Equestrian campers access multiple trail networks at designated horse facilities throughout northeastern Kansas. The region features mixed deciduous forests with elevation changes providing varied trail difficulty across multiple state parks. Bridle paths connect directly to campgrounds at several locations, allowing immediate trail access without additional trailering between rides.
What to do
Trail riding at Perry State Park: Located approximately 40 miles southwest of Atchison, this park offers extensive bridle trails through wooded terrain. According to rider Roger W., "The setting: Thick deciduous forest" makes it ideal for summer rides with natural shade. The campground maintains dedicated equestrian facilities throughout the year.
Fishing at Smithville Lake: Crow's Creek Campground provides shoreline access for anglers at multiple points. Camper Travis C. reports "plenty of firewood to forage out of the timber line. They even sell it and ice at the front entrance." Fishing spots are within walking distance of most campsites.
Wildlife observation at Honey Creek: Honey Creek Conservation Area offers free primitive camping with opportunities for birding and wildlife spotting. One visitor noted, "This is a beautiful wooded conservation area" with "access to the river right on the site." The conservation area maintains several designated camping areas with different levels of seclusion.
What campers like
Level camping sites: Smiths Fork Recreation Area receives consistent praise for site quality. Camper Don M. notes it "offers Electric (30 & 50 amp), Water (2) and Sewer at every campsite. At just $30 per day it is a steal!" The campground operates seasonally from April 15 to October 15.
Clean facilities: Weston Bend State Park Campground maintains exceptionally well-kept bathrooms and showers. Visitor Lauri J. confirms "These are the cleanest bathrooms and facilities that I have been to I think Mabye ever. The camp hosts were super nice stop by to make sure that I was all set up."
Privacy options: Campers appreciate the varied site layouts at several campgrounds. At Weston Bend, Roger W. specifically recommends "#26 is the most private" while Barbie G. agrees that "site 26 is relatively isolated. It's big too." Most campgrounds offer a mix of exposed and secluded sites.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Many campgrounds in the region have limited operations outside summer months. At Crow's Creek, Bridget U. cautions "they shut off water with no notice and halfway through our stay. Ended up leaving early since we had no water and also no sewer at site."
Reservation systems: Banner Creek and other facilities fill quickly during peak season. Camper terri C. advises "Campsites have plenty of space between sites, beautiful views and camp hosts were very helpful. Mostly pull through sites."
Trail conditions: Horse trails can become difficult after rainfall. At Rockhaven Equestrian Campground, Juliana H. notes the site has "plenty of areas to tie off and/or enclose horses" with "access to horse-friendly and dog-friendly trails right in the campground!"
Weekend crowds: State parks experience significant visitation increases Friday through Sunday. Robin R. observes at Crow's Creek that "We have stayed in this campground too many times to count. We love it when it is still kind of off season like Easter weekend and after labor day."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Camp Branch Campground features kid-friendly amenities. Nikki S. reports "We reserved 3 sites for a family camping trip... We had a short walk to the lake for fishing, and the loop had a restroom. We were able to enter the swim beach without having to pay extra."
Safety considerations: Many campgrounds enforce quiet hours and have regular ranger patrols. Caitlin R. at Crow's Creek mentioned "The rules are super strict when it comes to day passes, boat passes, and having your pass visible in a window."
Educational opportunities: Several horse campgrounds near Atchison, Kansas offer junior ranger programs during summer months. Charlotte B. at Camp Branch noted "I camp with kids from infant through 18 and hot showers and decent bathrooms are a must for us."
Activity options: Horseback riding facilities accommodate non-riding family members with alternative recreation. At Perry State Park, Brandon B. shares "We camped in the Hobie Cove campground... We did have a good time though exploring the area."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites remain limited at many equestrian campgrounds near Atchison. At Smiths Fork Recreation Area, Robin R. confirms it is "full hook up. They have both 30 and 50 amp. Close to 169 hwy. Perfect for families with young children."
Levelness challenges: Some campgrounds require significant leveling equipment. Caitlin R. notes "our spot was 13" unlevel. Luckily we had several blocks of wood to help level our camp out." Bringing leveling blocks is recommended at most parks.
Seasonal access: Fall and spring visits may encounter limited services. At Crow's Creek, Julie B. suggests "the full hookup sites don't have a view of the lake. This is why we chose an electric only site and used a spigot in the campsite to fill our tank."
