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Equestrian Camping near New Carlisle, IN

5 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.

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    SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

    Potato Creek State Park Campground features trail rides for equestrian campers, with a separate dedicated campground area for horse lovers. Located 17 miles from New Carlisle, Indiana, this park offers extensive riding opportunities through wooded areas, wetlands, and prairie landscapes. The equestrian campground includes basic amenities for both riders and horses, with spacious sites that can accommodate trailers and corrals. Bathrooms and showers are maintained regularly, though some visitors note facilities are older. The park maintains miles of bridle paths that connect directly to the camping area, allowing for convenient daily rides.

    The equestrian trail system at Potato Creek provides varied terrain suitable for riders of all experience levels. Trails wind through natural wetlands, wooded sections, and open prairie, offering diverse riding environments throughout the seasons. Mosquito protection is essential during summer months when riding through wetland sections. Water access points for horses are available along certain trail routes, though riders should bring supplementary water during dry periods. The park requires advance reservations for equestrian campsites, especially during peak summer and fall weekends when the horse camping area frequently reaches capacity. Trail conditions remain well-maintained throughout the riding season, with park staff regularly clearing obstacles and maintaining trail markers to ensure safe navigation for mounted riders.

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    Best Equestrian Campgrounds near New Carlisle (5)

      1. Potato Creek State Park Campground

      4.5(51)12mi from New Carlisle365 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "I feel this is one of the best state parks in Indiana. Come with your own water as they don’t have water hookups at your campsite but there are some nearby. The sites are very spacious and clean."

      "Younger families tend to book up front near the playground and the noise and activities are more robust. Be ready with back up cords, some sites require 75 ft to hook up."

      from $20 - $110 / night

      Check Availability

      2. Tippecanoe River State Park Campground

      4.2(30)41mi from New Carlisle188 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "There was a horse camp available as well as youth tenting and cabins to rent. This is a great State Park with more things to offer in addition to the ones mentioned above."

      "Trails and the river close by. Bathrooms are phenomenal!! Enjoy!"

      from $14 - $55 / night

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      3. Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday

      4.7(17)41mi from New Carlisle97 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Good spots for RV/pull behind/tents. Clean facilities and only a 20 min drive from South Haven’s beautiful beaches!"

      "Nice very busy pool and slide, play areas, walking trail, camp store with hot food. Not far from Lake Michigan and places to buy fresh fruit and veggies. Check it out you'll be happy you did."

      4. Elkhart County Fairgrounds

      3.5(8)36mi from New CarlisleRVs, Tents

      "Overall Rating: 4 for access to the area, very clean facilities, and not too many campers thus time of year.
      Price 2024: $35 for water/electric only."

      "A little close to your neighbors but the way the sites are angled you had plenty of room. Very friendly people. Easy in and out."

      5. Kosciusko County Fairgrounds

      2.0(1)47mi from New CarlisleRVs, Tents

      from $5 - $10 / night

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    Equestrian Camping Reviews near New Carlisle, IN

    107 Reviews of 5 New Carlisle Campgrounds


    • Jessica L.
      Jul. 28, 2016

      Potato Creek State Park Campground

      Activities for all seasons...

      ...although you probably wouldn't want to camp in the Indiana winter. I grew up coming here mostly to sled on the hills! But, there is a lot more to do. It surrounds Worster Lake and there are cabins, RV sites, and tent sites along with horse trails and bike trails. In the winter, there's sledding hills and ice fishing. The campgrounds are pretty standard, nothing special. If you live in the area, it's a fine little getaway.

    • D
      Apr. 25, 2019

      Potato Creek State Park Campground

      A wonderful state campground

      I feel this is one of the best state parks in Indiana. Come with your own water as they don’t have water hookups at your campsite but there are some nearby. The sites are very spacious and clean. Bath houses are always clean! Playground areas for the kids throughout the park lots of bike and walking trails. No pools but a beautiful man made lake for swimming and fishing. Lots of wildlife throughout the park. A great nature center is a must to see for the little ones. My family has camped here for many years. There is also a separate campground for horse lovers.

    • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
      Sep. 8, 2019

      Potato Creek State Park Campground

      Campground=4 stars; check-in=2 stars

      Campground= 4 stars; check-in= 2 stars. Very large campground with close to 300 sites plus a horse camp and about 20 cabins. We picked this park solely because it was convenient to our next destination, so we were not concerned with amenities. We did not make a reservation because I really do not want to pay the extra fee if it is not necessary. Upon arrival, we paid the $9 entrance fee ($7 for Indiana residents) and drove the 3 miles to the campground office. Somewhat surprised to find both staffed at 6 pm on a Thursday after Labor Day. We were told to drive around and pick several desired sites as they could not tell us which ones still had people due to arrive that night who had reserved. Huh?? So, we drove around two of the five loops and picked half a dozen sites that would be suitable. But that’s where the fun began- not! There seemed to be some computer glitch in that every site we asked about showed as not available, even though more than half the sites were empty. Eventually, we were told to just go to one of the sites we picked and set up and that a security guard would come and collect our money. Eventually, at just before 9 pm, the security guard did come and told us the glitch had been fixed and asked that we come to the office and register. The glitch was not fixed! But we paid our fee and were able to stay the night and the staff was very apologetic. 

      There is no differentiation between RV and tent sites (the only one that is separate is the horse camp). The E Loop seemed to be the most crowded, mostly with RVs. The sites in the D Loop were spaced a decent amount of distance apart but other than that, there was no real privacy between them. This was not a problem because the loop had many empty sites and we were able to easily find one that had an empty one on either side of us. There are paths to the beach accessible from the D and E loops but note the beach is only open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. There is no longer a dog beach at Potato Creek. There is a general store(open until 8 pm) and bike rentals which, if we were going to stay longer, we might have taken advantage of. There are boat rentals in season. Several trails and playgrounds so I imagine that in the summer, this is a nice family campground (even the name is Family campground). 

      The mosquitos were vicious, likely worse due to the amount of rain the area has had this year. Bathrooms were very clean and there was hot water, a nice luxury but you have to be careful not to bump your head on the shelf over the sink when washing your face. Didn’t use them but there were also showers. 

      The check-in process notwithstanding, our stay was fine for the night.

    • Nancy W.The Dyrt PRO User
      Sep. 23, 2017

      Elkhart County Fairgrounds

      Typical Fairgrounds Camping Experience

      I have camped here a couple of times while visiting northern Indiana to have repairs done on my RV. Overall, I like this campground where for $30/night you can get a 50 amp full hook-up site or $23/night a 30 amp and water site. If you plan on staying longer weekly and monthly rates are really good. The campground sits in the middle of the county fairgrounds so there is usually something going on – either a fair, concert, horse event, or an RV rally. Depending on what time of year you are here and part of the week, the campground could be very crowded or very empty. The nice thing is the people in the office let you pick whatever site you want and don’t assign one to you. There are 275 full hook-up sites with 50 amp full hook-up and 30 amp water & electric only. There are no fires allowed and some sites don’t have picnic tables but you can request one and they will bring it to your site.

      There is very little shade and during my last visit the late September fall temperatures climbed to nearly 90 degrees and was brutal. This campground is better suited for RVs than tents but you are permitted to tent camp. Bathrooms and showers are scattered about and I was amazed at always how clean they (and the grounds as a whole) are. They do offer WiFi which worked pretty well in non-peak hours like early morning but was not reliable and sometimes frustrating. Since many sites have a clear view of the sky, you most likely will get satellite television reception and a dozen or so antenna channels.

      One of the things I like about this park is the vast expanse of grounds to wander about walking my dog. There is a trail system just outside of the park that allows you miles and miles of walking and biking trails. Downtown Goshen is less than two miles away and has some great restaurants (including Venturi Pizza, Maple Indian Cuisine – which has an awesome buffet, and Goshen Brewing Company). The Saturday farmers market is great with lots of produce, breads, meats, cheeses, and crafts.

      The last time I visited coincided with the Mennonite Relief Fund which was a big fund raiser for their charity that packed the grounds with stuff for sale, food, and activities. It was fun to be there during the event but it meant the campground and grounds were packed.

