Best Equestrian Camping near Shelbyville, IN

Horsemen's Campground in Brown County State Park features 12 primitive campsites with electric hookups and water, specifically designed for trail riders with horses. The campground includes areas for tethering horses at each site, though some tie-up areas remain muddy even in drier periods. All sites have electrical service with both 30-amp and 50-amp connections available. The campground is notorious for flooding during heavy rains, with up to 4 inches of water draining through campsites during storms. Shower facilities are clean but lack proper ventilation, resulting in consistently wet floors. Many wooden fences, tie posts, and picnic tables throughout the equestrian camping area show signs of deterioration and need repair.

Located within Indiana's largest state park, the campground provides direct access to miles of scenic horse trails winding through Brown County's famous rolling hills and forests. The park's road crosses a creek multiple times, potentially causing water hazards during rainy weather for vehicles with horse trailers. Horse amenities include wooden tie racks at campsites, though the quality varies significantly between sites. Shaded campsites are limited, with many exposed to full sun, making summer camping potentially uncomfortable. The park office offers various services for equestrians, with the surrounding Nashville area providing additional resources. Campers should reserve well in advance, especially during fall foliage season when the park's trails showcase spectacular autumn colors throughout the hills and valleys.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Shelbyville, Indiana (15)

    1. Johnson County Park

    8 Reviews
    Nineveh, IN
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 526-6809

    "The park is 622 acres that include two campgrounds, approximately 5 miles of hiking trails, equestrian school, 18 hole disc golf course, shelter houses, amphitheater, lakes, fishing and more."

    "We have camped here twice, we needed to be as close to Trafalgar Indiana as possible, not many camping options in the local area."

    2. Summit Lake State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Mooreland, IN
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (765) 766-5873

    $20 - $25 / night

    "Very large camping spots with huge lawns away from lake; This spot was #53. lakeside camping a little more packed in but more shade. Reserve early!"

    "Many of the campsites are right near the water with lake view. Fishing is fun too with a dock within short walking distance of most campsites."

    3. Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping

    17 Reviews
    Freetown, IN
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 275-5987

    "If you are into boondocking at all defiantly check out berry ridge it’s just south of brown county Indiana beautiful country mostly hills tons of camp spots sometimes half mile or more apart haven’t seen"

    "Trails, plenty of dry wood, away from the roads, no running water or electricity, decent amount of spaces we came in at night and counted about 9 very far spread out camp sights."

    4. Versailles State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Versailles, IN
    44 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 689-6424

    $23 - $25 / night

    "This is a great southern Indiana State Park with easy access from US 50."

    "Older Indiana State Park just West of Indiana / Ohio state line South of IH-74. Roads tight and only 1 dump station for 70+ sites (most site are water electric only)"

    5. Yellowwood State Forest

    15 Reviews
    Unionville, IN
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 988-7945

    $225 / night

    "Drive up, select your site, and then go to the park office to pay using a self-pay envelope. Bring exact change(cash). Current prices are listed on the Indiana DNR website."

    "Peaceful little place but unfortunately it rained but we made the best of it, there’s some secluded spots where you can stay away from others or stay in the more general areas, nice lake to fish and we"

    6. Westwood Park

    5 Reviews
    New Castle, IN
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (765) 987-1232

    "It’s a small campground with around 33-38 camp sites and it’s first come first serve. No reservations. The lake is nice. Lots of small bass. If you have a boat, trolling motors only."

    "The lake doesn't allow gas motors so its one of the clearest lakes in central Indiana"

    7. Whitewater Memorial State Park Campground

    17 Reviews
    Liberty, IN
    44 miles
    Website
    +1 (765) 458-5565

    $16 - $23 / night

    "Whitewater Memorial State Park is located close to Liberty Indiana and is our favorite between the two major parks on Brookville Lake. It has water access to both Brookville and Whitewater lakes."

    "Conveniently located just South of Liberty, Indiana. Access to the Brookville Lake. Playground available. Beach area available. Easy to reserve through the In.gov website. Many things to do."

    8. Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    22 Reviews
    Heltonville, IN
    49 miles
    +1 (812) 275-5987

    "We arrived near dusk on a Friday. The entrance is clearly marked and road is gravel but well maintained. The site is open space with soft, well maintained grass and no muddy areas."

    "Close to town but also right off some amazing trails! Sometimes the horse trailers get loud with generators but it is a horse camp ground!"

    9. Pine Lake Fishing & Camping Resort

    2 Reviews
    Pendleton, IN
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (765) 778-2697

    "This was really convenient and close to Indy, where we took the grandkids to the children’s museum. The lake is fabulous, but there didn’t seem to be too many fish available for catching!!"

