creek State Park offers a distinctive equestrian camping experience with dedicated facilities for horses and riders. Sites in the equestrian camping area accommodate both camping equipment and horse trailers, providing ample space for visitors traveling with their animals. The park maintains multiple trail options specifically designed for horseback riding that traverse diverse terrain including forests, wetlands, and open fields. Trail difficulty varies to suit different rider experience levels, from beginners to more advanced equestrians.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: Trail 1 at Potato Creek State Park provides a scenic 1-mile loop with impressive summer views. As Kaley A. notes, "My favorite trail is probably number one, which is a 1 mile weird loop that has some neat scenery, especially in the summertime."
Mountain biking opportunities: The Peppermint Hill trail at Potato Creek offers both hiking and mountain biking options for visitors seeking more active recreation. "The Peppermint Hill mountain bike/hiking loop was really fun and not to be missed," reports Christy Y., highlighting one of the park's popular attractions.
Fishing and water activities: Tippecanoe River State Park provides fishing access, though results vary by season. "Fishing was poor according to my husband," mentions Cynthia K., suggesting anglers should temper expectations or research optimal fishing conditions before planning a trip.
What campers like
Spacious, shaded campsites: The electric sites at Potato Creek State Park offer good separation between neighbors and mature trees for shade. Frank M. recommends "securing a spot in the back sites 230-287 for larger lots and quieter atmosphere. Younger families tend to book up front near the playground and the noise and activities are more robust."
Comfort station amenities: Despite being older facilities, the bathhouses at Potato Creek remain well-maintained. Carl B. simply states, "Clean showers, maintained trails for hike or bike," highlighting the basic but functional amenities campers appreciate.
Playground access: Several sites at Tippecanoe River State Park provide direct access to the playground. According to Cynthia K., "Sites 2,3,4,6,&7 have direct access to a playground & you can watch your children from your site. All the interior sites by comfort station B have direct access to the playground from your site & you can watch your children from your site."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer visits to Tippecanoe River State Park require mosquito prevention. "The mosquitos get bad in the summer, so come prepared. We camped the end of May & they were just getting going. Spring & late fall would be a good time to visit," advises Cynthia K.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly between carriers at Tippecanoe River State Park. Monica C. reports, "I have AT&T service and could not use my phone at all, my husband has Verizon and had no problems with cell service."
Lake conditions: Water quality at Potato Creek can be affected by algae during warmer months. Tony P. notes, "Unfortunately, the lake was a little on the undesirable side...blue-green algae warnings made us not want to put more than our feet in the water. The beach area is nice, though."
Tips for camping with families
Campsite selection for kids: At Potato Creek, site location impacts noise levels. Frank M. advises, "Younger families tend to book up front near the playground and the noise and activities are more robust," which helps families choose locations based on their preferences.
Biking opportunities: The paved pathways at Potato Creek State Park accommodate young cyclists. "Bike trails, hiking trails, fishing, beach fun for the whole family," summarizes Brad H., highlighting the variety of activities available for all ages.
Educational opportunities: Tippecanoe River State Park occasionally hosts special events for families. Monica C. recalls, "Did participate in a star gazing event being held that weekend and it is still something my husband and I talk about regularly," demonstrating the lasting impact of park programming.
Tips from RVers
Hookup preparation: Electric connections at some Potato Creek sites require extended cords. Frank M. warns, "Be ready with back up cords, some sites require 75 ft to hook up," a practical consideration for RV campers planning their setup.
Water access planning: Tippecanoe River State Park requires filling water tanks before setting up camp. Cynthia K. advises, "Get water before setting up at the water station after the small gatehouse. There's 2 sides at the dump station."
Site recommendations: For RVers seeking pull-through convenience at Tippecanoe River State Park, options are limited. Cynthia K. notes, "Site 58 is the only pull through in the campground," providing essential information for those with larger rigs.
