Campers looking for equestrian facilities near Noblesville, Indiana can find options within a 30-60 minute drive of the city. The surrounding countryside features rolling hills and mixed hardwood forests typical of central Indiana, with elevations ranging from 800-900 feet above sea level. Most horse campgrounds in this region operate seasonally from mid-spring through mid-fall, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Horseback riding: At Westwood Park, equestrians can enjoy designated horse trails separate from the hiking paths. "There is a 10 mile hiking/biking trail all the way around the lake. There are horse riding trails too," notes Stephen H., highlighting the trail diversity available.
Fishing: Westwood Park offers excellent fishing opportunities in a no-gas-motor lake. "The lake is nice. Lots of small bass. If you have a boat, trolling motors only," shares Stephen H. Mark G. adds, "The lake doesn't allow gas motors so it's one of the clearest lakes in central Indiana."
Hiking: Summit Lake State Park Campground features multiple trail options for all skill levels. "Lots of great hiking trails in the area," mentions Lisa M., who appreciated the park's natural amenities. Marshall P. notes, "Trails around the lake were nice with many opportunities for scenic photographs."
Kayaking: Non-motorized water sports are popular at area lakes. "We like the still lake for kayaking," explains Casse T. about Summit Lake. Rich K. confirms, "Beautiful lake for kayaking! If you don't own a kayak or canoe, they offer rentals."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Johnson County Park maintains well-kept amenities. "Clean bathrooms/showers!!! Park is nice and clean too!!" Janet F. reports. Similarly, at Westwood Park, Kelly H. notes, "The entire park and campground are clean and well maintained. The bathhouse at the campground is pretty nice."
Lakefront sites: Summit Lake State Park offers premium waterfront camping. "The spots along the lake are beautiful but hard to book," warns Casse T. Dirty E. advises, "Nice spots, fairly flat overall, definitely aim for spots by lake for most spacious and views."
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peaceful settings. Greg C. describes Westwood Park as a "Quiet small hidden campground." Jerry D. calls Johnson County Park a "Nice but bare bones former military campground," noting its understated charm.
Wildlife viewing: The natural settings provide opportunities to spot native species. Summit Lake's trails offer good wildlife viewing, though Laura W. warns about Westwood Park: "The lake is not swimmable, beware of snakes."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: While Summit Lake accepts reservations, Pine Lake Fishing & Camping Resort operates differently. Westwood Park has no reservation system, as Kelly H. explains: "One drawback is the no reservation policy. While that can be a good thing at times, if you want to weekend camp, you better plan on setting up your site on Wednesday or Thursday."
Site characteristics: Summit Lake has varied camping areas. Stephanie B. notes, "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." Laura W. mentions Summit Lake's utilities: "The water is shared with your neighbor, so be sure to have a long hose."
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the area have limited operating seasons. Westwood Park is only open "mid May-mid Oct" according to official information. During shoulder seasons, facilities may be limited, as Marshall P. discovered: "Potable water was available at the entrance but was not on yet in the campground itself."
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. Lisa M. cautions about Summit Lake: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Johnson County Park provides dedicated play areas. "Other amenities include a restroom and shower facility, playground for children and community campfire ring," notes Stephen & Theresa B. Westwood Park also offers "a small playground area for the kids," according to Kelly H.
Swimming options: Summit Lake features designated swimming areas. Rich K. mentions, "Very nice beach area" among the park's family-friendly amenities. He adds that they offer "a variety of programs/activities" suitable for different ages.
Tent camping limitations: Families should check current policies before planning trips. Chris W. warns about Johnson County Park: "They used to have awesome tent camping sites, but they stopped allowing tent camping. RV/camper's are the only thing they allow now."
Museum proximity: Pine Lake's location offers educational opportunities. Debbie S. reports, "This was really convenient and close to Indy, where we took the grandkids to the children's museum."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many sites require equipment for proper leveling. Marshall P. shares about Summit Lake: "Our site was a pull through and, while level left to right, required a good bit of leveling front to back." Similar experiences are reported at other area campgrounds.
Hookup availability: Summit Lake State Park offers various utility connections. Scott P. mentions, "They had an easily accessed boat launch and we enjoyed the lake and some fishing." Johnson County Park provides "30amp/50amp electric and water hook ups, level gravel pads (4 sites are paved) and a dump station," according to Stephen & Theresa B.
Site spacing concerns: Proximity to neighbors varies by location. Stephanie B. notes about Summit Lake: "Only downside is that sites are very close together and it's a popular campground so there isn't much privacy." At Westwood Park, Chrissy S. mentions, "Campground leaves a bit to be desired since the tent sites are a tad small."
Large rig accessibility: For those with bigger setups, Johnson County Park may be preferable. Nomon K. notes it has "Very open wide spaced sites" though "Shade is hard to come by." Stephen & Theresa B. confirm the campground is "large rig friendly."
