Equestrian camping near Cave City, Kentucky offers direct access to numerous trail networks within Mammoth Cave National Park. The area features mixed hardwood forests with elevations ranging from 500 to 800 feet above sea level. Most horse-friendly campgrounds remain open year-round with spring and fall providing optimal trail conditions due to moderate temperatures and reduced insect activity.
What to do
Trail riding in Mammoth Cave National Park: Access multiple trail networks directly from campgrounds like Maple Springs Campground. "There are some good technical single track trails that take you into the 'woods' AND there are free dispersed camping sites! Just check in with the main camp office first. Many, many interesting things to see," explains one camper.
Kayaking on Green River: Launch from access points near the campgrounds for day trips. "The Green River runs through portions of the park, offering natural water access points" with rentals available in nearby Greensburg. As one visitor notes, "The river itself was wonderful to explore via kayak, and we ended up barely hiking."
Hiking on mixed-use trails: Explore the extensive trail network spanning through rolling terrain. "I put in over 14 miles of hiking there. The trail system in the park was great," reports a visitor at Nolin Lake State Park.
Fishing at nearby lakes: Both Nolin Lake and Barren River Lake offer fishing opportunities a short drive from Cave City. "Lots of boating options. Bring your own or rent. The lake is huge and busy with a marina," notes a camper who visited Barren River Lake Resort Lodge & Cottages.
What campers like
Direct trail access: Horse-friendly campgrounds provide immediate entry to trail systems. "The campground is well spaced out, horse trailer and horse friendly, pretty good shade. I am not a horse person so I can't speak from that expertise. Plenty of room for groups," reports one visitor about Maple Springs Campground.
Wildlife encounters: The natural forest setting attracts diverse wildlife. "People here were kind and trustworthy... Fireflies are great at night. Frogs are singing in the evening. Tons of trees and shade," describes a visitor at Mammoth Cave Campground.
Water proximity: Several campgrounds feature waterfront sites. "Very nice camping areas, secluded and quiet, easy access to the trails. Well maintained full hookup for RVs and plenty of room for your horse too," notes a camper at Maple Springs.
Varied terrain: The combination of open meadows and forested trails creates diverse riding experiences. "Like most, we were here to visit Mammoth Cave National Park. We stayed on the Maple Springs side of the Green River to be closer to the mountain bike trails and are glad we did. The trails were great for both of us and we could ride straight from the campground."
What you should know
Ferry crossing required: Some campgrounds require crossing the Green River by ferry. "If you are in a RV note that you can't go across the ferry with your rig!!! You have to go around the park to access this campground. We are so glad we realized that ahead of time and didn't have to back track."
Tick activity: Prepare for insects, especially during warmer months. "The only downside to the entire trip is that the park is infested with seed ticks and deer ticks. I was pulling ticks off of every inch of me even though I was coated in several layers of hardcore bug spray and my gear had been treated with permethrin," warns a visitor to Maple Springs Campground.
Limited facilities: Some equestrian camping areas have basic amenities only. "Pit toilets…though they are clean and well maintained," notes one camper about Maple Springs. At Double J Stables and Campground, "The electrical sites did not have standard 110/120v outlets. The picnic table was shared between sites."
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "This campground books 6 months out. Very hard to get a spot, but so worth it!" advises a camper about Nolin Lake State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Horse trail packages: For families without horses, guided rides offer park access. At Mammoth Cave Horse Camp, "Spend your day riding and then kick back at your site and relax. There is an area in the 'back' to park your rig and set up your glamping area."
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. At Double J Stables and Campground, "There is a playground for younger kids to play on. While we were there the owners were fundraising so they could improve it further."
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with water access for cooling off. "The campground is surrounded by lake. Has a beach for swimming and playgrounds for the kids," says one visitor about Green River Lake State Park.
Varied accommodations: Options range from tent sites to cabins. "Highly recommend this trip and staying in the Mammoth Cave Lodge cottages! Close to the cave tours, Green River, and lots of hiking trails in the area!"
Tips from RVers
Site layout considerations: Choose sites based on your equipment size. "The sites accommodate both tents and RVs, with ample space for horse trailers." At Nolin Lake, "The campground had two tent camping locations and a rv area... I like the back in sites with shade and a small patio to set up on. They have small asphalt pads so you will get your backing skills tested."
Hookup availability: Verify utility connections before booking. "The sites are not shaded but the entire property is surrounded by trees of Mammoth Cave National Park. All the improved sites have a light post with electric, water, picnic table and fire ring."
Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal when selecting a campground. "Shower facilities are available on-site, along with toilets and a sanitary dump station for RVs" at several area campgrounds.