    10. Horsemen's Campground — Brown County State Park

    3 Reviews
    Nashville, IN
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 988-6406

    $15 - $22 / night

    "Brown County has always been the jewel of Indiana State Parks for Trail Riders. The campground is large, with spaces to accommodate larger rigs."

    "We often take our horses trail riding there for a week every couple of summers of just go down for weekend trips to go hiking."

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Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Shelbyville, IN

4 Photos of 15 Shelbyville Campgrounds


Equestrian Camping Reviews near Shelbyville, IN

147 Reviews of 15 Shelbyville Campgrounds


  • Stephen & Theresa B.
    Jun. 30, 2020

    Johnson County Park

    Johnson County Park is an interesting conglomeration of activity.

    Johnson County Park is an interesting conglomeration of activity. The park is 622 acres that include two campgrounds, approximately 5 miles of hiking trails, equestrian school, 18 hole disc golf course, shelter houses, amphitheater, lakes, fishing and more. The park is home to the Hoosier Horse Park with three arenas, 384 stalls and its own 70 site campground plus it is also home to the Antique Machinery Club, Columbus Model Railroad Club, Radio Controlled Flyer Club and Indiana Live Steamers. The RV campground consists of 58 sites with 30amp/50amp electric and water hook ups, level gravel pads(4 sites are paved) and a dump station. Other amenities include a restroom and shower facility, playground for children and community campfire ring. The campground is an easy detour off I-65, Exit#76, for the RVer looking for an overnight or two. Plenty of shopping and restaurants in the area; grocery, outlet mall, name brand dining. The campground is large rig friendly; family oriented and has a camp host on site for any assistance. Just to make you aware…the park is located in close proximity to an active reserve military base that from time to time has exercises with air traffic and the sounds of shells and artillery fire. The fee for camping is$25 per night with a limit of 14 nights. For reservations call 812-526-6809 or register at the park office. 39°22'48.7"N 86°02'33.4"W

  • Stephen & Theresa B.
    May. 3, 2021

    Yellowwood State Forest

    This is a real Hidden Gem

    Yellowwood State Forest, named for the environmentally unique Yellowwood tree, is 23, 326 acres located 7 miles West of the artist community of Nashville, Indiana. Nestled in the rolling hills of southern Indiana famous for it's fall leaf color displays and gorgeous vistas. Yellowwood offers 79 primitive class c sites in four campground areas adjacent to the 133 acre Yellowwood Lake; Red Pine, White-Oak Hickory, Redbud and Black Gum;$13 per night. There are several potable water stations and pit toilets throughout the campgrounds and one dump station located in Red Bud. The Red Bud area also has a small camp store(not open during our visit, so not sure of their offerings). We did note some ADA accessible sites. Horse camping is also available in 12 class c sites in the Horseman Camp with miles of horse trails. Several picnic areas and shelters in the area; one beautiful location overlooking the lake with stunning brown county stone fireplaces. 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! The park 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. The park office facility offers boat(lake is known for good fishing) and kayak rental, ice and firewood. If you need facilities to accommodate your larger rig or feel a need for more amenities; Brown County State Park is just a few miles to the East...but don't pass up planning at least a day trip to enjoy this incredibly beautiful State Forest property. 772 Yellowwood Lake Rd, Nashville, IN 47448 GPS- 39.183995,-86.337878

  • J
    Aug. 7, 2018

    Versailles State Park Campground

    Large campsites, pool ,lake activities, others

    Versailles State Park is the second largest state park in Indiana. Within the last year with the coordination of the Indiana Trail Riders Association, DNR and volunteers, primitive, overnight, horse camping was added to the park. Several more miles of horse trails were opened and a mountain bike trail section was also added to the park. Plans are in place for more mountain biking trails and a fourty-five site electric and water Horsemans camp, to be completed in phases. This is a very clean park, large pool, hiking and lake activities available. Bald eagles have been spotted in the park along with local wildlife. The local restaurants are family owned and offer large portions if casual dinning is in store, with homemade desserts.

  • Cynthia K.
    Jun. 27, 2024

    Yellowwood State Forest

    Just did a drive thru

     This is a State Forest campground near Nashville, Indiana. Primitive camping. Pit toilets only. This is by Yellowwood Lake, so boating & fishing opportunities. 

    All these sites are first come, first serve. No reservations. 

    There's a Forest Office with area information & a small display. 

    There's several trails of varying length. 

    Believe it or not- gold panning is a thing here! You need a permit.

    They rent boats at the Forest Office. Electric motor only.

     There's several camping loops. There's a horse camp also. 

    The boat ramp is near the horse camp loop.

     We didn't go down the Red Pine Loop, but did check out White Oak/Redbud& Black Gum.

     Hickory loop is right off the road & the sites are visible from the road. They looked nicely spaced.

