Daniel Boone National Forest offers several equestrian campgrounds near Manchester, Kentucky with trails extending throughout the forest. The area sits at elevations between 700-1200 feet with limestone rock formations and mixed hardwood forests. Summer temperatures can reach the 90s with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder camping conditions in the 60-70°F range.
What to do
Trail riding with river views: Little Lick Campground provides immediate access to Nathan McClure Trailhead right from the campground. "Up a forestry road at the top of a mountain! Sleeping with the bears!" reports camper Jadon B. The campground offers several challenging trails in the area for horses and trail bikes.
Stargazing opportunities: Horse camps in the national forest provide exceptional night sky viewing away from light pollution. At Little Lick, camper Shelly S. notes there are "Dark and starry skies, quiet and woodsy" conditions that make for excellent stargazing sessions during clear nights.
Swimming and fishing: Lago Linda Hideaway offers water recreation alongside horse camping. "Since it was so warm, we took a dip in the lake. Our site was spacious and pretty, with plenty of room for our two tents and a hammock," notes Lena L. The site has a small lake with a dock for swimming during warmer months.
What campers like
Large, open campsites: Equestrian campers appreciate the spacious sites at these horse-friendly campgrounds. At S-Tree Campground, Wayne H. mentions, "The campsites are huge with available fire pits and restrooms. First come first serve basis." These larger sites accommodate trailers alongside tents.
Budget-friendly options: Many horse camps in the area offer affordable rates. According to Iris L. at Barren Fork Horse Camp, "The price of the campground was $8 for one night/$12 for two nights." This makes extended trail riding trips more economical for equestrians.
Well-marked access roads: Finding remote horse camps can sometimes be challenging, but campers note good signage in the area. At Little Lick Horse Camp, Shelly S. advises, "Off Ky Rt 80 in Daniel Boone National Forest, keep following the tent signs, they will get you to Little Lick Campground." Clear directional signs help first-time visitors locate these more remote camping areas.
What you should know
Primitive facilities: Most horse camps are basic with limited amenities. At Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground, you'll find "a clean bathroom and shower, water, and vending machines with emergency supplies and snacks," according to Desirae H., but many other sites have no facilities.
Weather considerations: The area can experience significant rainfall, affecting campsite conditions. At Barren Fork Horse Camp, summer heat can be intense with "no electric hookups," as noted by Chris F.
Road conditions: Access roads to horse camps are typically gravel with varying maintenance levels. Shelly S. notes about Little Lick, "You will drive and drive and drive...and drive on the gravel road. However the road is good and the signage will get you there!"
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with water access: Children enjoy swimming options during summer camping trips. At Tranquility Creek, Maurice N. describes it as a "Quiet, clean place to rest." The creekside setting provides natural entertainment for children.
Look for campgrounds with open play areas: Several horse camps feature large open fields suitable for family games and activities. Sarah H. from Lago Linda notes, "The trail around the lake was very nice, short but hilly so a good morning walk."
Pack for ticks: Insect protection is essential when camping with children in this region. Lena L. warns, "I will say we found a few lone star ticks (dead thanks to her prevention) on our dog. Just as a heads up to campers. Always do your tick checks!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Most horse campgrounds can accommodate RVs, but site selection matters. Heather K. notes about Lago Linda, "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."
Generator guidelines vary: At S-Tree Campground, RVers enjoy spacious sites, but Iris L. cautions at Barren Fork, "There are no rules on generator use, so beware that your neighbor may run the generator all day and night." Check individual campground policies before arrival.
Limited hookup availability: Most equestrian campgrounds offer primitive camping with few or no hookups. Andy M. notes S-Tree has "several sets of vault toilets, but no running water nor trash pickup," typical for many horse camps in the area.
