Equestrian camping options near Falls of Rough, Kentucky provide trail access to varied terrain. Several campgrounds within a 45-minute drive offer specialized facilities for horseback riders. Most equestrian sites include water hookups and spacious areas for horse trailers with separate parking for riding equipment.
What to do
Trail riding at multiple difficulty levels: Mammoth Cave National Park offers interconnected riding paths with several technical sections. One visitor notes, "Maple Springs facilitates this but with a little more privacy between sites. You have your fire ring, picnic table and room to get comfortable." The trails include small hills that give horses a moderate workout.
Swimming after rides: Nolin Lake State Park Campground provides lake access where riders can cool off after dusty trail rides. A reviewer mentions, "Nolin lake was very beautiful and peaceful. The campground had two tent camping locations and a rv area." The lake has designated swimming areas away from boat traffic.
Ferry crossing experience: Some trail routes require crossing the Green River Ferry to access additional riding terrain. "We first entered the park via the 'secret' entrance, byway of a narrow road at the very north of the park, in which we had to take a single car automated ferry across the green river," shared a visitor about their experience accessing Maple Springs Campground.
What campers like
Direct trail access: Mammoth Cave Horse Camp provides immediate entry to riding trails without trailering. A camper explains, "Tucked away on the backside of Mammoth Cave NF, Ky, you want to find this Horse Camp. Direct access to several horse trails in Mammoth Cave. Spend your day riding and then kick back at your site and relax."
Clean shower facilities: Equestrian camping at Double J Stables and Campground offers well-maintained shower facilities essential after long rides. A visitor reported, "The restrooms/showers are just steps away and easily accessed. All the times we have stayed, the restrooms were well maintained and clean."
Nature encounters: Wildlife sightings enhance the riding experience with opportunities to see deer and turkeys along trails. One camper at Mammoth Cave Campground shared, "Very clean & quiet! The wildlife are very friendly!" Another noted seeing "a Momma deer and her little one walk through the woods by your campsite or down by the boat launch, often followed by a turkey or two."
What you should know
Tick protection required: Horse campgrounds throughout the region report high tick populations, especially in spring and early summer. A visitor to Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground warned, "The tick's here seem like the Infantry, swarming the objective from all side's. Bring your bug stuff!"
Reservation timing: Popular equestrian sites fill quickly during peak seasons. A camper at Nolin Lake State Park noted, "This campground books 6 months out. Very hard to get a spot, but so worth it!"
Trail marking inconsistency: Some riding paths lack clear markings at intersections. One visitor observed, "The Tipsaw Lake Trail is 5.9 miles of small hilled, technical single track trail that gives you chance to enjoy the woods. The trail is not marked very well around the boat ramp and beach area so it may take some searching to find it if your not familiar."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Cecilia Campgrounds offers a fishing pond suitable for families with children learning to fish. A camper notes, "I've caught largemouth bass over 5 lb from the pond and all kinds of panfish," making it an excellent option when kids need a break from horseback activities.
Plan for seasonal events: Some horse campgrounds host special weekend activities for children. A camper at Otter Creek Park Campground shared, "We go every fall with our entire family to enjoy the Halloween activities. The campers all go all out and let the kids trick or treat."
Nature center visits: Educational stops between rides help children learn about local ecosystems. A visitor mentioned, "My kids enjoyed the nature center, pioneer village, and one of the easy trails," providing alternatives when young riders need rest days.
Tips from RVers
Entrance route considerations: Some equestrian campgrounds have narrow access roads requiring coordination. A camper advises, "It is a one lane, paved road coming in (Lincoln School Rd). There is a sign telling you to call before you start down the road with your RV so they can make sure no one else is going to block you."
Site width for trailers: RVers with horse trailers should check site dimensions before booking. A visitor to O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground mentioned, "Not all pads are level or very wide," which can create challenges when positioning both living quarters and horse trailers.
Alternative routes when towing: The Green River Ferry cannot accommodate large horse trailers. One visitor shared important information: "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."
