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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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.
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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.
Tips from RVers
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.
