Best Equestrian Camping near Columbia City, IN

Horse camping options near Columbia City, Indiana are limited, with none of the established campgrounds in the area offering dedicated equestrian facilities. State parks in northeastern Indiana, including Chain O' Lakes State Park and Pokagon State Park, allow camping with various accommodations including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins, but lack specific horse amenities such as corrals or dedicated equestrian campsites. The JSON data indicates no horse corrals are available at any of the listed campgrounds. Campground data and reviews near Columbia City, Indiana is regularly updated on The Dyrt.

Trail riding opportunities exist within the broader region, though riders must arrange their own horse containment solutions when staying overnight. Chain O' Lakes State Park, located near Albion about 20 miles from Columbia City, features several interconnected lakes and extensive trail systems, though these are not specifically designated as bridle trails. Salamonie River State Forest provides primitive camping opportunities with basic amenities including drinking water, electric hookups, fire rings, and picnic tables. Visitors with horses need to verify current horse policies directly with park offices, as specific equestrian rules may change seasonally.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Columbia City, Indiana (7)

    1. Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground

    52 Reviews
    Albion, IN
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (260) 636-2654

    $12 - $90 / night

    "Wooded, grassy, all conveniences, friendly, huge playground for kids yet it offers peaceful enjoymentl so what more can you ask for while camping🐟🤩 Close to small town, Albion with a great brew pub,"

    "Met up with 18 other skoolies our first Indiana meet. Met great people had a fantastic time. Great park kids swam, showers are clean. Electric at sites but water isn’t but very close by."

    2. Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area Campgrounds — Salamonie Lake

    11 Reviews
    Andrews, IN
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (260) 468-2125

    $12 - $32 / night

    "We camped in a tent had a fire went hiking found little waterfalls and there is another part that allows horses!!"

    "This is one of the best parks we have been to in Indiana. We Volunteer all over our the USA at State Parks and National Forest. So we know what to look for."

    3. Pokagon State Park Campground

    48 Reviews
    Angola, IN
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (260) 833-2012

    $19 - $480 / night

    "Sites are in a well wooded area situated on 5 different loops (1 non-electric, 4 electric)."

    "This site was fairly level but very close to other sites…wouldn’t recommend it."

    4. Kosciusko County Fairgrounds

    1 Review
    Warsaw, IN
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (574) 269-1823

    $5 - $10 / night

    5. Salamonie River State Forest

    4 Reviews
    Lagro, IN
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 246-5421

    $13 - $15 / night

    "As far as Indiana parks goes, this is a hidden gem. We have camped here many times. Even the trails we frequent always seem new because each season offers a different kind of beauty."

    6. Lost Bridge West

    4 Reviews
    Andrews, IN
    28 miles
    Website

    "If you can get a lake view site enjoy. Some spot are far away from the shower houses but you can drive to them. Nice marina with a great store and boat rentals"

    "Nice level lots, beach, playgrounds, 15 miles of hiking/walking. Gorgeous lake sunrise/sunsets. Lots of eagle sightings! Plenty of deer. Leaves are beautiful in fall"

    7. Ouabache State Park Campground

    12 Reviews
    Bluffton, IN
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (260) 824-0926

    $20 - $30 / night

    "The paved bike trail in the park starts near the campground, and connects with a bike trail along the Wabash River that goes into nearby Bluffton, and is an easy ride. "

    "Plenty of trails to hike and a nice little lake to enjoy. Will definitely come back here"

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Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Columbia City, IN