      Now for the bad about this campground. It is located right next to very busy train tracks that operate 24/7 and blow their horns quite often. They were really annoying in the middle of the night. Sites are close together so if it is crowded and you have a neighbor, you will be right on top of them. There is no shade which can be very miserable.

      Pros:

      · Price - $30/night for a 50 amp full hook-up site

      · Nearby downtown stores and restaurants

      · Sites are not assigned so you can pick where you want to camp

      · Grassy patios

      · Large grounds to meander around

      · Nearby biking/walking trail

      Cons:

      · Very noisy from nearby trains operated at all hours

      · Few trees for shade or privacy

      · Some sites are very tight and close to your neighbor

      · Can be very crowded

      · WiFi provided but not reliable

    • Frank M.
      Mar. 22, 2017

      Potato Creek State Park Campground

      Family favorite

      My wife and I come here every year since purchasing our travel trailer. We recommend securing a spot in the back sites 230-287 for larger lots and quieter atmosphere. Younger families tend to book up front near the playground and the noise and activities are more robust. Be ready with back up cords, some sites require 75 ft to hook up. With dog friendly beaches, beginner MTB trails and paved bike paths, this checks all our boxes. Natural wetlands abound, so definitely bring the mosquito spray. Typical Indiana Campground with basic amenities, older comfort stations and spotty WIFI. I like unplugging but sometimes work demands I respond promptly. Not too far from South Bend for city amenities, restaurants and supplies. Takes 10-15 mins to drive out of campground, so keep this in mind. Definitely keep coming back!

    • Thomas U.
      Aug. 11, 2018

      Tippecanoe River State Park Campground

      Good place to camp and Kayak

      Great place for a weekend camping trip of kayaking and some hiking.

      Pro's

      • Large Campsites
      • Clean showers and bathrooms
      • 2 kayak ramps with ability to hike in between them
      • Fire tower
      • Great views in the river
      • Horse Trails

      Con's

      • No privacy in campsites, so it more of a RV's / partying camping
      • Hiking is mainly flat trails thru the woods
      • No Camp Store, the Host sold firewood and Ice
    • C
      Oct. 23, 2019

      Potato Creek State Park Campground

      Beautiful Park

      We have been blown away by the efforts put into Indiana’s state parks and Potato Creek is no exception. Well kept, beautiful grounds and trails. Restrooms are a bit dated, but clean and functioning. Our daughter loved the play area and huge grassy area to run around on. The Peppermint Hill mountain bike/hiking loop was really fun and not to be missed. Seems like a very popular place, even in the off season, so you’re best bet is to make a reservation or call ahead to make sure they can accommodate you.

    • Kaley A.
      Jan. 31, 2025

      Potato Creek State Park Campground

      Nice Park

      I’ve not camped at this park, only hiked it. I’ve probably hiked it two dozen times at least and it’s got nice trails for the part of Indiana that it’s in. Most of them are relatively flat with some trails,like number two, having some hills and stairs in them. My favorite trail is probably number one, which is a 1 mile weird loop that has some neat scenery, especially in the summertime.

    • Roger W.The Dyrt PRO User
      Sep. 25, 2024

      Elkhart County Fairgrounds

      Area Convenient and Clean

      Elkhart County 4-h Fairgrounds: (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good

      (72 yr olds in 27’ trailer.)

      Overall Rating: 4 for access to the area, very clean facilities, and not too many campers thus time of year.
      Price 2024: $35 for water/electric only. Security: No Usage during visit: Very light Visual Privacy Between Adjacent Sites: none Site Spacing: very close Pad surface: our area was grass Reservations: Yes Campground Noise: Quiet except for one day of motorcycle raises at the nearby track.
      Outside Road Noise: Not most sites Through Traffic in campground: Some for activities at the fairground Electric Hookup: Yes Sewer Hookup: some sites Dump Station: yes Potable Water Available: At sites Bathroom: Very nice flush toilets Showers: yes Pull Throughs: Yes Cell Service (AT&T): Varied throughout campground Setting: open grass fields around very well manicured county fairground. Recent Weather: 70s and rain. Insects:None Host: I am not sure.
      Rig Size: Large Sites: full hookups and water/electric only


    Guide to New Carlisle

    Potato Creek State Park Campground provides non-equestrian camping options 17 miles from New Carlisle, Indiana. The park features 287 campsites spread across multiple loops, with sites 230-287 offering more spacious lots and a quieter atmosphere. While the equestrian trails wind through wetlands and prairie, the park also contains designated hiking paths, mountain biking routes, and fishing spots for non-equestrian visitors.

