Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area provides primitive campsites for horseback riders near Somerset, Indiana. The horse-friendly campsites cost $13 per night and remain available on a first-come basis, with space typically available even during summer weekends. Trail systems connect through wooded areas where visitors can observe wildlife and seasonal foliage changes throughout the year. The recreation area offers access to both bridle trails for horses and hiking paths for campers wanting to explore on foot.
What to do
Trail Riding: Horseback riders can access multiple trails from the Salamonie River State Forest campground. According to Whitley K., "Even the trails we frequent always seem new because each season offers a different kind of beauty."
Hike to Waterfalls: The Three Falls Trail offers a short but scenic route. Caitlin W. notes, "This is one of my first trails I went on that started my love for hiking. It's so short and simple but we loved it."
Fishing: The lake provides good fishing opportunities throughout the warmer months. Pine Lake Fishing & Camping Resort offers an alternative fishing location, though as Debbie S. mentions, "The lake is fabulous, but there didn't seem to be too many fish available for catching!"
Visit the Bison Enclosure: At Ouabache State Park Campground, campers can view bison in a natural setting. "The kids loved the Bison," reports Brad H., who found it a "great family spot" with "plenty of activities for families."
What campers like
Lakefront Views: At Lost Bridge West, certain sites offer excellent water views. Kim K. describes "gorgeous lake sunrise/sunsets. Plenty of eagle sightings! Lots of deer. Leaves are beautiful in fall."
Clean Facilities: The restrooms at Salamonie Lake receive positive feedback. Cynthia K. reports, "They also have the nicest pit toilets I've ever seen ANYWHERE! They didn't even smell."
Wildlife Viewing: The area around Somerset provides opportunities to spot various wildlife. Burns G. noted at Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area, "The beach was clean and fun. Not very busy when we were there, which was nice."
Secluded Atmosphere: Many equestrian campers appreciate the privacy at Salamonie River State Forest. Amber P. describes it as "cheap, $13 self pay. No electric or showers but do have bathroom. Very secluded luv it here."
What you should know
Limited Amenities: Horse campgrounds near Somerset, Indiana typically offer basic facilities. Fern B. notes about Salamonie River State Forest: "Firewood only available Mon - Friday 8-3."
Site Variations: At Lost Bridge State Rec Area Salamonie Lake, site quality varies considerably. Cynthia K. observes, "Some sites are very close together, while some offer a little more room. Sites 221-243, 202-204 offer lake views."
Weather Considerations: Seasonal flooding can affect campsite availability. Shasta K. reported, "A lot of the campsites were closed due to flooding but we managed to have a site that was untouched."
Bring Portable Containment: No horse corrals are provided at the equestrian campsites, so riders must bring tie-out equipment or portable containment systems for their horses.
Tips for camping with families
Water Activities: The beach area provides safe swimming for children. Randy R. notes, "They have a awesome Mariana ppl are friendly clean showers bathrooms access to lake."
Playgrounds: Multiple playground areas are available for children. Kim K. mentions "beach, playgrounds, 15 miles of hiking/walking" among the amenities at Lost Bridge West.
Educational Opportunities: Ouabache State Park offers ranger programs and educational exhibits. Emily P. reports, "The bison exhibit and ranger programs are great too."
Buddy Sites: For families camping together, specific sites are designed to share common areas. J C. recommends "Site 191 and 196 share grassy areas" for groups wanting to camp near each other.
Tips from RVers
Water Fill Station: At Salamonie Lake, RVers should plan ahead for water. Cynthia K. advises, "Fill up on water at the water filling station before going to your site."
Slope Issues: Some RV sites have uneven terrain. Burns G. shares their experience: "The campsite did have a bigger than expected slope, but nothing horrible. Most of the campsites were in need of a fresh layer of gravel for their parking pads."
Limited Hookups: Full hookups are not available at most area campgrounds. Steve C. noted about Ouabache State Park Campground, "Only draw back is no water and sewer hook up at the campsite."
