Equestrian camping options near Irvine, Kentucky provide direct trail access to the Daniel Boone National Forest's diverse terrain. The region's rolling hills and hardwood forests create natural trail corridors that connect multiple camping areas throughout Estill, Powell, and surrounding counties. Most horse campgrounds in this area operate seasonally due to winter conditions and trail accessibility concerns.
What to do
Trail riding at Twin Knobs Recreation Area: The extensive trail system offers varied terrain for riders of all skill levels. A visitor noted, "The campground is located on a lake. Taking the horses out here was a wonderful experience, it was great having so many different trails to go on in order to not only train the new horses how to trail ride, but also take the more experienced horses on tougher trails."
Kayaking from riverside camps: The Licking River provides gentle paddling opportunities from camps like The Ole Cornfield. One camper shared, "We went kayaking (they have a kayaking service on site) and played in the river. Far enough away from the road that we didn't hear any noise, just the river running." The campground offers shuttle services upstream so you can float back to your site.
Climbing and hiking access: Several campgrounds serve as basecamps for rock climbing adventures. Lago Linda Hideaway is popular with climbers visiting Red River Gorge. A reviewer mentioned, "Close enough to the beautiful hikes and climbs of the area, and far enough to feel really private and woodsy."
What campers like
Peaceful riverside camping: Waterfront sites offer natural soundscapes and cooling effects during summer months. At The Ole Cornfield, a camper noted, "The tent sites are very cool. They have a large flat grassy area with lots of sites right beside the river. The RV sites are new, drive through and flat, with electric and water."
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Campgrounds in the region often receive praise for their upkeep. One visitor to S-Tree Campground commented, "Bathrooms were clean. Campsite was clean. Campground very well maintained. So peaceful!"
Spacious sites with privacy: Many equestrian-focused campgrounds feature larger sites to accommodate trailers and corrals. A camper at Twin Knobs Recreation Area shared, "The campground is in a wooded area and each campsite is separate by woods from the nearby sites. There are shower and toilet facilities close by."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most horse campgrounds near Irvine operate only during warmer months. Red Hill Horse Camp is specifically open May through October, while White Sulphur requires campers to provide their own water and containment systems.
Horse-specific facilities vary: While some camps have dedicated equestrian amenities, others require more self-sufficiency. At Daniel Boone National Forest White Sulphur Horse Camp, a visitor noted, "We try and use horse camps when traveling in larger groups since they have more space and are not always used. The place was clean, restroom facilities were stocked with TP."
Cell service limitations: Reception can be spotty throughout the region. The same camper at White Sulphur Horse Camp added, "There was slight cell service for Verizon & AT&T, enough for maybe text but not very consistent."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation opportunities: Lakes and rivers provide family-friendly activities. A camper at The Ole Cornfield shared, "My grandkids loved playing in the river catching crawdads and tadpoles. Perfect for wading."
Beginner-friendly trail options: Some areas offer easier trail loops suitable for less experienced riders. S-Tree Campground has "Multiple trials to venture on. The campsites are huge with available fire pits and restrooms."
Recreation beyond riding: Logan-Hubble County Park offers additional family activities. A visitor mentioned, "Beautiful medium size lake in the park plus standard county park amenities. Does have a disc golf course."
Tips from RVers
Site sizing and access: RV campers should verify access routes and site dimensions. At Lago Linda Hideaway, one RVer advised, "The area for RV's is a little tight in the trees and probably won't accommodate an extremely large vehicle. However, there is a huge open field on further into the camp that should be fairly easy to turn around in."
Hookup availability: Water and electric connections vary between campgrounds. A camper at Twin Knobs noted, "Our campsite (A-30) drained the rain off really well. The site is level and graveled. We had plenty of room on the campsite. We ended up putting up 4 popups because of the rain."
Reservation recommendations: Popular equestrian campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. A visitor suggested, "This is one of the most popular sites and we booked it 6 months in advance."
