Horsemen's Campground in Brown County State Park provides electrical hookups with 30-amp and 50-amp service for equestrian campers. The campground features wooden racks for tying horses rather than individual corrals, with water spigots positioned throughout the camping area. Facilities include showers, toilets, and sanitary dump stations. The camping area has variable shade coverage, with some sites in full sun during summer months. Drainage issues occur during heavy rainfall, affecting tie-up areas that may remain muddy due to limited sunlight exposure.
Access to the campground requires traveling a road that crosses creeks multiple times, which may have water covering sections during rainy periods. The park offers daily activities throughout the grounds, with riders accessing varied terrain across hills and valleys. Fall visits are notable for vibrant foliage. While shower facilities are generally maintained, they lack proper ventilation, resulting in persistently wet floors. Some wooden infrastructure throughout the horse camp shows signs of deterioration, indicating maintenance needs.
What to do
Trail riding at multiple locations: Brown County State Park features extensive trail systems across diverse terrain. At Ransburg Scout Reservation, visitors have access to "approximately 5 miles of hiking trails, equestrian school, 18 hole disc golf course, shelter houses, amphitheater, lakes, fishing and more," according to Stephen & Theresa B. The reservation provides varied outdoor activities beyond horseback riding.
Water recreation on nearby lakes: Yellowwood State Forest offers boating and fishing opportunities on Yellowwood Lake. Phil notes, "Plenty of bathrooms and campsites," making it convenient for visitors. Daisy C. adds, "Yellowwood lake is adjacent to the campground and there is a boat ramp, but there are limitations on boating(motor size). Check with the DNR website."
Hiking through unique landscapes: Charles C. Deam Wilderness provides trails through varied terrain. Jessica T. recommends: "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." Sarah R. shares a geological discovery: "I walked the creek for hours just looking at all the rocks on the sandbars. I have never encountered so many geodes in my life."
What campers like
Peaceful, secluded camping spots: Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping offers quiet locations away from crowds. James W. explains: "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." Amber R. confirms: "Beautiful secluded site that is pretty far off of the road, but not too far. There was no traffic or other people in site."
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Johnson County Park campground receives positive reviews for cleanliness. Janet F. states: "Very quiet and peaceful!! Clean bathrooms/showers!!! Park is nice and clean too!! Very reasonable!!" Another camper, Nomon K., notes: "Great Attitude and Service by the staff. I was warmly welcomed and escorted to my site. The only amenity not available is Sewage Hookup but they offer a dump instead."
Free or low-cost camping options: Several horse campgrounds near Mooresville, Indiana provide affordable camping experiences. At Blackwell Campground in Hoosier National Forest, Joe B. appreciates that "It is free camping and first come first serve. There are vault toilets. Plenty of space to spread out." Similarly, Phil mentions about Yellowwood State Forest: "It costs $13 now. Well maintained though."
What you should know
Limited amenities at dispersed sites: When camping at dispersed sites like Berry Ridge Road, expect minimal facilities. Jacob explains: "If you are into boondocking at all definitely check out berry ridge it's just south of brown county Indiana beautiful country mostly hills tons of camp spots sometimes half mile or more apart... no water or electric hookups plenty of wood lying around to use for a fire clean campsites all gravel roads."
Seasonal conditions affect accessibility: Weather impacts campground conditions throughout the year. At Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest, Cj H. notes: "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."
Reservation requirements vary: Some equestrian camping areas require advance planning while others don't. Daisy C. explains about Yellowwood State Forest: "Yellowwood state forest campground does not accept reservations. It is first come, first served. Drive up, select your site, and then go to the park office to pay using a self-pay envelope. Bring exact change(cash)."
Tips for camping with families
Select campgrounds with child-friendly amenities: Johnson County Park offers facilities suitable for families. Stephen & Theresa B. describe it as "an interesting conglomeration of activity. The park is 622 acres that include two campgrounds, approximately 5 miles of hiking trails, equestrian school, 18 hole disc golf course, shelter houses, amphitheater, lakes, fishing and more."
Consider sites with good access to water features: Turkey Run Canoe & Camping provides water activities suitable for families. Rowan G. shares: "Did a nice kayaking loop using their service. Had everything you needed, very chill experience." The proximity to water recreation adds entertainment options for children.
Check bathroom facilities before booking: Facility quality varies between campgrounds. At Yellowwood State Forest, Sammii D. notes: "They have outhouses for toilets. Some sites have water fountains. There is a picnicking area for day use only right off the water which is beautiful. Sites can hold 6 people total and come with a fire pit with a grill attachment."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many horse campgrounds near Mooresville require preparation for uneven terrain. At Yellowwood State Forest, Ron H. advises: "Very nice place! Hiking, fishing, kayaking, and horse riding trails... There is a few RV sites (9 or 10) mostly tent camping sites... I would have given 5 stars, but need some more sites for RVs (some of the sites are not real level)."
Electric hookup considerations: Check specific electrical service availability. At Turkey Run Canoe & Camping, Scott B. notes: "The electric is shared with another site which could be a problem if you have the same type of service since there is only one 50 amp, one 30 amp, and one 20 amp service per hook up."
Size restrictions at wilderness campgrounds: Large rigs have limited options at some horse-oriented sites. Stephen & Theresa B. caution about Yellowwood State Forest: "This park is perfect for tent camping or smaller units; we would not recommend for larger units as most sites are small and unlevel and may challenge your maneuvering skills!"
