Westwood Park offers equestrian recreation near New Castle with 10 miles of hiking and horse riding trails circling the lake. Trolling motors only are permitted on the water, making it one of the clearest lakes in central Indiana. The campground consists of 33-38 sites that operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. Sites include electric hookups and access to water, with most providing shade from mature trees.
What to do
Fishing from shoreline or boat: Summit Lake State Park Campground features multiple fishing spots along the 2.5-mile lake. "We enjoyed the lake and some fishing. There was alot of surface plant life to catch our lines on," notes Scott P., who visited the park despite ongoing restroom renovations.
Horseback riding on maintained trails: Horse riders can access designated bridle paths at Westwood Park, where Stephen H. reports "There are horse riding trails too." The park's 10-mile trail network accommodates equestrians with adequate parking for horse trailers in day-use areas.
Kayaking on motor-restricted waters: Greg C. describes Westwood Park as having a "nice lake for kayaking" with restrictions on gas motors that keep the waters calm. Summit Lake State Park also accommodates paddlers, with Casse T. sharing, "we like the still lake for kayaking," noting the importance of choosing campsites with adequate shade.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Johnson County Park receives praise for its well-maintained grounds. "Clean bathrooms/showers!!! Park is nice and clean too!!" reports Janet F. The park includes 58 sites with electric and water hookups, level gravel pads, and a dump station.
Lake access and views: For visitors to Summit Lake State Park Campground, waterfront sites are highly desired. Dave E. notes, "It's a relatively quiet campground with lots of different sites available, some of which are right on the water." Dirty E. suggests visitors "definitely aim for spots by lake for most spacious and views."
Trails for multiple activities: Westwood Park receives positive reviews for its trail system. Chrissy S. calls it a "Hidden gem" where "Trails are well maintained and lake is beautiful no matter when you go." The park balances equestrian use with hiking opportunities across its extensive trail network.
What you should know
Campsite availability limitations: At Westwood Park, Kelly H. warns about the no-reservation policy: "if you want to weekend camp, you better plan on setting up your site on Wednesday or Thursday. Always call ahead before heading that way to see if they have sites available."
Site leveling challenges: At Summit Lake State Park Campground, Marshall P. noted that while their "site was a pull through and, while level left to right, required a good bit of leveling front to back." Lisa M. similarly reported that beyond the first loop, "The rest of the sites were fairly unlevel, but were in shaded areas."
Seasonal water access: When visiting equestrian-friendly campgrounds in cooler seasons, water availability may be limited. As Marshall P. experienced at Summit Lake: "Potable water was available at the entrance but was not on yet in the campground itself."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Kelly H. notes that Westwood Park has "a small playground area for the kids" near the campground. The park's combination of play areas and lake access makes it suitable for families seeking horse camping near Fishers, Indiana.
Beach and water activities: Summit Lake State Park offers family-friendly water recreation according to Rich K.: "Very nice beach area. Nice playgrounds for the kids or grandkids." The park also provides equipment rentals: "If you don't owe a kayak or canoe, they offer rentals."
Space considerations: Westwood Park campsites have limitations for larger family setups. Chrissy S. mentions "the tent sites are a tad small" while Kelly H. elaborates that "Sites are a little small, but do provide shade. Enough to park two cars in each site."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Lisa M. warns about navigating Summit Lake State Park Campground: "I would think a rig more than 31 or 32 feet long would have difficulty maneuvering around the curve at the end of the second loop. We are a 30ft. Fifth wheel and it was pretty tight for us."
Site selection strategy: For RVers visiting equestrian-friendly parks near Fishers, Summit Lake State Park offers varying campsite conditions. Laura W. notes that "The water is shared with your neighbor, so be sure to have a long hose," highlighting the importance of adequate hookup preparation.
Hookup availability: Johnson County Park offers good value for RVers, with Jerry D. describing it as "Nice but bare bones former military campground." Nomon K. adds, "The only amenity not available is Sewage Hookup but they offer a dump instead. Very open wide spaced sites. Shade is hard to come by."
