Equestrian camping near Waverly, Indiana offers direct access to extensive trail systems through the rolling hills of southern Indiana. Horsemen's facilities are scattered throughout several campgrounds in the area, with most located within a 30-minute drive of Waverly. The region's forests and lakes offer a mix of primitive and developed camping options, with trail conditions varying significantly after rainfall events.
What to do
Trail riding exploration: The Tecumseh Trail, accessible from Yellowwood State Forest, provides multiple access points for equestrians. "Yellowwood offers 79 primitive class c sites in four campground areas adjacent to the 133 acre Yellowwood Lake... Horse camping is also available in 12 class c sites in the Horseman Camp with miles of horse trails," notes Stephen & Theresa B.
Fishing opportunities: Monroe Lake borders several campgrounds and offers excellent fishing access. At Ransburg Scout Reservation, "they have canoeing, row boats, sailboats, motor boats, and skiing. Lots of fun activities to do, and great hiking trails," according to Margo B.
Hiking trail networks: The Charles C. Deam Wilderness provides excellent day hiking options with minimal crowds. "Once on trail I didn't see another soul past a couple hundred feet of the trail head and only heard a pair of hikers on the trail pass my camp site as I ate my breakfast the one morning," reports Darren L.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: At Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping, campers appreciate the isolation from other visitors. "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. Some sites, at least one, could fit a pretty good sized camper," writes Jeremy F.
Clean facilities: When facilities are available, campers consistently mention cleanliness. At Blackwell Campground, visitors note the well-maintained amenities: "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," reports Betsy W.
Water features: Lakes and streams provide water-based recreation opportunities. "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," says Margo B. of Yellowwood State Forest.
What you should know
Weather implications: Heavy rainfall affects trail conditions significantly. "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," explains Cynthia K.
Reservation policies: Many horse camping areas operate on first-come, first-served basis. For Johnson County Park, "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," shares Stephen & Theresa B.
Limited amenities: Expect minimal facilities at many equestrian camping locations. "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. Some sites, at least one, could fit a pretty good sized camper. This is pack in pack out, no amenities camping for free," notes Jeremy F.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with easy water access: For family activities, campgrounds near lakes provide recreational options. "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," describes Stephen & Theresa B.
Consider noise factors: Some camping areas experience periodic noise that may disturb light sleepers. "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," warns Stephen & Theresa B. about Johnson County Park.
Wildlife awareness: The area has diverse wildlife that can provide educational opportunities but requires proper precautions. "Solo camped here with my dogs. First time I've ever been camping but this spot was really cool. Clean. Secluded and peaceful, though every night at around 5pm I would hear rustling in the leaves, I assumed it was a pack of cayotes," relates Reuben R. at Berry Ridge Road.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require careful positioning due to uneven terrain. At Horsemen's Campground, "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," explains Audrey M.
Water access planning: Water availability varies significantly between campgrounds. "Great boondocking spot, plenty of flat land making leveling easy. Wide open so solar charging was easy. We were there for 7 days and while they have room for probably 50 or 60 rigs there was only 3 or 4 of us there most of the time," reports The Wandering Shores about Blackwell Campground.
Road condition awareness: Access roads to horse camping areas can be challenging. "The road leading to the Horseman's camp crosses a creek several times, and in rainy weather there may be water over the road," warns Audrey M. about Brown County State Park's facilities.
