Equestrian Camping near Gilbertsville, KY

Wranglers Campground offers extensive facilities for equestrian enthusiasts in the Land Between the Lakes recreation area. The campground features designated horse spaces adjacent to camping areas, with trailer parking at most sites. Water and electric hookups serve both RVs and horse trailers, while campfire rings and picnic tables provide comfort after trail rides. Trail conditions vary by season, with spring and fall providing optimal riding weather and summer requiring early morning or evening rides to avoid heat. The 100-mile trail system accommodates riders of all skill levels, with many trails featuring water crossings and natural obstacles for experienced horses.

What to do

Lake access for fishing: Canal Campground on Lake Barkley provides multiple options for water recreation. "Right outside Grand Rivers, Ky and along the canal that connects the two lakes. Reserve WAY ahead if you want one of the premium sites," notes Shelly S. The campground features a boat ramp within the grounds so visitors can "jump in your water craft from the boat ramp/dock within the campground and maneuver into either lake for site seeing, fishing and other water fun."

Beach swimming: KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point offers direct lake access with sandy shores. One visitor mentioned, "Our waterfront site was beautiful, and all the kids loved the zero entry children's pool." The campground maintains a family-friendly swimming area with both lake access and pool options. During summer months, the waterpark provides additional recreational opportunities.

Hiking trails: Multiple trail networks connect the recreation areas around Gilbertsville. At Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park, "There are numerous trails, and a plethora of wildlife. We even saw a bald eagle within 15 minutes drive from the park," according to Nicole P. The park's 13.5-mile Pennyrile Nature Trail connects Dawson Springs to the park, offering varied terrain and elevation changes.

Horseback camping: Dedicated equestrian campsites provide space for both riders and horses. "Best horse campground in KY," says David R. about Wranglers Campground. Non-equestrians can also enjoy these facilities, as the campground host at Pennyrile explains that "you do not have to have a horse to camp in the equestrian sites. Those sites are level pull-through sites."

What campers like

Privacy and seclusion: Cravens Bay offers secluded waterfront camping. "We stayed here in the middle of July in 2019! Wow was it hot! It also had a bit of flooding, however it made it easier for our girls to launch their kayaks and swim. Great spot for kayaking and tent camping. We were the only ones there so it was perfect!" writes Benjamin C. The campground sits on a remote road that provides distance from busier recreation areas.

Water proximity: Many sites offer direct lake access. At Canal Campground, "Some sites have gorgeous views of Lake Barkley. Immaculate and well maintained," according to Cheryl K. The campground's peninsula shape means "there are many campsites with water views and access."

Family activities: Lake Barkley State Resort Park provides various recreational options. "Lake Barkley State Park offers so many activities and is right on the edge of Land Between The Lakes that I have been going to both for years and still not gotten to all of the sites available," shares Shelly S. Amenities include beach areas, boat rentals, and nature programs suitable for all age groups.

Wildlife viewing: Campers consistently report abundant wildlife sightings. "Lots of different areas. One of my favorite in LBL. Tons of deer, and skunks, but they don't bother you," notes Jessica F. about Canal Campground. Early morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities.

What you should know

Site levelness varies significantly: Many campgrounds feature challenging sites. At Pennyrile Forest, "Sites are very sloped. Worst I've ever seen. Major drawback to this campground," reports John R. Similarly, at Lake Barkley State Park, "Pads are not level. Saw a class A that had front wheels 10" off the ground and a TT with the hitch on the ground."

Utility placement considerations: Some campgrounds have unusual utility configurations. "Make sure you have extension cords and hoses as the utilities are positioned in between two sites," advises Ann D. about Lake Barkley State Park. Multiple campers recommend bringing extra-long electrical cords and water hoses.

Reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly during peak seasons. At Shawnee Forest Campground, "We'd seen signs for Shawnee Forest Campground many times as we headed out and back from our St. Louis home base and wanted to check this CG out." The campground offers "great pull through sites several ponds fishing catch and release very nice walking paths plenty of woods easy on easy off."

Seasonal considerations: Summer heat affects camping comfort. "Seasonal considerations affect trail conditions, with spring and fall offering optimal riding weather," notes a reviewer about Wranglers Campground. During July and August, water-based activities provide the most comfortable recreation options.

Tips for camping with families

Golf cart rentals: Several campgrounds permit or rent golf carts for easier site navigation. At KOA Prizer Point, "I recommend renting a golf cart. This is a very large campground," advises Eric M. The mobility helps families with small children navigate between amenities and reduces walking fatigue during hot weather.

Beginner-friendly horse experiences: For families new to equestrian camping, Wranglers Campground provides accessible options. "We didn't really know it was a thing to bring horses to camp and ride them on the trails! Loved it. Spots are pretty close together but fine for big rigs," explains Tessa C. First-time horse campers can observe experienced riders and learn about proper horse camping practices.

Beach access timing: The Art Farm Women's Retreat offers a quieter alternative to crowded public beaches. "Serene and private. Beautiful rolling farmland, just minutes from town. They also offer tiny home rentals, yurt-style glamping tents, RV spots with 30 amp, 50 amp and 110 outlets," according to Laura P. The property provides family-friendly accommodations with less crowding than public recreation areas.

Group camping options: For larger family gatherings, designated group sites offer space and privacy. "We had this reserved for a large group and it was great! Tons of room to spread out especially with the water as low as it was," reports Matt S. about Colson Hollow Group Camp. These sites typically include multiple picnic tables and fire rings to accommodate extended family gatherings.

Tips from RVers

Utility extension needs: Many campers recommend bringing extra-long power cords and water hoses. "Sites 49-51 are mislabeled online. Booked a pullthru spot on 49 but it wasn't," warns Tessa C. about Wranglers Campground. Having extension cords prevents disappointment when hookups aren't where expected.

Leveling requirements: RVers consistently mention the need for substantial leveling equipment. "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," reports Erin R. about Pennyrile Forest. Experienced campers recommend bringing extra leveling blocks for the often sloped sites.

Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on shade needs and seasonal temperatures. "If we come back, we'll know where to ask for a site. They have a small lake and two ponds for fishing," notes MickandKarla W. about their Shawnee Forest experience. During summer months, shaded sites provide much-needed temperature relief, while open sites work better for spring and fall camping.