1 Photos of 7 Columbia City Campgrounds


Equestrian Camping Reviews near Columbia City, IN

132 Reviews of 7 Columbia City Campgrounds


  • Deb F.
    Jul. 5, 2018

    Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground

    Much to do if desired, fishing, boating, swimming, hiking much more!❣️

    Wooded, grassy, all conveniences, friendly, huge playground for kids yet it offers peaceful enjoymentl so what more can you ask for while camping🐟🤩 Close to small town, Albion with a great brew pub, scenically Historic Courthouse and little shops one small grocery also straight due South appx 15mi is another Historic Courthouse in Columbia City offering a bit more retail. As mentioned, boat rentals & the fishing is very rewarding with great tasting panfish and an inside fish cleaning station of clean & no bugs convenience. Sandy beach swimming with hot showers and snack shack. Bird watching is a must for me giving me a real sense of peace and fulfillment! Happy travels and enjoy our green country of lakes and farms in NE Indiana 💞

  • Whitley K.
    Mar. 29, 2022

    Pokagon State Park Campground

    Visit in Winter for Tobagganing

    Equestrian trails and campgrounds are popular here. Horse rides sold on site. There is a nice hotel that sometimes hosts events actually located in the park. Come tobagginging and ice fishing in the winter and then pamper yourself in the hotel, or visit in the summer and have a beach day or easy hike with the family. Great spot for Pokémon Go because of the available cell service.

  • D
    Jul. 5, 2016

    Pokagon State Park Campground

    Pokagon State Park

    Pokagon State Park has an excellent state park campground. Sites are in a well wooded area situated on 5 different loops (1 non-electric, 4 electric). Many sites are flat (good for tent camping) while others are slightly rolling hills (helps breakup the sites a bit). There is a lot to do in the park including many trails, horse riding (horse stable on site), and lake swimming on a nicely improved beach. Only cons are no full hook up and the fire rings/grills could be improved.

  • T S.
    Sep. 19, 2021

    Pokagon State Park Campground

    Extensive Campground

    This is an extremely large campground. About seventy-five percent of the sites are electric. We stayed in Site 255, which was not electric (booked last minute). This site was fairly level but very close to other sites…wouldn’t recommend it. However, Site 269 (next to Site 277) afforded great privacy and was large; among the non-electric sites this was the best I saw. I did not survey the electric sites, but I’m sure the site matters a lot. Non-electric sites are $20.00, plus a $9.00 park entrance fee.

    There are numerous walking trails, along with horse and bike trails. Additionally, there are boat rentals, horseback rides, pony rentals, swimming, nature center, and a restaurant at the inn.

    This is a family oriented park. Extended family groupings are very common. Nevertheless, people and their children are well behaved.

    I would recommend this campground for two days or more. A one day stay will mean you probably won’t see much of this wonderful park. The only reason I gave it a four was that even in mid-September it was packed.

  • N
    Aug. 2, 2019

    Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground

    Great time with skoolies

    Met up with 18 other skoolies our first Indiana meet. Met great people had a fantastic time. Great park kids swam, showers are clean. Electric at sites but water isn’t but very close by.

  • R
    Jul. 19, 2023

    Ouabache State Park Campground

    Camp sites are tiny

    Camp sites are tiny. We had site 88 and it was supposed to be full shade. It was full sun and they have it set up so the camp side of the trailer faces the road. The fire pit is also three feet from the road. Who wants to have a fire next to the road?

  • Eric L.
    Sep. 5, 2021

    Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground

    Labor Day at Chain

    We stayed at site #99 which is fairly easy to find and somewhat secluded from the main camper section of the campground. The site and neighboring sites are non-electric which makes you have to be creative if you need an air mattress. The site is partial sun midafternoon. The campground can get busy and loud but for the most part everyone was was respectful of others.

    Chain is perfect for kayaking and canoeing with 9 connected lakes and 11 total. A couple lakes are perfect for boat fishing as long as you have an electric motor only. Overall, in my opinion, this is one of the more underrated state parks in Indiana. Worth the trip up north away from the more popular parks in the southern part of the state.

  • Cynthia K.
    Jul. 21, 2023

    Pokagon State Park Campground

    Old campground

       This state park was established in 1925, so almost 100 years old. The campground must be the original layout. There's a maze like quality to it. The roads are narrow & you may be driving off the road for a big rig. 

