Youngs Creek Horse Camp provides equestrian campers with primitive facilities in Hoosier National Forest. The area features 5-6 established camping sites with vault toilets and drinking water from an onsite pump. Sites include fire rings and sufficient space for both riders and non-riders seeking access to the extensive trail system. Located 5 miles from Paoli, this free campground attracts primarily horse enthusiasts, especially during organized trail rides when capacity fills quickly.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Riders at Youngs Creek Horse Camp can access a convenient loop trail directly from the camping area. "There is a trail that loops back to the site for easy hiking access," notes David M., making it ideal for day rides without needing to trailer horses between locations.
Explore nearby forests: The Hoosier National Forest surrounding Paoli offers extensive hiking beyond the horse camp. At Blackwell Campground, "we really liked the set up of this campsite. The fire rings were spread apart amidst a green hill... Camp accesses two trailheads directly," according to Josie W.
Water activities: For water recreation near Paoli, O'Bannon Woods State Park combines equestrian opportunities with water access. "O'Bannon woods has just about everything in one little nook, from fishing swimming and kayaking on blue River, a beach at the park. Swimming, horse trails and lodging," says Justin B.
What campers like
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate no-cost sites near Paoli. "We camp here every time we come to Indiana. We have camped there in a truck camper, and now we tent camp with our Jeep. The sites are large, and there are fire rings available," writes Susan A. about Youngs Creek Horse Camp.
Private camping spots: Many prefer the secluded nature of dispersed camping in the area. At Berry Ridge Road, "Beautiful secluded site that is pretty far off of the road, but not too far. There was no traffic or other people in site," reports Amber R., highlighting the privacy available in this area.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting attracts wildlife enthusiasts. "Screech owls and active birds made it an exciting evening," notes Josie W. about Blackwell Campground, while other campgrounds in the region offer similar wildlife observation opportunities.
What you should know
Site amenities vary widely: Facilities differ significantly between established and dispersed sites near Paoli. For basic equestrian camping, "There are vault toilets and a fresh water pump not far from them," at Youngs Creek Horse Camp according to Susan A.
Weather considerations: Seasonal conditions affect camping experiences in the Paoli area. "This camp ground is delightful. All of the sites are spaced far enough away that you'll have your privacy. The sites are clean and spacious as well as very flat for tents," reports Chelsi S. from Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop.
Road conditions: Access to some camping areas requires navigation on unimproved roads. Berry Ridge Road requires caution as "the road was gravel and steep at times," according to Amber R. Similarly, roads to horse camping areas may present challenges for larger vehicles during wet conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly water activities: Deam Lake State Recreation Area offers safe water recreation for children. "Perfect lake to kayak for a beginner bc no wake zone also the cabins are cool and cozy," explains Brandy A., making it suitable for introducing children to water sports.
Educational opportunities: Families can combine camping with learning at several sites near Paoli. "The nature center was so cool with ranger tours. Several hiking trails with various difficulties," notes Donald S. about O'Bannon Woods State Park.
Accessible facilities: For families needing established facilities, Spring Mill State Park provides numerous amenities. "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!" shares Jessie W.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for leveling: RVers should check site conditions before setting up near Paoli. "Plenty of flat land making leveling easy. Wide open so solar charging was easy," notes The Wandering Shores about Blackwell Campground, an important consideration for larger vehicles.
Limited hookup availability: Most equestrian camping areas near Paoli have minimal services for RVs. While some provide electrical access, water and sewer hookups are less common, requiring self-containment for longer stays.
Seasonal accessibility: RVers should verify road conditions during wet seasons. Several camping areas including Berry Ridge Road can become challenging after rain, with one reviewer noting, "I would not bring a RV here especially after rain."
