Daniel Boone National Forest offers several equestrian camping options within an hour's drive of Campton. The forest spans over 700,000 acres of eastern Kentucky with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,500 feet. Horse camp facilities vary from primitive sites with basic amenities to more developed campgrounds with electrical hookups.
What to Do
Trail riding: Horse owners can access extensive trail systems directly from S-Tree Campground near McKee. "This is a riders paradise. Multiple trials to venture on. The campsites are huge with available fire pits and restrooms," notes Wayne H.
Fishing: Access Dewey Lake from German Bridge - Dewey Lake campground for kayaking or bank fishing. "Love getting to take my kayak out on the water, great view of the bridge," says Leah P. The lake offers opportunities for catfish, bluegill, and muskie.
Cave exploration: Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground provides access to multiple cave systems and natural bridges. "The park is beautiful, but not campground. Lots to do hiking, fishing, caves and caverns to explore," reports Ron & Bonnie D. Tours range from beginner-friendly walks to more challenging spelunking adventures.
What Campers Like
Private river sites: The Ole Cornfield campground in Salt Lick offers spacious sites along the Licking River. "The camping is just so relaxing, right on the river, open space, beautiful land! We can't wait to visit again," writes DD.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms at equestrian campgrounds. At The Ole Cornfield, "Bathrooms are kept very clean and offers quality toilet paper and paper towels," according to Karen P. Similarly, S-Tree Campground receives compliments: "Bathrooms were clean. Campsite was clean. Campground very well maintained," reports Amy K.
Horse amenities: For those traveling with horses, several facilities offer special accommodations. At German Bridge, "For an extra fee ($15 I think, we don't have horses) you could board your horse in the barn," notes Stephanie T.
What You Should Know
Cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between horse campgrounds near Campton. At S-Tree, "I have cell service with Verizon. I was able to make & receive calls. Internet signal was not the best," reports Amy K. At White Sulphur Horse Camp, John notes, "There was slight cell service for Verizon & AT&T, enough for maybe text but not very consistent."
Water access: Many equestrian sites have limited water facilities. At Twin Knobs, one camper noted it was "lovely site, totally private, on the lake, but really inconvenient if you want water hookup." Pack extra containers or hoses when visiting primitive sites.
Reservation systems: Most horse camps operate on different reservation systems. The Ole Cornfield provides on-site assistance: "When you arrive the host (Justin), brings you wood and a picnic table. Helps if you need anything," according to Karen P.
Tips for Camping with Families
Lake activities: Twin Knobs Recreation Area provides water-based recreation for children. "Good to stay for a relaxing weekend with your family. Nice spots by the lake and includes a beach area with a little store for any last minute supplies," shares Megan D.
Wildlife watching: Many local campgrounds offer opportunities to spot native Kentucky wildlife. "The kids love to play in the river, which is about 1 to 2 feet deep at this location. Great for wading and catching minnows, crawdads, and such," explains Karen P. about The Ole Cornfield.
Weather preparation: Mountain weather can change quickly, so pack accordingly. One camper at Lago Linda Hideaway shared, "I went during late March and will definitely go again when it's warmer to enjoy swimming in the lake!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For larger rigs, choose carefully among equestrian campgrounds. At Carter Caves, "The equestrian sites are full hookups and able to accommodate large rigs with pull through sites. The RV sites are under construction and will be some time before they are done," advises Robert H.
Hookup locations: Be prepared for unusual utility placements at some parks. At Jenny Wiley State Park, one camper noted, "What's odd is that you share a water spigot with a neighbor so you have to have a long hose to go across your whole section."
Access roads: Some horse camps have challenging approach roads. At S-Tree, Andrew G. warns, "I made it in and out twice in an HHR, but I was bottoming out on gravel and such. Overall, the HHR handled it fine, it just wasn't worth it."
