Equestrian camping near Unionville, Indiana offers access to numerous forested trails within the Hoosier National Forest region. The area sits within the hills of south-central Indiana, with terrain ranging from flat meadows to wooded ridges with elevation changes of 200-400 feet. Most campgrounds in this region remain open from April through October, with scattered sites available year-round for visitors seeking horse-friendly accommodations.
What to Do
Trail riding in Yellowwood State Forest: Access over 18 miles of multi-use trails through dense forest with varied terrain. "Yellowwood State Forest is a great area for camping, hiking, fishing, kayaking, etc. It's just a couple minutes drive from the more popular Brown County State Park," notes Dave E. at Yellowwood State Forest.
Boat rentals on Yellowwood Lake: Rent rowboats for $5-8 per hour from the forest office for fishing or relaxation. "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," shares Margo B.
Cave exploration at Spring Mill: Explore underground passages and boat tours through the cave system. "There is a cave tour also on offer in which you ride thru the cave system in a boat. Yes there are even lifevests for customers to wear!" reports Rachel W. from Spring Mill State Park Campground.
Geode hunting along creek beds: Search for mineral-filled rocks in the creek sandbars within the wilderness area. "I walked the creek for hours just looking at all the rocks on the sandbars. I have never encountered so many geodes in my life. Truly magnificent to encounter," shares Sarah R. at Charles C. Deam Wilderness.
What Campers Like
Privacy in dispersed camping sites: Find isolated tent spots along Berry Ridge Road with dedicated fire rings. "Multiple campsites in the area, I've stayed at two both of which were away from others, clean, fairly flat and had plenty of dead wood around to burn," reports Jeremy F. from Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping.
Clean facilities at Blackwell: Appreciate well-maintained vault toilets and trash services despite the remote location. "Open areas with pit toilets and water available. Shade and sunny locations. Pick a spot and set up with hammock-large rvs spots. No fee, no reservations, no problems," notes Betsy W.
Peaceful atmosphere throughout weekdays: Experience quiet camping with minimal crowds Monday through Thursday at most sites. "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," says Daisy C. about Yellowwood State Forest.
Access to Pioneer Village: Explore historical buildings and demonstrations at Spring Mill. "There is even an amazing pioneer village to explore where an original corn mill stands and you can buy freshly ground corn mill!" shares Rachel W.
What You Should Know
Limited water access in wilderness areas: Bring sufficient water supplies when backpacking in remote areas. "Heads up! Refill your water when you come across it; the lake is harder to get to than you think. I would also bring bug spray and check for ticks!" advises Jessica T. from Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest.
Seasonal road conditions: Heavy rains can affect gravel road access to several campgrounds. "The road leading to the park crosses a creek multiple times, and in rainy weather there may be water over the road," several visitors report.
First-come, first-served policies: Many sites cannot be reserved in advance, requiring early arrival. "Yellowwood state forest campground does not accept reservations. It is first come, first served. Drive up, select your site, and then go to the park office to pay using a self-pay envelope," explains Daisy C.
Tick and mosquito preparation: Insect activity increases after rainy periods throughout summer months. "The only negative was that we came after a lot of rain. So everything is permanently wet and mosquitos/ticks abounded," warns Sarah R.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for natural water features: Creeks provide safe play areas for children at certain campgrounds. "Very beautiful yet primitive campground. All the campgrounds are numbered and have their own names. There is a picnicking area for day use only right off the water which is beautiful," suggests Sammii D.
Choose sites near amenities: Select camping spots with proximity to toilets and water sources. "Our campsite wasn't far from the bathrooms and showers house which were pretty clean. We were near water as well," shares Lauren E. from Spring Mill State Park.
Pack for varied weather conditions: Southern Indiana experiences significant temperature changes between day and night. "Late fall, winter, and early spring when the nights are a little chilly, you may have the whole place to yourself," notes Dave E.
Seek educational opportunities: Take advantage of ranger programs and demonstrations. "They had a Smokey the Bear program for the kids and some really fun activities at the nature center while we were there," explains Jessie W.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Choose designated horse camping areas for more spacious accommodations. "Quiet with sparse campers. People who were there were nice and we felt safe. Free. Easy to find but slow going w rig on winding narrow roads," advises Cj H. from Horse Camp Rd Dispersed.
Level site considerations: Many wilderness sites require additional equipment for proper leveling. "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," notes Stephen & Theresa B.
Solar power opportunities: Open field layouts at horse camps provide excellent solar charging capabilities. "If you're a solar person, this is your spot! It's a giant open field with vault toilets," advises Juniper L.
Water and waste management: Plan for limited hookups at most equestrian sites. "No water hook ups had to drive to Hardin 3 miles over and pay $5 for their shower and water for our horses," reports Cj H.
Legend
