Equestrian camping near Poland, Indiana offers diverse terrain options across the southern region's rolling hills and forested landscapes. The area receives approximately 44 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush vegetation during spring and summer months, with temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Campgrounds throughout the region connect to extensive trail systems suitable for both novice and experienced riders.
What to do
Trail riding through varied terrain: Brown County State Park's Horsemen's Campground connects riders to multiple difficulty levels of trails. "It is Beautiful! I have only been twice and we took our hours to trail ride! There are a lot of fun hills and trails that you can ride for hours which we love to do," notes reviewer Bria M.
Fishing in nearby waterways: Yellowwood State Forest provides fishing opportunities at Yellowwood Lake. "We have also had lots of fun renting a rowboat, and being out on the water. A few times we have camped in groups and rented an area, and that was also a great time camping with friends," states Margo B.
Hiking natural formations: Take advantage of unique geological features at Turkey Run State Park Campground, located about 40 miles northwest of Poland. "There are multiple trails and some quite challenging ones. No water hookups at the site but all except the 'youth sites' had 110, 30, and 50 amp power. On one trail part of it went through box canyons up an active, though trickling, stream bed," explains Leif D.
What campers like
Private, wooded campsites: Many equestrian-friendly locations offer secluded spots. "Very beautiful yet primitive campground. All the campgrounds are numbered and have their own names. Think there are 80 sites in total. They have outhouses for toilets. Some sites have water fountains," reports Sammii D. about camping at Yellowwood State Forest.
Clean facilities: Charles C. Deam Wilderness maintains adequate facilities despite being a more remote option. "I had the awesome experience to hammock camp on the Patton cave trail, along the creek that winds the length of that trail. The cave is amazing, and if you're interested in backwoods camping, there are an abundance of spaces to do so. I packed in at the trailhead by a horse camp, so there was a bathroom before and after the trip," shares Sarah R.
Uncrowded experience: Many sites near Poland offer quieter alternatives to busier parks. "This state forest campground does not accept reservations. It is first come, first served. The only time we have ever seen the campground busy is over big holiday weekends like Labor Day, Memorial Day, and 4th of July. Otherwise use is light. We have several times been one of two or three campers in the loop," explains Daisy C. about Yellowwood State Forest camping.
What you should know
Seasonal weather considerations: Prepare for variable conditions. "We took our van and stayed at Turkey Run for a three night weekend. We were in a wooded section and it was pretty private however our site was pretty sloped. The campground is notorious for flooding in heavy rains. We have had as much as 4 in of water draining through our campsite," warns Audrey M.
Limited hookup availability: Water access varies by location. "The campground has 5 hiking trails ranging from easy to rugged and access to the Tecumesh Trail(43 miles) originally proposed to span from Florida to Canada. 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!" advises Stephen & Theresa B.
Wildlife awareness: Blackwell Campground in Hoosier National Forest requires proper food storage. "Screech owls and active birds made it an exciting evening," reports Josie W., while another camper notes, "Watch out for the raccoons. Those guys are not afraid of anything."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: Families benefit from campgrounds with facilities. "We stayed at site #35. It is in a very quiet, off the main road, in a circle, in full shade. It's is very close to the restroom but a distance from the camp store and dumpster. The site was clean and well equipped with a fire ring and picnic table. The campground is family friendly and was quiet at night," recommends Michelle M. about Turkey Run State Park.
Plan around peak times: Avoid crowds by camping mid-week. "In order to avoid crowds on the trails, we got there Thursday night so we could hike Friday morning / early afternoon. Saturday we rented a canoe from a canoe place right down the road from the campground," suggests Samantha S.
Consider water activities: Turkey Run Canoe & Camping offers additional recreation options. "Site 91 was tucked away in a more forested area away from RVs. Did a nice kayaking loop using their service. Had everything you needed, very chill experience. Will return fsho," says Rowan G.
Tips from RVers
Check site levels: Many campgrounds near Poland have uneven terrain. "The sites are difficult to get into and although they allow one car on the site there is barely room for that one car. 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," cautions Scott B.
Utility access considerations: Water availability varies across locations. "There is portable water at the entrance but the road coming and going to the campsite is only wide enough for one rig and you will block traffic while you are filling up," warns a reviewer about Turkey Run Canoe & Camping.
Size restrictions: Many horse-friendly campgrounds accommodate larger rigs but have limitations. "There are very few 50 amp spots, so we were in a 30 amp spot. The camp host was nice and helpful. There's lots of shade trees and the area is lush and green," notes Sheila B.
