Equestrian camping near Horse Cave, Kentucky offers access to over 60 miles of trails through woodland terrain within Mammoth Cave National Park. The area sits within the karst landscape of south-central Kentucky at approximately 600 feet elevation, characterized by limestone formations, springs, and sinkholes. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with hot, humid summers averaging 87°F and mild winters with occasional below-freezing temperatures.
What to Do
Trail riding to Green River: Trail access points at Maple Springs Campground connect riders to the park's extensive trail system. "There are free dispersed camping sites! Just check in with the main camp office first. Many, many interesting things to see," notes reviewer Shelly S.
Cave tours with riding breaks: After morning rides, explore underground wonders at Mammoth Cave. "The campground is standard run of fair, pretty spacious & woodsy. THE CAVE IS VERY BIG AND COOL. Reserve the all day guided tour with crawling about in small spaces for the best experience," advises Dan X.
Guided park access: Double J Stables and Campground provides unique riding opportunities. "They are the only guided horse trails that authorized to go into the National Park. At only $25 for an hour ride and $35 for a 2 hour ride, it's less expensive than a lot of other places I have been," shares Heather K.
What Campers Like
Wildlife encounters: Many equestrian campers appreciate the natural surroundings. "Very clean & quiet! The wildlife are very friendly," reports Gloria J., who stayed at Mammoth Cave Campground.
Evening atmosphere: After trail riding, campers enjoy the natural ambiance. "Fireflies are great at night. Frogs are singing in the evening. Tons of trees and shade," shares Veronica S.
Group-friendly layouts: Certain campgrounds arrange sites to accommodate groups of riders. "The campground is set up in what I call wagon train circles. If you're going with a large group it's perfect. People parked their toys and cars in the middle and set up in the sites around the hub," explains Shelly S. about Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park.
What You Should Know
Tick prevention essential: The area's wooded trails harbor ticks during warm months. "The park is infested with seed ticks and deer ticks. I was pulling ticks off of every inch of me even though I was coated in several layers of hardcore bug spray and my gear had been treated with permethrin," warns Carrie J. at Maple Springs Campground.
Water access limitations: Some horse-friendly campgrounds lack direct water access despite lake proximity. "Only downfall here is there isn't really a place to access gorgeous dale hollow lake without a boat... we could see it with a small drive but there isn't a beach on the KY side," mentions Beth H.
Trail conditions vary seasonally: Heavy rainfall can impact riding conditions. The Nolin Lake State Park Campground area offers alternative trail options during wet seasons. "I might return here but perhaps would choose to camp during the week or during a less busy time of year," suggests Christina M.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly layouts: Certain campgrounds feature designs that work well with children. "Sites are in sections in small loops. Very good for families. Kids can ride their bikes around the circle. Playgrounds are everywhere," describes Beth H. about Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park.
Accessible trail options: For families with mixed riding abilities, consider shorter trails. "Direct trail access" is available at several campgrounds, allowing riders to "spend your day riding and then kick back at your site and relax," according to Shelly S. at Mammoth Cave Horse Camp.
Educational opportunities: Combined riding and learning experiences enhance family trips. "The only time during the last 10 years I was not at the Park at least monthly was during my deployment and when the government shutdown in 2013," shares Shelly S., highlighting consistent year-round access to educational programs.
Tips from RVers
Water hose length: Some equestrian sites have distant hookups. "I also wish they would have mentioned the length to water hookup. We ended up having to go buy a longer water hose bc the hookup was more than 30 foot away," cautions Beth H.
Access route planning: RVers with horse trailers should research road access carefully. "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," advises Bounding Around about Maple Springs.
Campsite configuration: Many equestrian sites have specific layouts for trailers. "All the improved campsites are easily accessed and easy to find. Each improved site has a light post with electric, water, picnic table and fire ring. The sites are surrounded by a gravel loop, so you can pull straight in and when you leave, pull straight out," describes Heather K. about Double J Stables and Campground.
