Best Equestrian Camping near Hiawatha, KS

Indian Cave State Park offers equestrian camping areas within its 3,000-acre expanse along the Missouri River. The park provides dedicated horse camping sites with appropriate facilities for riders and their mounts. Located approximately 65 miles southeast of Hiawatha, the park features over 20 miles of trails that accommodate horseback riding. The trails wind through oak woodlands, offering varied terrain for riders of all experience levels. Park amenities include water hydrants, clean shower facilities, and both reserved and first-come campsites. The horse camping area remains separate from standard camping locations to maintain appropriate spacing for equestrian needs.

Trail access at Indian Cave provides riders with routes that showcase river views, wooded areas, and scenic overlooks. Multiple trails connect throughout the park, allowing for rides of varying lengths and difficulty. Water access points for horses are available along certain routes. The campground's location near the Missouri River creates unique riding opportunities through diverse ecological zones not typically found in Nebraska. Campers should bring their own water supplies for convenience, as hydrants are scattered throughout the grounds. The park maintains seasonal events that attract visitors, including spring expos and fall festivals. Winter trail access may be limited depending on weather conditions. Horseback riders often note the park's distinctive terrain that offers a different experience than typical Nebraska landscapes.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Hiawatha, Kansas (6)

    1. Hackberry Hollow Campground — Indian Cave State Park

    24 Reviews
    Shubert, NE
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (402) 883-2575

    $25 - $30 / night

    "There are plenty of camping sites around the park no matter your style, even spots for horses! I prefer the hike in spots myself."

    "This is a nice little area with some hiking and horse trails. There’s a trail that’s really steep but the view from the top of the river and the valley is worth it."

    2. Weston Bend State Park Campground

    34 Reviews
    Weston, MO
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (816) 640-5443

    $12 - $48 / night

    "The site is long but has a 1/4 moon turn so we had to pull back around to get better positioned on the pad so we could disconnect our 39’ 5th wheel and F450 for our 3-night stay."

    "attractions: hiking. biking. close to Kansas City (40 minutes) I would go camping here again."

    3. Banner Creek

    6 Reviews
    Holton, KS
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 364-4236

    "We had a spot right near the grassy area with the woods right behind us!! Fireflies at night wonderful!! Great water hook up and electric site! They even came back with ice for us twice!!!"

    "Very nice campground just west of Holton and about a 35 minute drive north of Topeka. Not many primitive campers there at the time but plenty of RV'ers."

    4. Honey Creek Conservation Area

    5 Reviews
    Amazonia, MO
    31 miles
    Website

    "It was a little close to the highway so got a little highway noise, but not bad. No trains😊

    Only one other camper so plenty of room.

    Pit toilet, no water."

    "We stayed at camp area 3 which is way more wooded and deep inside the conservation area with access to the river right on the site."

    5. Perry State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Meriden, KS
    49 miles
    Website

    "Nice state park on the lake can be crowded and a little crazy on weekends.  Like most state parks no sewer hookups but easy access to dump station"

    "Only complaint, cold shower in facility near marina. I would recommend a spot closer to marina if you're not In an RV. We were a rooftop tent and could heat distant trains all night."

    6. Happy Joy Acres

    2 Reviews
    Perry Lake, KS
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (913) 204-0606

    $49 - $600 / night

    "The woman that runs the place told us about a big lake that was close to us. We went there for a couple of days and have more fun it’s a beautiful big lake."

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Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Hiawatha, KS

2 Photos of 6 Hiawatha Campgrounds


Equestrian Camping Reviews near Hiawatha, KS

81 Reviews of 6 Hiawatha Campgrounds


  • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 31, 2022

    Weston Bend State Park Campground

    Enjoyable Stay

    Getting to the state park off I 29 and through the countryside was easy as the route had Weston Bend SP signage. We followed the SP signs to the campground(CG) where the gate was not manned so we headed to get water, but someone was sitting in the dump station waiting for another person to arrive so we went around this one-loop CG to see if there was a convenient spigot. There are spigots but with a larger rig, you will block the road, and/or you will be on a hill. We went back around and the person moved so we could get water. After that, we headed to pull through site 28 with electric(50/30/20 AMP) only. The site is long but has a 1/4 moon turn so we had to pull back around to get better positioned on the pad so we could disconnect our 39’ 5th wheel and F450 for our 3-night stay. There were tree branches overhead that we could not avoid. RVers next to us in site 30 had just arrived as well and were having trouble getting their travel trailer unhitched and leveled due to the pad’s slight incline and unlevel asphalt. They got their trailer positioned so they could get somewhat level. We got a solid two bars on both Verizon and T-Mobile. Due to our proximity to Kansas City, we got a lot of OTA channels. A satellite connection would be iffy in most sites here due to the number of mature trees. The trees in a lot of sites would also scrape the top of larger rigs. There’s a variety of sites with most being good for regular trailers versus tall rigs, and tent sites. They have a nice shower house with 1 washer and 1 dryer both for$1.50. There are also vaulted toilets here and there. There’s a 1.7-acre fenced dog park that includes one large area for large dogs and two other areas with one dedicated to smaller dogs. The dog area is at the front park entrance away from the campground and it would be a long walk to get there, so we drove up. There are a lot of hiking trails here plus an old tobacco barn that’s worth a look.

