2 campgrounds with availability next weekend
Horse camping near Mount Vernon, KY includes fully equipped equestrian campgrounds with level pull-through sites, full hookups, and direct access to bridle trail networks. The campground includes a dedicated horse camping area with level pull-through sites and full hookups. Unlike the regular camping areas with their notably sloped terrain, the equestrian sites provide a level surface ideal for larger rigs and horse trailers. The campground connects to an extensive network of riding trails that wind through the forested terrain. Multiple reviews confirm the equestrian sites are significantly more accessible than the standard campground, which often presents leveling challenges for RVs and campers. Water hookups, electric service, and sewer connections are available at the horse camping sites, allowing for extended stays while exploring the park's trail system.
Located within a 15,000-acre recreation area, the bridle trails at Pennyrile Forest offer varied terrain for riders of all experience levels. Trail access begins directly from the equestrian camping area, eliminating the need to trailer horses to trailheads. The park maintains well-marked trails through hardwood forests and along lake shorelines. Horse owners can enjoy day-long rides without covering the same ground twice. The park operates seasonally from April 1 to October 31, with peak horse camping occurring during spring and fall when temperatures are moderate. Sites in the equestrian camping area must be reserved in advance, particularly during weekend periods when the campground frequently reaches capacity. Potable water for horses is accessible at various points throughout the campground.
"It is located back in the hills, far off the highway. Very little cell phone signal. Very relaxing and enjoyable."
"Located in Southwest Indiana, about 40 miles from Evansville. This is a typical Indiana State Park. Some sites are pretty close together, some are spacious."
Available next weekend
from $20 - $40 / night
"The tent pads are right by the water, offering stunning lake views. Each site comes equipped with a fire ring, picnic table, and access to toilets—everything you need for a comfortable stay."
"Lake mauzy is very quiet. No hookups but if you want to boondocks this is a great place."
"Pennyrile Forest State Park off Ky69 outside Dawson Springs, Ky. A newer trail Pennyrile Nature Trail is 13.5 mile long hiking trail, from Dawson Springs to the park."
"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."
Available next weekend
from $20 - $45 / night
"Was looking for a quiet area, and not some drive-through campsite, this fit the bill."
"Lots of places to walk. Great views of the small lake."
"On a gravel road, in the back country like most everything else on this side of Illinois , fill your gas tank up and your food locker or you will be driving back out a ways to refill. "
"It's super quiet despite the gravel road nearby. The vault restroom is kept very clean. It has easy access to the River to River trail, and I love the CCC stonework."
GuideQuiet clean campground, 8 sites, one water spigot, pit toilets, hiking and biking, 9 miles to Garden of the Gods. Campground is right next to road. Local traffic is minimal, most sites will accommodate 30ft trailer or motor home.
GuideNice quiet wooded campground. We were only here 1 night, but it was very enjoyable. Very large campground with shaded & sunny spots, mostly level, showers & bathrooms were clean, but no locks on the doors in women's & no doors in the men's, only curtains. Double lane dump station well laid out & good water pressure. We were here 2nd week in September on a Friday so it was not crowded, but I suspect during the summer it would be. The mosquitoes were bad so be prepared. All in all we would stay again.
ScoutVery family oriented place to camp and adventure with the kiddos
ScoutThe campground is very clean! The campground host is nice. We will be happy to stay here again! They offer full hookups and have several spots.
GuideThis is our Favorite campground in Evansville we have stayed here multiple times when in town to visit our son. Level pull through FHU clean nice afternoon shade. The sites are nearby but feels more roomy than it is. We stay here everytime we can.
TravelerThis is an amazing spot for free camping! The tent pads are right by the water, offering stunning lake views. Each site comes equipped with a fire ring, picnic table, and access to toilets—everything you need for a comfortable stay. Despite its remote feel, Walmart is just a 12-minute drive away for any last-minute supplies. We would have loved to stay longer, but incoming storms cut our trip short. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a peaceful and scenic getaway! No electricity or showers!
LegendI stayed here on a whim on my way to a funeral. I just needed a place to rest for the night. This was a peaceful place and clean. Just needs to be updated.
TravelerHarmonie State Park looks like a great place for a family vacation. In addition to the campground with at least 2 playgrounds, there are trails, picnic areas and a boat ramp. We only stayed 1 night. Site 166 is big and on the end of a road. There's a restroom and water spigot within walking distance. They have showers but we didn't use them. Our only problem was 1 or more raccoons kept coming into our site. We shooed them away but they kept coming back. I'm sure they were just looking for food.
