Kentucky's equestrian camping destinations offer direct access to extensive trail systems throughout the state. Most horse campgrounds near Columbus, Kentucky provide water and electric hookups with sufficient space for trailers and equipment. The region features a mix of primitive and developed sites where camping season typically runs from April through November, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 90°F depending on the season.
What to Do
Trail riding opportunities: The Ole Cornfield provides excellent river access for those who want to combine riding with water activities. As one camper notes, "The grandkids 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."
Horseback adventures: Equestrians visiting S-Tree Campground can access multiple trail systems designed specifically for riders. A reviewer mentioned it's a "Riders Paradise" with "Multiple trials to venture on. The campsites are huge with available fire pits and restrooms."
Water activities: When not on horseback, many horse camps offer additional recreation. At The Ole Cornfield, "They have kayaks for rent at the campground or you can bring your own. They shuttle you up to the dam and it takes a couple of hours to get back down to their campground."
What Campers Like
Spacious sites: Equestrian campers appreciate ample space at Twin Knobs Recreation Area, where "The campground is in a wooded area and each campsite is separate by woods from the nearby sites. There are shower and toilet facilities close by. The campground is located on a lake."
Clean facilities: Consistently mentioned across reviews is the maintenance of bathhouses. At Taylorsville Lake State Park Campground, visitors report that "The bath house was pretty immaculate for such a full weekend. Several playgrounds nearby if you have kids to occupy."
Natural settings: Campers value the natural surroundings at horse camps. One visitor to Lago Linda Hideaway shared, "Really loved staying here- close enough to the beautiful hikes and climbs of the area, and far enough to feel really private and woodsy. Since it was so warm, we took a dip in the lake."
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: Some horse camps operate on a first-come basis while others require advance planning. S-Tree Campground operates on "First come first serve basis. This is a free campsite with no electricity available."
Site variations: Not all sites offer the same amenities. At Lago Linda Hideaway, "The individual sites looked nice, some were a little close clustered, others had nice space between them. Bunk houses, as well as covered tent camping areas."
Seasonal considerations: Most equestrian campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Twin Knobs Recreation Area operates from "April 25 to November 2," making it unavailable during winter months.
Road conditions: Access can be challenging at some locations. One camper noted about S-Tree: "The northern road in isn't all that bad, but the south road is what I NEEDED to use to get to my various destinations, and it was a rough one."
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with water features. At The Ole Cornfield, "We went kayaking (they have a kayaking service on site) and played in the river. Far enough away from the road that we didn't hear any noise, just the river running. Campfire every night. Frog hunting (catch and release)."
Playground access: Several equestrian campgrounds include play areas. At Taylorsville Lake, there are "Several playgrounds nearby if you have kids to occupy."
Educational opportunities: Combine camping with learning experiences. Near Kentucky Horse Park Campground, visitors can access "Right next-door to the Kentucky Horse Park, which is a must see. Very interesting museum and lots of barn with different types of horses in them to visit."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should research specific sites before arriving. At Lago Linda Hideaway, "The area for RV's is a little tight in the trees and probably won't accommodate an extremely large vehicle. However, there is a huge open field on further into the camp that should be fairly easy to turn around in."
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary by site. At Taylorsville Lake State Park, campers found "Plenty of room for camper and car, big grass area and nice bathhouse."
Accessibility considerations: RV drivers should note potential challenges. One reviewer mentioned about S-Tree, "I wouldn't recommend a long RV up there, although there seems to be another 10 or so sites big enough for RVs and trailers."
