Summit Lake State Park provides the primary equestrian camping facilities in the Mount Summit region of Indiana. Located about 16 miles from Mount Summit proper, the park features over 2,680 acres of woods, grasslands, and a 800-acre lake. The area maintains moderate humidity levels throughout camping season with summer temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F and spring/fall temperatures between 45-65°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Summit Lake State Park offers excellent fishing locations with varying shoreline access. "This is a nice park for those who want to camp/hike/fish and not travel too far from home. It's a relatively quiet campground with lots of different sites available, some of which are right on the water" notes Dave E. from Summit Lake State Park Campground.
Kayaking and canoeing: Multiple lakes in the region prohibit gas motors, creating ideal conditions for paddle sports. "We live summit lake. the campground has a lot of spots with ZERO trees so be sure to read the descriptions. the spots along the lake are beautiful but hard to book. we like the still lake for kayaking," shares Casse T. about Summit Lake State Park. At Westwood Park, Mark G. mentions "The lake doesn't allow gas motors so its one of the clearest lakes in central Indiana."
Trail riding: Whitewater Memorial State Park offers dedicated horseback riding trails connecting directly to the horse campground. "I came here and stayed in my tent (family had their horse trailer with camper) for a night during the chilly nights of October. I wish all campsites were like these - very, very spread out!" reports Brady R. from Whitewater Memorial State Park Campground.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Shower houses and restrooms are consistently noted as clean across multiple parks. "Facilities super clean," writes Dirty E. about Summit Lake State Park. At Hueston Woods State Park Campground, Charles K. notes: "VERY clean, there was a playground for the kids, bathroom and shower facilities were available, and lets not forget the easy access to fresh water and dumping stations!"
Spacious sites for horse trailers: Equestrian campsites are distinctly larger than standard camping spots. "Totally makes sense given that you have large horse trailers/campers and also horses at each site, but even then, they were very spread out and had lots of great space to actually enjoy nature," says Brady R. about Whitewater Memorial State Park.
Privacy options: Sites vary considerably in tree coverage and proximity to neighbors. "The second loop had what I was looking for. Stayed in 76, beautiful spot with lots of tree cover," shares Stephanie B. about Summit Lake State Park. Kelly H. observes at Westwood Park: "Sites are a little small, but do provide shade."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Review campground maps carefully before booking, as site conditions vary significantly. "When I arrived I was a little worried because the first loop was flat, grassy and open with very few trees in the camp spots good for hammocks. The second loop had what I was looking for," advises Stephanie B. about Summit Lake State Park.
Seasonal water access: Some campgrounds don't have water hookups active year-round. "We stayed before the peak season opened up. Potable water was available at the entrance but was not on yet in the campground itself," reports Marshall P. at Summit Lake State Park.
Wildlife precautions: Take proper food storage measures, especially at Pine Lake Fishing & Camping Resort. John F. warns about Whitewater Memorial: "Watch out for the 🦝 raccoons they are pretty aggressive and were all over our campsite. Clearly they are used to getting handouts, so keep your foodstuffs in you vehicle or well secured."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Multiple parks offer family-friendly activities beyond riding. "From walk in camping to painball hueston woods has it all. Lots of trails and creeks, biking, boating, play grounds, swimming, food, store, movie nights mini golf and more! They even have an animal preserve," explains Daniele M. at Hueston Woods State Park Campground.
Lake access considerations: Choose sites based on your water activity needs and safety concerns. "Nice spots, fairly flat overall, definitely aim for spots by lake for most spacious and views. Fishing and kayaking is it," advises Dirty E. about Summit Lake State Park.
Playground availability: Some campgrounds include dedicated children's play areas. "Very nice beach area. Nice playgrounds for the kids or grandkids," shares Rich K. about Horsemen's Camp — Whitewater Memorial State Park, noting amenities available throughout the larger park complex.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many sites require additional leveling equipment. "Our site was a pull through and, while level left to right, required a good bit of leveling front to back," notes Marshall P. about Summit Lake State Park.
Trailer access considerations: Some parks have limitations on larger rigs. "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," cautions Lisa M. regarding Summit Lake State Park.
Shared utilities: Setup may require longer hoses or extension cords. "The water is shared with your neighbor, so be sure to have a lo g hose," advises Laura W. about Summit Lake State Park.