German Bridge - Dewey Lake offers horse boarding in an on-site barn for an additional $15 fee, making it a practical option for equestrian camping near Elkhorn City. The campground provides primitive tent and RV sites with basic amenities including picnic tables, drinking water, fire rings, and bathroom facilities with showers. While lacking electrical hookups, the campground maintains a clean, rustic atmosphere that appeals to riders seeking a more traditional camping experience. Sites are positioned close to the backwaters of Dewey Lake, providing convenient water access for activities. Campers report that the area is better suited for experienced outdoor enthusiasts rather than those seeking modern conveniences.
The location provides excellent access to surrounding riding trails and natural areas. Dewey Lake offers kayaking and small boat opportunities directly from the camping area, allowing riders to combine water recreation with trail experiences. Chief Logan State Park Campground, approximately 1.5 hours from Elkhorn City, provides additional equestrian-friendly options with more developed facilities including electrical hookups, sewer connections, and water access. Both locations are surrounded by forested areas that provide scenic trail riding opportunities. While Jenny Wiley State Park has camping facilities nearby, horse owners should note that reviews indicate no designated horse corrals at this location, though the park does have hiking paths and is known for wildlife viewing opportunities including elk.
"The park’s along the lake and has hiking, birding, a restaurant, and a nice surprise: an open air theatre with shows outside all summer."
"I lived in the Dewey Lake-JWSP area with family members, until 2002. Currently, I live about 10-15 minutes away from JWSP and visit the park at least once a month, depending on the weather."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $30 - $35 / night
"For an extra fee ($15 I think, we don't have horses) you could board your horse in the barn. Campsites are a reasonable price with no hookups, $15."
"this campsite is not for the new camper, very limited on the nicer things at a campsite. but easy access to the lake. And great view"
"Staying at The Cliffhanger Ranch places you in a quiet area surrounded by forests and a small downtown nearby, perfect for adventuring around a new area. "
"What makes this place great is that the entrance is directly across from the Jefferson National Forrest."
from $20 - $35 / night
"No water or electricity at the primitive campground, but you’re within walking distance of the main bathhouse which was nice and clean during my stay. "
"There was creek nearby and walking paths all over. We went over to the lodge and was able to swim in the pool and hot tub as part of the price of our campsite."
from $16 / night
GuideSmall sites but full hookups. Many amenities. multiple pools in the area, mini golf, animal exhibit although closed when we were there. Both trails we went on weren’t maintained well but the area was pretty.
GuideChief Logan has a lot of interesting things to see, including an outdoor animal exhibit, a lodge, a pool, a theatre, and a museum all close together.
Our site was full hook up and very level. There was creek nearby and walking paths all over. We went over to the lodge and was able to swim in the pool and hot tub as part of the price of our campsite. There was solar event with super rare aurora light show for this part of the world while we were there.
ScoutRoads in campground are rough in places. Electrical boxes are in rough shape at some sites. 30 amp kept tripping the breaker. WiFi does not work. Several sites have full hookup but sewer hookups need to be repaired and water hookups are far away.
GuideBeautiful, quiet spot. The staff was very easy to work with and very friendly. The wildlife exhibit is a fun detour ($2/person). We saw a water slide, putt-putt, and enjoyed the restaurant at the lodge. They have tours for the local elk there too. The town itself is cute and we enjoyed a date night at the local steakhouse. Great spot, perfect getaway!
TravelerHad a great camping weekend with a buddy at Cliffhanger Ranch. The cabin we stayed in is very cozy and good size for two people. We were able to have a few nice fires at the top of the hill with great views. What makes this place great is that the entrance is directly across from the Jefferson National Forrest. There we were able to kayak at Bark Camp Lake which was not busy at all and hike at Little Stoney Falls. Plenty to do and see in this area. Would highly recommend!
LegendJake from the Dyrt here! Staying at The Cliffhanger Ranch places you in a quiet area surrounded by forests and a small downtown nearby, perfect for adventuring around a new area. Check them out and share of your favorite parts of the trip on the Dyrt!
RangerWe were there on Thursday thru Saturday. Thursday was so nice and quiet and then the weekend crew came in on Friday and it filled up fast. Unfortunately our neighbors were very noisy!!! We stayed in loop A, the other loops had many campers set up for the recent flood victims. Loop A was our favorite and it was close to the lake!
GuideStayed a couple of nights and we had a blast. Hiking right near the campground and lake is not far away at all.
ScoutOur campsite was supposed to be 38’ long but my 28’ camper was all that could fit, barely. Water spigot is far away from the site so I had to go purchase another water hose. Zero cell reception and no wifi. No television reception either. Almost everyone’s site was not flat and took a lot of work to get campers close to level, (watched people pull out after an hour trying to level). No extra parking for vehicles, just drive up into whatever muddy area is around your site. “No outside alcohol” signs everywhere.
Equestrian camping options near Elkhorn City, Kentucky range across several nearby state parks and public lands within the Appalachian foothills. Elevation in this region typically ranges between 800-1,200 feet, creating varied terrain for trail riding. Camping areas often feature forested sites with limited cell reception, making them better suited for visitors seeking a more rustic outdoor experience rather than modern amenities.
Trail riding access: At Chief Logan State Park Campground, riders can explore numerous trails for horses. "There are a variety of shelters and playgrounds scattered throughout the nearly 4,000 acre forest so you can spread out and enjoy the park without feeling like you're fighting any crowds," notes Jennifer B.
Kayaking opportunities: The backwaters at German Bridge - Dewey Lake provide calm water for paddling. "Love getting to take my kayak out on the water, great view of the bridge," writes Leah P., making this spot ideal for combining water activities with horseback riding.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers excellent opportunities to observe native species. Jennifer B. shares about Chief Logan: "Nearly 100 elk have recently been reintroduced in and around Chief Logan State Park. I didn't see any elk during my visit, but I plan a return trip in the fall when naturalist Lauren Cole offers tours during the mating season."
Affordable horse boarding: German Bridge - Dewey Lake provides a practical option for equestrians. "For an extra fee ($15 I think, we don't have horses) you could board your horse in the barn," says Stephanie T., confirming the accessible pricing for overnight horse accommodations.
Secluded camping spots: For those seeking privacy, Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost offers a quiet alternative. Noah O. reports, "Had a great camping weekend with a buddy at Cliffhanger Ranch. The cabin we stayed in is very cozy and good size for two people. We were able to have a few nice fires at the top of the hill with great views."
Lakeside access: Water features enhance the camping experience. "If you looking to get away and you like the company of close campers this place may be for you. It is a small camping area that has everything you need to stay a while. It's right off the back waters of Dewy lake. So great to kayaking or any small boats," notes David O. about German Bridge.
Water quality concerns: Be aware of reported issues with lake conditions at Jenny Wiley State Park Campground. Carrie J. cautions, "There are tons of sites for backcountry camping throughout the park. These are primarily situated around Dewey Lake. Be warned, the lake is gross. People using house boats are known to dump waste directly into the lake."
Limited facilities: Some campgrounds offer more rustic experiences. Leah P. advises about German Bridge - Dewey Lake, "This campsite is not for the new camper, very limited on the nicer things at a campsite. But easy access to the lake. And great view."
Weather preparedness: The region can experience significant rainfall. One camper noted at Jenny Wiley: "It didn't help that there was also 5"-8"+/- rain over the 3 days," describing challenging conditions that created muddy campsites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Elkhorn City, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Elkhorn City, KY is Jenny Wiley State Park Campground with a 3.3-star rating from 15 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Elkhorn City, KY?
TheDyrt.com has all 4 equestrian camping locations near Elkhorn City, KY, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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