ScoutI stayed here and camped for a bike rally. I think you can only camp during an event. And cost is different from each event. Nice place
Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park equestrian campground provides a dedicated camping area specifically designed for horse owners. The park's equestrian camping area features level pull-through sites that accommodate larger vehicles and horse trailers, unlike the regular camping area which has significantly sloped terrain. Connected to an extensive network of riding trails through the forested landscape, these sites offer water, electric, and sewer hookups for extended stays.
Explore historic New Harmony: Within driving distance of horse campgrounds near Mount Vernon, Kentucky, Harmonie State Park Campground offers access to the historic town of New Harmony. "New Harmony is a great place to vacation with family. The state park is gorgeous. The small town had several antique shops and local owned restaurants," shares Jamie B.
Enjoy water recreation: The equestrian campgrounds region offers multiple water recreation options during summer months. "In summer for swimming and rental boats paddle boats and some battery powered boats," notes J K. about Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park. The park features a beach area with sandy shores and boat rentals.
Seasonal events: Fall camping is popular at equestrian campgrounds in the Mount Vernon area. "We stayed the weekend before Halloween. We missed reserving the weekend they have the campground trick or treating, which was the weekend before, but this was just as fun," explains Nichole M. The Halloween weekend typically requires early reservations as it fills quickly.
Beach access: The beach areas near equestrian campgrounds provide family-friendly recreation. "Swimming beach very nice... Nice size lake with canoe, paddle board rentals. Great kid environment," reports John R. The beaches often include amenities like playgrounds and concession areas alongside the water activities.
Woodland trails: Camp Cadiz Campground offers trail access for both hikers and those seeking solitude. "The hiking trails that headed out from the camp were wonderful. We even hiked down the forest road and found a hidden cemetery tucked away," shares Art S. The River to River trail also begins at this location.
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the roominess at certain sites in the Mount Vernon horse camping region. "Our family has been camping here for several years. Great spots and very well maintained," reports Keith M. The equestrian campgrounds generally provide more room than standard sites to accommodate trailers and horses.
Site leveling challenges: Regular campsites at some parks require equipment for leveling. "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," explains John R. about regular camping areas.
Seasonal operation: Most equestrian campgrounds near Mount Vernon operate on a limited schedule. Lake Mauzy East provides a year-round alternative when horse campgrounds are closed. "Lake mauzy is very quiet. No hookups but if you want to boondocks this is a great place," notes Tammy.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for encounters with local wildlife when camping in the region. "Our only problem was 1 or more raccoons kept coming into our site. We shooed them away but they kept coming back. I'm sure they were just looking for food," reports Barbie G. Proper food storage is essential at equestrian campgrounds.
Pool facilities: Some equestrian campgrounds near Mount Vernon feature swimming pools that families particularly enjoy. "They have a fun fall festival around halloween. Nature center and nice swimming pool for the kids," mentions Keith M. These facilities typically operate between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Multi-generational activities: Union County Fair offers camping during special events that appeal to various age groups. "I stayed here and camped for a bike rally. I think you can only camp during an event. And cost is different from each event. Nice place," reports Denton T. Check the event calendar before planning your trip.
Playground accessibility: When camping with children, consider the distance to play areas. "We camped with 3 other families and had adjacent sites that worked perfectly for us, plenty of space for the kids to play, although a little far from the playground," shares Nichole M. Request sites closer to playgrounds when making reservations.
Equestrian sites for non-horse owners: RVers without horses can still benefit from equestrian sites. "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," notes Myron C. This option provides better accessibility for larger rigs.
Hookup planning: For those requiring full hookups, extension equipment may be necessary. "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," warns Erin R. Pack extended cords and hoses when visiting horse campgrounds in the region.
Supply considerations: Remote locations require advance planning. "On a gravel road, in the back country like most everything else on this side of Illinois, fill your gas tank up and your food locker or you will be driving back out a ways to refill," advises Shelly S. about camping in the region. Stock necessities before arriving at more isolated equestrian camping areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Mount Vernon, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Mount Vernon, KY is Harmonie State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 35 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Mount Vernon, KY?
TheDyrt.com has all 7 equestrian camping locations near Mount Vernon, KY, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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