    What to do

    Hike diverse trail systems: Several trails accommodate both casual and experienced hikers. At Potato Creek State Park Campground, "Trail number one is a 1 mile weird loop that has some neat scenery, especially in the summertime" according to reviewer Kaley A. Most trails remain relatively flat with some moderate hills.

    Fish in designated lake areas: The park allows fishing with restrictions on motor types. "The park maintains a big electric motor only fishing lake and nice beach," reports Brandon E. who visited during a father-son camping trip. Fishing permits are required, available at entrance gates or camp stores.

    Mountain bike on beginner-friendly trails: The park offers dedicated mountain biking paths suitable for novice riders. "The Peppermint Hill mountain bike/hiking loop was really fun and not to be missed," suggests Christy Y., who explored the trails during the off-season.

    What campers like

    Spacious campsites with strategic location options: The campground layout allows for different camping experiences based on preference. At Potato Creek State Park, Frank M. advises "securing a spot in the back sites 230-287 for larger lots and quieter atmosphere. Younger families tend to book up front near the playground and the noise and activities are more robust."

    Well-maintained shower facilities: Despite being older, the shower buildings receive regular cleaning. According to Carl B., visitors can expect "clean showers, maintained trails for hike or bike." Water pressure remains consistent even during peak usage times.

    Convenient biking infrastructure: The paved paths connect camping loops to amenities and recreation areas. "Hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, what more could you ask for. We love it here," states Jason S. The bike paths accommodate riders of all ages and skill levels.

    What you should know

    WiFi limitations for remote workers: Cell coverage and internet connectivity vary throughout the campground. Frank M. notes that Potato Creek has "typical Indiana Campground with basic amenities, older comfort stations and spotty WIFI. I like unplugging but sometimes work demands I respond promptly."

    Campground access timing: The entrance gate location requires planning for arrivals and departures. "Takes 10-15 mins to drive out of campground, so keep this in mind," cautions Frank M. This timing becomes important when scheduling day trips or supply runs.

    Seasonal mosquito management: The wetland areas throughout the park support mosquito populations. At Tippecanoe River State Park, a similar wetland campground, Cynthia K. suggests "Spring and late fall would be a good time to visit" to avoid peak mosquito season, noting "We camped the end of May and they were just getting going."

    Tips for camping with families

    Playground accessibility from specific sites: Certain campsites offer direct supervision of playground areas. Tony P. appreciated that Potato Creek "had all the amenities we needed" including "bike trails, parks, lake" that kept his family entertained throughout their stay.

    Beach considerations for young swimmers: The swimming area features a designated beach but requires monitoring water conditions. "Blue-green algae warnings made us not want to put more than our feet in the water. The beach area is nice, though," reports Tony P. Check with park staff about current water quality before planning swimming activities.

    Alternative family activities during inclement weather: When outdoor recreation isn't possible, campers can find indoor options. At Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday, located about an hour from New Carlisle, Hannah S. notes it offers "clean facilities and only a 20 min drive from South Haven's beautiful beaches!" providing a backup plan for rainy days.

    Tips from RVers

    Electric hookup preparation: Sites require varying cable lengths based on location. Frank M. suggests visitors "be ready with back up cords, some sites require 75 ft to hook up" at Potato Creek State Park. Electric service includes 30 and 50-amp options at designated sites.

    Dump station timing strategy: During busy checkout periods, dump station lines can form. Brad H., who frequents the area for "bike trails, hiking trails, fishing, beach fun for the whole family," recommends using the dump station during off-peak hours to avoid waiting.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near New Carlisle, IN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near New Carlisle, IN is Potato Creek State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 51 reviews.

    What is the best site to find equestrian camping near New Carlisle, IN?

    TheDyrt.com has all 5 equestrian camping locations near New Carlisle, IN, with real photos and reviews from campers.