Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park features equestrian camping facilities for horse owners with access to 15,000 acres of riding trails. The area connects to the main campground, allowing access to park amenities. The campground sits at approximately 500 feet elevation with rolling terrain typical of western Kentucky's coal country. Summer temperatures reach 85-90°F while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions ranging from 55-75°F, making those seasons preferable for riders.
What to do
Beach swimming and water activities: Lake Barkley State Resort Park offers a large sandy beach with picnic tables, playground, and concessions. "The beach was amazing but it's first come first serve regardless if u camped there. It opens up at 10am," notes Erin R. The park also provides rentals for canoes, kayaks and paddle boats.
Miniature golf and recreation: Many campgrounds feature recreation options beyond trail riding. "Pennyrile Forest State Park was a pleasant surprise... Not only does this state park have a putt putt course, but it also has an 18-hole golf course complete with pro shop," shares Myron C. The course costs a small fee but provides entertainment for non-riders.
Trail exploration: For those seeking longer rides, the Pennyrile Nature Trail extends beyond park boundaries. "A newer trail Pennyrile Nature Trail is 13.5 mile long hiking trail, from Dawson Springs to the park," explains Shelly S. This multi-use trail accommodates both hikers and riders through varied terrain.
Wildlife viewing: The forests near Dawson Springs support diverse wildlife. "We even saw a bald eagle within 15 minutes drive from the park," reports Nicole P. Early morning and evening rides offer the best opportunities for spotting wildlife while on horseback.
What campers like
Equestrian-friendly sites: Wranglers Campground provides specialized facilities for horse owners. "Best horse campground in ky," states David R. The campground includes stables and direct access to extensive riding trails specifically designed for equestrian use.
Lake views from campsites: Many campgrounds near Dawson Springs feature waterfront camping. "Some sites have gorgeous views of Lake Barkley. Immaculate and well maintained," reports Cheryl K. about Canal Campground. These sites often require early reservations, especially during peak seasons.
Campground amenities: Facilities at KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point exceed typical equestrian camping. "We loved our visit to this KOA! Waterpark in the summer, boating activities, lake front sites. Countless activities for the kids and the pools are nice too!" shares Kristen. These additional amenities complement the horse-focused facilities.
Privacy options: Some equestrian campgrounds offer secluded sites. "There are some sites scattered in-between these two areas but for the most part the largest campsites areas are the high and low ground sites. The sites in-between the two high and low ground areas are very private and two are definitely secluded," notes lowrent0321 about Cravens Bay.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have elevation issues. "Beautiful area! Really nice swimming beach, hiking trails, and campground. Paved sites, most with plenty of shade... Only reason I don't give campground a 5 is due to the very sloped sites. Most are very difficult to level up," warns John R. about Lake Barkley State Resort Park.
Utility placement: Campsite utilities may require additional equipment. "Well kept, no sewer hookup on sites, bath house clean, electric far from pads - bring extension cord," advises holly S. Many equestrian sites have similar utility placement issues.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts trail conditions significantly. "Choose your time wisely. Camp filled up with hunters who started generators at 3 in the morning to get ready to head out for turkey," notes Art S. Spring often brings mud while fall offers optimal riding conditions but increased competition for sites.
Reservation requirements: Most established equestrian campgrounds require advance booking. "Reserve WAY ahead if you want one of the premium sites. Of course what you consider premium may not be what I consider premium," advises Shelly S. This is particularly important during peak riding seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access planning: Family-friendly water activities require timing. "The beach is free to public so very crowded and some elements are not family friendly," cautions John R. Arriving early helps secure space at swimming areas, especially during summer weekends.
Kid-focused amenities: Colson Hollow Group Camp accommodates larger family gatherings. "We had this received for a large group and it was great! Tons of room to spread out especially with the water as low as it was. Vault toilets on site and a few fire rings. Multiple picnic tables available," shares Matt S.
Educational opportunities: Nature programs supplement riding activities. "There is a plethora of wildlife. We even saw a bald eagle within 15 minutes drive from the park," notes Nicole P. These educational opportunities enhance family trips beyond standard trail riding.
Horse-watching options: Non-riding family members can still enjoy equestrian culture. "Fun experience staying with all the horses! I didn't really know it was a thing to bring horses to camp and ride them on the trails! Loved it," shares Tessa C. This provides entertainment even for family members without their own horses.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When booking equestrian campgrounds, consider alternatives to main camping areas. "Sites 49-51 are mislabeled online. Booked a pullthru spot on 49 but it wasn't. Campground was pretty full and we weren't offered a lot to correct that the website was wrong," notes Tessa C. about Wranglers Campground.
Extension cords required: Utility placement affects setup at Camp Cadiz Campground. "The sites are hard to back in with a camper, we had to buy longer extension cables and a longer water hose, sites are very close together," explains Erin R. This applies to many equestrian sites where utilities are positioned to accommodate horse trailers.
Equestrian site advantages: Consider equestrian camping areas even without horses. "When I talked to the campground host, he was very pleasant and explained that you do not have to have a horse to camp in the equestrian sites. Those sites are level pull-through sites," explains Myron C. These sites often provide better parking for larger rigs.
