Equestrian camping near Lancaster, Kentucky provides direct access to extensive trail systems through Daniel Boone National Forest. Located in the eastern part of the state at approximately 1,000 feet elevation, this area features a humid subtropical climate with distinct seasons. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F with higher humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions favorable for horse camping and trail rides.
What to do
Trail riding at S-Tree Campground: Access multiple riding trails through wooded terrain in Daniel Boone National Forest. "Multiple trials to venture on. The campsites are huge with available fire pits and restrooms. First come first serve basis. This is a free campsite with no electricity available," notes Wayne H. at S-Tree Campground.
Attend equestrian events: Visit Kentucky Horse Park for scheduled competitions and exhibitions. According to Jeff C., Logan-Hubble County Park offers "a beautiful medium size lake in the park plus standard county park amenities. Does have a disc golf course" for days when you're not riding.
Explore forest riding trails: Little Lick Campground connects directly to trail systems. Tombo T. describes Little Lick Campground as "Campers paradise, with a FREE campground. Campsites are spacious depending on which one you get, and well spread out. Be wary of shy bears and bobcats."
What campers like
Wide, level sites for trailers: Taylorsville Lake State Park features spacious campsites suitable for horse trailers. "We camped there in July for my son's birthday party. We were near the restroom facilities which were very clean. The camping area was recently mowed. Plenty of parking for guests and tents," reports Heather K. at Taylorsville Lake State Park Campground.
Trail variety for different skill levels: Experienced riders appreciate challenging trails while beginners find easier options. Jill R. explains, "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."
Quiet, wooded settings: Many campsites offer seclusion and natural surroundings. "Dark and starry skies, quiet and woodsy...The sites are big enough for more than one tent or hammock," writes Shelly S. about Daniel Boone National Forest Little Lick Horse Camp.
What you should know
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Many horse-friendly campgrounds lack amenities. Andy M. notes that S-Tree Campground has "several sets of vault toilets, but no running water nor trash pickup, even though they have built a pad for a dumpster."
Accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds require travel on gravel roads. Andrew G. warns, "The northern road in isn't all that bad, but the south road is what I NEEDED to use to get to my various destinations, and it was a rough one."
Seasonal variations: Weather affects trail conditions significantly. "We stayed at this beautiful park in early November. There were only a few other campers so it was peaceful and very pretty. We enjoyed the lake views and fall colors everywhere," reports Joey about Green River Lake State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas near campsites. Heather K. mentions, "Playground was close and perfect for everyone to go run and play" at Taylorsville Lake State Park.
Swimming options: Lakes provide alternatives to horseback riding. According to Carol, "Check in was easy and friendly, a fair number of open sites, the lake is really pretty, the showers were pretty decent."
Educational opportunities: History-focused sites complement outdoor activities. Lisa S. describes My Old Kentucky Home State Park as having a "beautiful mansion to tour. Amphitheater open during the summer. A great family-friendly place to visit."
Tips from RVers
Site selection concerns: Some campgrounds have challenging access for larger vehicles. M&P M. caution, "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."
Hookup availability varies: Check specific amenities before booking. Doug and Terri C. note about Green River Lake State Park, "Easy check in and nice level sites close to the water. The newer section has very few trees for shade. The older section had plenty of shade and nice sites."
Shade considerations: Tree cover differs significantly between campsites. Bethany W. advises that sites are "a bit uneven and water and electric is about 40 feet away. Make sure to have levelers to handle 7+ inches. Site 28 seems to be the best. Site 30 is also very nice."
