Green River Lake State Park near Columbia, Kentucky offers multiple campsites for equestrians exploring the region. The campground sits at approximately 700 feet elevation with seasonal temperatures ranging from 30°F in winter to 90°F in summer. While Green River Stables provides covered stalls for horses, several other equestrian-friendly campgrounds in the area offer different trail experiences and amenities for riders.
What to do
Explore underground wonders: Mammoth Cave National Park, located about an hour from Columbia, offers unique experiences beyond horseback riding. "The campground is a few minute walk to the visitor's center, from which you can catch daily tours of all types ranging from themed cave tours to botony forest walks and guided history walks," explains one visitor at Mammoth Cave Campground. The cave maintains a consistent temperature year-round, making it an ideal activity during inclement weather.
Kayak Green River: The waterways near Columbia provide excellent paddling opportunities. "We stopped in nearby Greensburg on the way to rent a kayak, as we'd heard the closest marina(s) to the campground only had pontoons and larger craft. The river itself was wonderful to explore via kayak," notes a camper who visited Green River Lake State Park Campground.
Hike scenic trails: The Maple Springs area offers hiking trails accessible directly from the campgrounds. "There are some good technical single track trails that take you into the woods AND there are free dispersed camping sites," mentions a reviewer at Maple Springs Campground. These trails connect to longer routes throughout the region, accommodating both day hikers and backpackers.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others in the area. At Great Meadows Campground, "The campsites are off to themselves and make for great camping with privacy. The drive there is a little long and no cell service for the most part but isn't that what camping is about anyway," writes a reviewer at Great Meadows Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Many campers appreciate the natural wildlife encounters. "Deer & turkey walk thru ur campsite! Very clean & quiet! The wildlife are very friendly!" shares one enthusiastic visitor to Mammoth Cave Campground. These encounters are most common during early morning and evening hours.
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature access to swimming. At Barren River Lake Resort, "the beach was amazing and clean," according to one camper. These swimming areas typically open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, providing relief during hot summer months.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Campground amenities vary by season. "We stayed at this beautiful park in early November. There were only a few other campers so it was peaceful and very pretty. We enjoyed the lake views and fall colors everywhere. The downside was the store was closed and the wifi we expected wasn't on," shares a visitor to Green River Lake State Park Campground.
Cell service limitations: Communication can be challenging in some areas. "No cell service for the most part," notes a Great Meadows camper. Many primitive horseback riding areas have similar connectivity challenges.
Limited shower facilities: Not all equestrian camping areas offer full shower facilities. Some locations provide only vault toilets or pit toilets, particularly at primitive sites designed for horse campers.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Some campgrounds offer better facilities for children. At Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park, "Campsites are in sections in small loops. Very good for families. Kids can ride their bikes around the circle. Playgrounds are everywhere." These circular camping arrangements allow parents to monitor children while maintaining community with other campers.
Swimming options: During summer months, look for campgrounds with designated swimming areas. "Campground is surrounded by lake. Has a beach for swimming and playgrounds for the kids," notes a reviewer at Green River Lake State Park.
Space considerations: For families needing room to spread out, certain sites offer more space. At My Old Kentucky Home State Park, one camper noted: "We stayed in spot 22 which is large and spacious. Seven of us camped (two families) with three tents, three hammicks and two cars. We had plenty of room."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: RV sites vary significantly in quality and levelness. "Check in was easy and nice level sites close to the water. The newer section has very few trees for shade. The older section had plenty of shade and nice sites," advises an RV camper who stayed at Green River Lake State Park.
Hookup distance planning: Water and electric connections may be farther from parking pads than expected. "I also wish they would have mentioned the length to water hookup. We ended up having to go buy a longer water hose bc the hookup was more than 30 foot away," shares a camper at Dale Hollow Lake Primitive Camping.
Leveling challenges: Many horse camping sites require substantial leveling equipment. One camper advises: "Make sure to have levelers to handle 7+ inches," when staying at equestrian-friendly campgrounds in the area.
