Equestrian camping opportunities exist throughout the Mammoth Cave area, with several facilities located within 40 minutes of Clarkson, Kentucky. The region's karst landscape features rolling hills and hardwood forests crossed by numerous riding trails. Average summer temperatures reach 88°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide more comfortable camping conditions with temperatures between 60-75°F.
What to do
Explore the cave system on foot: Mammoth Cave National Park offers extensive hiking opportunities with trails connected directly to campgrounds. "We put in over 14 miles of hiking there. The staff was very friendly and helpful!! I would definitely recommend this park to friends and family. We can't wait to come back," notes a visitor at Nolin Lake State Park Campground.
Fish in stocked lakes and rivers: Several campgrounds provide direct access to fishing waters with diverse catch opportunities. "I've caught largemouth bass over 5 lb from the pond and all kinds of panfish," reports a camper at Cecilia Campgrounds, which features a fishing pond on a working organic hay farm.
Connect with trails outside the main tourist areas: The north side of Mammoth Cave Park offers less crowded trail access. "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, which was enjoyed by all, and we appreciated avoiding the main entrance besieged by spring break campers," shares one visitor about accessing trail systems.
What campers like
Wildlife sightings: Many campgrounds in the area feature frequent wildlife encounters. "Deer & turkey walk thru ur campsite! Very clean & quiet! The wildlife are very friendly!" notes a visitor to Mammoth Cave Campground.
Family-friendly activities: "The kids love the pool and trails. The campground sites are spacious and lots of shade in the summer. Beautiful in the fall!" shares a camper at O'Bannon Woods State Park, which offers recreational activities including swimming facilities.
Evening atmosphere: Natural ambiance after sunset ranks high among camper preferences. "Fireflies are great at night. Frogs are singing in the evening. Tons of trees and shade," reports a Mammoth Cave Campground visitor, highlighting the natural nighttime experience in the region.
What you should know
Tick protection is essential: Multiple campgrounds report tick issues, particularly in spring and early summer. A visitor to O'Bannon Woods State Park noted: "Ticks were REALLY bad. Maybe the season, maybe the area, not sure."
Navigating horse-focused campgrounds: When staying at equestrian facilities without horses, understand the layout. "Half the sites are for horses so it's a little more barn-like than I expected. Lots of trees but not all sites are shady," explains a visitor to Maple Springs Campground.
Transportation logistics: Ferry access is required for some campgrounds. "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," warns a Maple Springs Campground reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Consider off-peak seasons: Avoiding major holidays reduces crowding. "We went in April, one of the area's wetter months, and found the campsites to be well maintained, drained and free from debris. While no one enjoys wet camping, the great thing about this park is that the main attraction is always the same comfortable temp and weather year round," notes a camper.
Reserve cave tours early: Tours fill quickly, especially during peak season. "If you are going to visit the cave, be sure to book your tour ahead of time. The tours were all sold out when we got there!" advises a Maple Springs visitor.
Look for educational opportunities: "The nature center was basic but well prepared with critters and educational items. Everything except the nature center was reachable via bikes," shares a visitor at O'Bannon Woods, pointing out kid-friendly learning activities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: "Very small campground and narrow roads. Many sites were not level and some sites were very short so make sure you review the site description. Also some had sewer hook ups and others did not," notes a visitor to My Old Kentucky Home State Park.
Distance to hookups: "Sites are a bit uneven and water and electric is about 40 feet away. Make sure to have levelers to handle 7+ inches," warns a My Old Kentucky Home State Park camper, highlighting the importance of extension cords and leveling equipment.
Campground approach routes: Some horse campgrounds near Clarkson require careful navigation. "It is a one lane, paved road coming in. 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," explains a visitor describing the access road to equestrian facilities.
