Youngs Creek Horse Camp offers primitive equestrian camping with direct forest trail access 27 miles south of Mitchell. The campground provides tent and RV sites designed specifically for campers with horses. Located in Hoosier National Forest, the area features vault toilets and water sources for both horses and humans. Trail conditions vary by season with spring and fall offering the best riding conditions.
What to do
Trail riding access: Hoosier National Forest contains extensive horse trail systems connected to Youngs Creek Horse Camp. "The site has a toilet and water. If you head into the town of Paoli be sure to hit up the farmers co-op for supplies," notes David M., who appreciates the practical amenities available nearby.
Fishing opportunities: Spring Mill State Park Campground offers good fishing options within 30 minutes of Mitchell. "It's a large park with tons of trails and even several caves. Some caves are guided by boat. Very neat to see. Also has a pioneer village for touring along with a visitor center honoring astronaut Virgil Gus Grissom. Offers good fishing at the lake, electric motors only, but does offer trout," reports Donald T.
Cave exploration: The limestone geology around Mitchell supports numerous caves accessible from nearby campgrounds. "This was an amazing campground! There were amazing trails and a cave, as well as Pioneer Village which was so fascinating and well run," explains Lauren E. about Spring Mill State Park, making it an excellent base for underground adventures.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping provides free, primitive sites with privacy. "Beautiful secluded site that is pretty far off of the road, but not too far. There was no traffic or other people in site," writes Amber R., highlighting the tranquil setting for those seeking solitude near Mitchell.
Horse-friendly facilities: Equestrians appreciate the practicality of Blackwell Campground as another horse camping option. "Can't believe this place was free. It was nearly empty (although it was the end of November). The hiking was fantastic and the few people camping there were very well dispersed and all respectful," notes Kelly G., describing the uncrowded experience often available at this horse camp.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the maintenance standards at horse campgrounds. "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," writes Elizabeth W. about her experience at Youngs Creek Horse Camp.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Horse camp usage patterns fluctuate throughout the year. Blackwell Campground offers space even during popular times. "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," explains The Wandering Shores.
Trail conditions: Trails connecting to horse campgrounds vary in difficulty. "Great car camping experience! I solo camped here overnight and had a pleasant time. Before arriving I had questions about where I'd be able to camp. I called the local ranger line and they were super helpful," shares Krystyn S. about her preparation for camping at Blackwell.
Water access: Charles C. Deam Wilderness offers more primitive camping with limited water sources. "I would highly recommend this place to anyone looking to do some light backpacking for an overnight/weekend trip! Wonderful trails, dog friendly and nice places to camp off the trail. Heads up! Refill your water when you come across it; the lake is harder to get to than you think," advises Jessica T.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: For families with young children, choosing sites near play areas helps. At O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground, "We stayed in 220. It was nice to be right by the playground and bathrooms (which is what we wanted). Some spots near the back would be nice and secluded like the 180s and 190s and they're still not too far from the bathrooms and playground. The better playground is in loop A," shares Kelsey R.
Educational opportunities: Many campgrounds near Mitchell offer learning experiences. "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. at Spring Mill State Park.
Bug preparation: Insect activity varies by season but requires planning. "I packed in at the trailhead by a horse camp, so there was a bathroom before and after the trip. The only negative was that we came after a lot of rain. So everything is permanently wet and mosquitos/ticks abounded," cautions Sarah R. about Charles C. Deam Wilderness.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RVers should prepare for uneven terrain at some horse campgrounds. "Great boondocking spot, plenty of flat land making leveling easy. Wide open so solar charging was easy," notes The Wandering Shores about Blackwell Campground, contrasting with other less level sites in the region.
Access road conditions: Some horse campgrounds have limited RV access. "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," advises Juniper L. about Blackwell Campground.
Hookup limitations: Most horse campgrounds offer primitive camping without utilities. "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," explains Cj H., highlighting the need for self-sufficiency.
