Equestrian camping opportunities abound in the forested hills surrounding Tell City, Indiana. The region sits at elevations ranging from 380-750 feet, creating rolling terrain ideal for horseback riding adventures. Several dedicated horse campgrounds near Tell City feature facilities designed specifically for equestrians, with seasonal temperature fluctuations from summer highs around 90°F to winter lows near 20°F affecting camping conditions.
What to do
Trail riding through Hoosier National Forest: The extensive trail network from Tipsaw Lake Recreation Area offers varied terrain for riders. "The Tipsaw Lake Trail is 5.9 miles of small hilled, technical single track trail that gives you a chance to enjoy the woods (and ticks). The trail is not marked very well around the boat ramp and beach area so it may take some searching to find it if you're not familiar," notes reviewer Shelly S.
Fishing in secluded lakes: Both Indian and Celina Lakes in the North Face Loop Campground area allow electric motors only. "There are two lakes, Indian and Celina, in the immediate area, electric motors only. Two Rivers Trail is a nice 15ish mile technical trail that goes around both lakes, with dispersed camping $5 a night, 300 ft off the trail and your good," writes Shelly S.
Visit the nature center and historical sites: O'Bannon Woods State Park offers educational opportunities. "Great nature center w/ ranger tours. Several hiking trails w/ various difficulties. Lots of caving activity in area," reports Donald S., while another camper mentions "the pioneer village" as a point of interest for visitors.
What campers like
Privacy and natural settings: The horse campgrounds provide varying levels of seclusion. At Youngs Creek Horse Camp, "Sites are large, and there are fire rings available. There are vault toilets and a fresh water pump not far from them. The only time this camp is full is when a trail ride is going on, then it fills up fast," according to Susan A.
Well-maintained facilities: Many equestrian campers appreciate the clean amenities. "Campsites have fire rings and picnic tables. There is a trail that loops back to the site for easy hiking access," notes David M. about Youngs Creek. Another camper adds, "It sports a good-sized pavilion and well-maintained his and hers vault toilets."
Diverse camping options: The region accommodates different camping preferences. At Otter Creek Park Campground, "There is an RV area and a loop for tent camping, the sites are fairly close together with some only having as little as a few saplings or briars between sites," according to Ella L., who appreciates the proximity to Louisville.
What you should know
Cash is required at most sites: Prepare accordingly as card payments aren't accepted. At North Face Loop, one reviewer notes: "You need cash by the way, no card machines here. $5 and $1 bills will do you."
Bug protection is essential: Ticks are prevalent throughout the region. "The tick's here seem like the Infantry, swarming the objective from all side's. Bring your bug stuff!" warns one experienced camper about Hoosier National Forest. Another visitor at Cecilia Campgrounds mentions bringing bug spray as essential gear.
Water availability varies: Not all equestrian campgrounds offer convenient water access. "Site accommodates both horse, drive in and walk-in camping. There's a privy and water on site," reports David M. about Youngs Creek Horse Camp, while other sites may require bringing your own water supply.
Tips for camping with families
Look for accessible amenities: Certain areas cater better to families with children. "The beach has a play area for children right on the beach which makes it ideal for parents," notes a reviewer about Tipsaw Lake. Another mentions that "O'Bannon woods has just about everything in one little nook, from fishing swimming and kayaking on blue River, a beach at the park."
Choose sites near playgrounds: For convenience with kids, location matters. "We stayed in 220. It was nice to be right by the playground and bathrooms (which is what we wanted). Some spots near the back would be nice and secluded like the 180s and 190s and they're still not too far from the bathrooms and playground," suggests Kelsey R.
Consider seasonal events: Some campgrounds host family activities during specific times. At Otter Creek Park, "We go every fall with our entire family to enjoy the Halloween activities. The campers all go all out and let the kids trick or treat. There is even a group who does a haunted house and it is so fun!" shares Amber S.
Tips from RVers
Plan for electrical needs: Hookup options vary across horse campgrounds near Tell City. At Come Again Horse Camp, thirty-amp and fifty-amp electrical hookups are available for larger rigs, while Youngs Creek offers more primitive experiences with no hookups.
Check site dimensions before booking: Not all pads are equally sized or leveled. "Not all pads are level or very wide. Some of the tent sites are a challenge to get to and use," notes Shelly S. about O'Bannon Woods, indicating this applies to RV sites as well.
Bring supplemental water: Even with hookups, water access can be inconvenient. "There was no water at the site though. Throughout the campground are potable water spigots that you can hook up to and add water to your tank," reports Derek J., highlighting the need to plan for water management.