    White oak loop had several nice sites. Redbud is close to a building they call a camp store. It may have been many years ago, but not open now.

     Several picnic spots by the lake. The best site in Redbud would be 39. Large site with some shade. I would also say 38, but site 37 is directly behind it. This is the camp host spot, so occupied. These sites are near the pit toilets.

    The best spot in Black Gum would be site 75. Large site at the end of the loop & right by the lake.

     If you go back to Hwy 46 where the road split on your way in, follow the sign to the dam. Just a large earthen dam, but there's trail heads here. There's the Scarce O' Fat Trail which has been mentioned on the Facebook Indiana Hiking page.

    $13 per night regular camping.$16 per night for horseman's.

  • Stephen & Theresa B.
    Apr. 11, 2019

    Versailles State Park Campground

    “One of Indiana's Finest”

    This is a great southern Indiana State Park with easy access from US 50. Plenty of sites to accommodate larger rigs with paved pads, picnic tables, fire rings, 30 amp, dump station and very clean restroom & shower facilities. The park offers great hiking trails, mountain bike trails, seasonal nature center, seasonal swimming pool, horse trails and 230 acre lake. Mapping Address: 1387 US 50 East, Versailles, IN 47042 | Phone: 812-689-6424 | Reservations: https://indianastateparks.reserveamerica.com/welcome.do

  • Noah Y.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 18, 2024

    Charles C. Deam Wilderness

    Great for casual/experienced camping and hiking

    A staple of our state here in Indiana. Unfortunately due to some storm damage, trails were rerouted or straight up inaccessible.

    Great places to find and set up camp. We even discovered a few extra hidden sites just by being forced off trails due to the damage.

    Every dispersed camper should add the hikes to the lake to their checklist.

  • Audrey M.
    Jul. 11, 2018

    Horsemen's Campground — Brown County State Park

    Horseman Camp Needs an Upgrade

    Brown County has always been the jewel of Indiana State Parks for Trail Riders. The campground is large, with spaces to accommodate larger rigs. Most of the sites also have electric hook-up, although water spigots are few and far between. Arrangements for the horses are Hit or Miss depending on what site you stay on. Some of the sites are well shaded, but others are out in the open in full sun. The shower house is in good condition, except that it has no ventilation, so the floors remain wet. The campground is notorious for flooding in heavy rains. We have had as much as 4 in of water draining through our campsite. Some of the tie up areas for the horses are muddy holes that never get enough sunlight to dry out completely. Also be aware that the road leading to the Horseman's camp crosses a creek several times, and in rainy weather there may be water over the road. The camping area for regular campers is beautiful and well maintained, but it seems that Park management is not interested in attracting horse campers. Many of the wooden fences in the camp, as well as tie posts and picnic tables are in poor repair.

  • Brandie B.
    May. 23, 2020

    Whitewater Memorial State Park Campground

    Awesome campground for Kayakers

    Whitewater Memorial State Park is located close to Liberty Indiana and is our favorite between the two major parks on Brookville Lake. It has water access to both Brookville and Whitewater lakes. The campground facilities are newly updated with two large shower/bath houses. A few of the campsites are buddy sites that allow you to camp with a friend and share the same area. Many fishermen and kayakers frequent the lake trails.

  • Emily H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 12, 2018

    Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    A field with pit toilets. Free but often loud generators from horse trailer

    No set camp spots but great to set up and have no light pollution! Close to town but also right off some amazing trails! Sometimes the horse trailers get loud with generators but it is a horse camp ground!


Guide to Shelbyville

Horse camping in Indiana offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and equestrian-friendly amenities, making it a great choice for riders and their horses.

Equestrian campers like these nearby activities

Tips for equestrian camping near Shelbyville, Indiana

  • When visiting Johnson County Park, be aware that while it offers a variety of activities, tent camping is no longer allowed, so plan accordingly if you're bringing horses.
  • At Versailles State Park Campground, ensure you choose a level site for your horse trailer, as some areas can be sloped, which may complicate setup.
  • The Brookville Lake - Mounds State Recreation Area is a great spot for horse camping, but be prepared for limited fishing access from the bank, as it can get crowded.

Most campgrounds have horse-focused amenities like water and electric hookups

  • Ransburg Scout Reservation offers electric hookups and drinking water, making it a convenient choice for horse campers looking for modern amenities.
  • At Pine Lake Fishing & Camping Resort, equestrian campers can enjoy a variety of accommodations, including cabins and yurts, alongside traditional camping options.
  • The Yellowwood State Forest provides a rustic experience with essential amenities like toilets and picnic tables, perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in nature while camping with their horses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Shelbyville, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Shelbyville, IN is Johnson County Park with a 3.4-star rating from 8 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 15 equestrian camping locations near Shelbyville, IN, with real photos and reviews from campers.