  • Kwin K.
    Jul. 3, 2018

    Hackberry Hollow Campground — Indian Cave State Park

    Almost like you’re not in Nebraska Anymore

    I love Indian Cave for the Oak Woodlands! This is unlike any other campground in Nebraska. There are plenty of camping sites around the park no matter your style, even spots for horses! I prefer the hike in spots myself. There are many trails here with great views of the river as well as family activities for those looking for less walking. The actual cave is not much to write home about as sadly it has been vandalIzed for many years. My favorite spot within 2 hours of Omaha/Lincoln for sure!

  • B
    Jun. 28, 2016

    Weston Bend State Park Campground

    quiet

    site: large. private. shaded. amenities: clean. well maintained. attractions: hiking. biking. close to Kansas City (40 minutes) I would go camping here again.

  • G
    Jun. 19, 2018

    Hackberry Hollow Campground — Indian Cave State Park

    Nice area

    This is a nice little area with some hiking and horse trails. There’s a trail that’s really steep but the view from the top of the river and the valley is worth it. The camping is either in a campground or there’s open areas along the road through the park. It’s a nice area and place to came but there’s no privacy or seclusion from other campers.

  • Lauri J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 8, 2025

    Weston Bend State Park Campground

    What a find

    This place was fantastic all the way around please note it’s July and they do have some construction going on in parts of the campground.

    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 and didn’t need any help.

    I was only there overnight and I got there after a 10 Hour Dr. so I did not spend a lot of time there, but I absolutely think it’s an it’s a gem of a place right outside of Kansas City.

  • Barbie G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 8, 2024

    Weston Bend State Park Campground

    Site 26 is Peaceful

    This was our 2nd stay at Weston Bend SP. Both times, we had site 26, one of the few basic sites. While some of the other sites were very close to each other, this one is relatively isolated. It's big too. There's a vault toilet close by. It was clean and roomy. We didn't use the water but there are a few spigot throughout the campground. There's also a regular restroom near the campground entrance, but we didn't use it. We will definitely camp here again if we are passing through.

  • James D.
    Oct. 1, 2016

    Hackberry Hollow Campground — Indian Cave State Park

    Great hiking trails, not overly built up, and yes, there might be horses

    There are about 20 miles to hike in this park and there is a special camping area for folks who bring horses. I was here in the spring but was told fall is the best time because of the changes in the trees. I believe it and hope to make it back some day. There are showers and water for campers which was a nice luxury. There were 5 people on horseback when we were there. You can mountain bike here but they do not allow swimming. At only $5/day for a permit this place is a steal. The caves were not what I expected. There is a fair amount of graffiti from local kids.

  • Michelle V.
    Aug. 19, 2020

    Hackberry Hollow Campground — Indian Cave State Park

    Great for car camping

    Just car tent camped here with my fiancé and dog over the weekend. We had many camp sites to choose from because it’s back to school time in NE (timing, timing, timing)! Basic tent sights are first come, $15 a night. The park offered firewood ($6) and ice for sale. Lots of hiking trails with different levels of difficulty and elevation. Most drive up camp sites have outhouses nearby. We sometimes drove up to the group tent sites where they have clean bathrooms, running water and showers (need quarters for shower). We had a great time and enjoyed being surrounded by all the lovely trees. Staff were friendly and the park was clean. Only bummer is the steps to the “cave” is still closed.

  • Stacy Z.
    Jul. 18, 2021

    Banner Creek

    Fireflies and cool breezes

    Bob and Diane were wonderful hosts!!! So kind and helpful!!! Sites were beautiful!!! We had a spot right near the grassy area with the woods right behind us!! Fireflies at night wonderful!! Great water hook up and electric site! They even came back with ice for us twice!!! Everything is very clean and well kept! The grounds and water are awesome!!! Site was a nice gravel pull in with good space away from other sites. Wonderful winds on hot nights!


Guide to Hiawatha

Horse camping in Kansas offers a unique opportunity to explore the great outdoors while enjoying the company of your equine friends. With a variety of well-reviewed campgrounds that cater to horse enthusiasts, you can find the perfect spot to set up camp and ride the trails.

Equestrian campgrounds include ample amenities for horses

Campers appreciate these amenities for horses

  • Banner Creek features spacious sites with drinking water and sanitary dump facilities, perfect for horse campers needing extra care for their animals.
  • At Honey Creek Conservation Area, you can enjoy free camping while having access to trails suitable for horseback riding.
  • Weston Bend State Park Campground offers a peaceful setting with ample space between sites, allowing for a comfortable experience for both you and your horse.

Tips for equestrian camping near Hiawatha, Kansas

  • When visiting Perry State Park Campground, consider arriving early to secure a good spot, especially during weekends when the campground can fill up quickly.
  • At Hackberry Hollow Campground — Indian Cave State Park, be prepared for challenging hiking trails that can be enjoyed on horseback, offering scenic views away from civilization.
  • Make sure to check the weather before heading to Happy Joy Acres as the wooded setting can provide shelter but may also lead to muddy conditions after rain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Hiawatha, KS?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Hiawatha, KS is Hackberry Hollow Campground — Indian Cave State Park with a 4.6-star rating from 24 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Hiawatha, KS?

TheDyrt.com has all 6 equestrian camping locations near Hiawatha, KS, with real photos and reviews from campers.