Youngs Creek Horse Camp sits within the Hoosier National Forest approximately 30 miles from Jasper, Indiana. The campground ranges in elevation from 600-700 feet above sea level and experiences moderate seasonal temperature variations with summer highs typically reaching 85-90°F. The surrounding mixed hardwood forest contains oak, hickory, and maple trees that provide substantial shade coverage for most campsites.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Equestrians can access connected trail systems that extend throughout the Hoosier National Forest from Youngs Creek Horse Camp. According to Elizabeth W., "Lots of wildlife, and kind people" can be found along the trails. The chorus frogs create a natural soundtrack during evening rides.
Explore nearby caves: Visit caves within a 30-minute drive from the area's horse campgrounds near Jasper, Indiana. The Spring Mill State Park Campground features underground adventures where "Some caves are guided by boat. Very neat to see," notes Donald T. The park's Pioneer Village provides historical context to the region.
Fishing access: Most recreation areas offer fishing opportunities in stocked lakes. David M. mentions that Youngs Creek "accommodates both horse, drive in and walk-in camping" with trails that "loop back to the site for easy hiking access" to reach prime fishing spots.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: While some horse camps have limited privacy, others offer more secluded options. At Hoosier National Forest Jackpine Loop Campground, Cathleen T. notes that "Sites are large and private, with trees and greenery between most all sites" and even "when the campground is full, you don't feel like there are a lot of people."
Wildlife viewing: The forests surrounding Jasper's horse camps host diverse wildlife. In Tipsaw Lake area, campers regularly observe "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," according to Cathleen T.
Quiet atmosphere: Many equestrian camping areas maintain a peaceful environment. Mark D. describes Youngs Creek as "A quiet, peaceful spot in the forest" with "A few horses on the trail on weekends," offering a serene camping experience without excessive noise.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many equestrian campgrounds have limited services during off-season months. The Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground remains open year-round but with reduced amenities during winter. Shelly S. advises, "Bring your bug stuff!" as "the tick's here seem like the Infantry, swarming the objective from all side's."
Supply options: Small towns near horse campgrounds offer basic provisions. David M. recommends, "If you head into the town of Paoli be sure to hit up the farmers co-op for supplies." Susan A. adds that "It is only five miles from Paoli, and there is a Walmart there if you need supplies."
Road conditions: Access roads to equestrian campgrounds may present challenges. Elizabeth W. advises visitors to "travel carefully up the roads" to Youngs Creek Horse Camp, particularly after rain when unpaved surfaces can become muddy.
Tips for camping with families
Beach facilities: Several recreation areas include swimming options for children. At O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground, Kyle notes the "Pool was very nice with a splash pad and two water slides (42" height requirement) and a small concession stand." Tipsaw Lake features "a nice beach facility (no dogs on beach) with small picnic pavilions on cement walkways."
Nature programs: Educational opportunities abound at state parks near Jasper's horse camps. Donald S. mentions that O'Bannon Woods has a "great nature center w ranger tours" and "several hiking trails w various difficulties" appropriate for different age groups.
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature play areas for children. Kelsey R. notes at O'Bannon Woods that staying in site 220 was "nice to be right by the playground and bathrooms" and "The better playground is in loop A," providing convenient recreation options for families.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV campers should prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. The Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground features "Moderately wooded, well spaced, basic sites," but Chelsi S. specifically notes the sites are "very flat for tents," making them less ideal for larger RVs without leveling equipment.
Electric options: Electric hookups vary significantly between campgrounds. Derek J. found at O'Bannon Woods that "50,30,20 amp service in one box" was available, but warns "There was no water at the site" and recommends using "potable water spigots that you can hook up to and add water to your tank."
Campground navigation: Some parks have confusing layouts for first-time visitors. Derek J. cautions about O'Bannon Woods: "There is also hardly any signage and spots are difficult to find. No arrows about which way to go, signs saying which loop you're in, and spots are only marked on the electrical boxes."