       Some sites are level, some aren't. Some can accommodate larger rigs, most can't. Check the site descriptions carefully & to be doubly sure, call the office & ask.

       There's water stations that look very old. They have wooden, shingled roofs. There's 2 dump stations located in loops 3 & 4. IN THE CAMPGROUND! NEXT TO CAMPSITES!!!!

     There's 5 loops to the main campground.

     100 loop is small & closer to the lake than the other loops. It's the loop we chose this time.

        The sites are on the small side. There's 3 campsites that are close to the lake. 115, which is a larger site. 117 & 119 which have clear views of the lake. 117 is more a tent or popup site & is small. 119 is the best of the bunch. A large pad & a large site. There's no privacy bushes. These sites have a view of the lake with trees & brush & are on a ridge overlooking the lake. They aren't ON the lake. 

    On either side of 117 & 119 are 2 trails that lead to the lake. There's benches & a dock to tie up your boat. 

       The rest of the sites are a mixed bag. Some are level, some have an incline. If you have a big rig, be aware that the road to the 100 campsites branches into one way. Leading into the campsites, the road is narrow & has a ravine on one side!

        200 Loop is non electric

        300 Loop is the biggest loop & seems like the best bet for larger rigs. As stated above, some sites are better than others. There's a uniformity here that's missing from the other loops.

      Stay away from sites 393& 395!!! These sites are literally right on top of the dump station! As always watch for pit toilets near the sites. 

       400 loop is a smaller loop next to the 200 loop. There's only one shower house for both loops. Avoid site 444 & probably site 454. These sites are VERY close to the dump station. 

      500 loop is also smaller& has some nice sites tucked by themselves in the trees. There seems to be more privacy brush on this loop with SOME sites.

       512 is close to the shower house. 511 & 513 were somewhat secluded.

        If you have a boat you want to tie up at the dock, go for the 100 loop. If you can't get it, be aware there's no parking near the trails to the lake. You can park by the bathhouse & walk. 

       The shower & restrooms are atrocious!!! Worst looking buildings since Spring Mill SP! Dirty & need an entire overhaul. In fact, raze the buildings & build new ones! They're "cleaned" once a day. Suuuuuure they are. There was actual poop on the door of one of the women's toilet stalls the whole time I was there. Mold & spiders& dirt in the corners. Looks like the last upgrade was in the 50s.


Guide to Columbia City

Horse camping in Indiana offers a unique opportunity to explore the great outdoors while enjoying the company of your equine friends. With a variety of campgrounds catering to horse enthusiasts, you'll find plenty of amenities and activities to enhance your experience.

Equestrian campgrounds include Lost Bridge State Recreation Area

  • At Lost Bridge State Recreation Area, visitors can enjoy spacious sites and access to scenic trails perfect for horseback riding.
  • The campground features well-maintained facilities, including restrooms and picnic areas, making it a comfortable spot for horse campers.
  • With its beautiful lake views and ample wildlife, this area is ideal for those looking to combine horse camping with nature exploration.

Campers appreciate these amenities for horses at Ouabache State Park Campground

  • Ouabache State Park Campground offers electric hookups and reservable sites, ensuring a convenient stay for horse campers.
  • The park includes trails specifically designed for horseback riding, allowing for a seamless outdoor adventure.
  • Campers can enjoy the park's natural beauty while having access to essential amenities like drinking water and sanitary facilities.

Tips for equestrian camping near Columbia City, Indiana

  • When visiting Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground, be prepared for a more primitive camping experience, which can be perfect for those seeking solitude with their horses.
  • Make sure to check the availability of sites and amenities, as some campgrounds may have limited services during certain seasons.
  • Always bring enough supplies for your horse, including food and water, as some campgrounds may not have markets nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Columbia City, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Columbia City, IN is Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 52 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Columbia City, IN?

TheDyrt.com has all 7 equestrian camping locations near Columbia City, IN, with real photos and reviews from campers.