Taylorsville Lake State Park offers both primitive and developed camping options for horse enthusiasts. The primitive camping area features multiple trail access points with sites that accommodate both camping equipment and horse trailers. The main equestrian campground connects directly to over 24 miles of dedicated horse trails through varied terrain. Most equestrian sites at Taylorsville include pull-through access specifically designed for horse trailers, with sites positioned for convenient trail entry. Equine campers can expect level, well-maintained gravel pads that support larger rigs. The campground maintains good spacing between sites, providing privacy for campers and their horses despite its popularity among equestrians and anglers.
What to do
Fishing at Horine Reservation: Head to Jefferson Memorial Forest where fishing opportunities abound at the nearby stocked public lake. "Love hitting the bourbon trail and being able to head back into nature! This place afforded us the ability to enjoy the city and then kick back at a nice scenic spot," writes Molly G. in her review of Jefferson Memorial Forest Campground.
Swimming at Deam Lake: Cool off during summer months at the swimming beach. "The beach was fun to swim and water was clean. They have boats for rent which are fun and paddle around the lake," notes Angela F. about Deam Lake State Recreation Area.
Hiking technical trails: Challenge yourself on the Two Rivers Trail near Indian-Celina lakes. "We hiked extensively and though this is definitely not mountainous terrain it will give you a work out. A lot of cool rock formations and wild life to be seen, then there's the tick's," warns Shelly S. at Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground.
Bourbon tourism: Visit nearby distilleries while camping in the region. "Loved hitting the bourbon trail and being able to head back into nature!" mentions Molly G. about camping at Jefferson Memorial Forest. The area's proximity to major bourbon distilleries makes it ideal for day trips.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many equestrian campers appreciate the spacious layout. "My husband and I wanted a secluded quiet camp as we also have our pup who gets a little too excited around strangers and other dogs. We got that in #7 camp in north loop. We felt like we own the place!" shares Rica Z. about Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses enhance the camping experience. "We stayed at site P02... These 25 campsites share a bathhouse, which was very clean and quiet," notes Cassandra C. about Taylorsville Lake State Park Campground.
Lake access: Water recreation opportunities complement equestrian trails. "Beautiful in the Fall!" shares Lauren M. about Deam Lake, adding that there's "great water for swimming/kayaking/canoeing."
Direct trail connections: Horse campers value sites with immediate trail access. "Trails in the area vary from 1.5 to 13.0 miles through gorgeous mixed forest of old and new growth deciduous and coniferous hardwoods," mentions Robert P. when describing the trail system.
What you should know
Tick prevention: Essential for both humans and horses in this region. "I thought LBL, KY was bad, the tick's here seem like the Infantry, swarming the objective from all side's. Bring your bug stuff!" warns Shelly S. about the Hoosier National Forest area.
Seasonal variations: Fall brings spectacular colors but different challenges. "Due to fall, the sites seem much closer than they are due to the thinning foliage," notes Robert P. about camping in the Jefferson Memorial Forest area.
Airplane noise: Some campgrounds experience air traffic. "This is a great little well-kept campground. Unfortunately it's in the departure path of Louisville's airport, so be prepared for once-a-minute takeoffs," warns Derek P. about Jefferson Memorial Forest Campground.
Limited staffing: Plan accordingly for amenities. "The main overall issue is the lack of staffing... we got in shortly after 7PM and there was no ranger or staff to be found to get firewood," reports Justin S. about Taylorsville Lake State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween activities: Fall camping offers special events. "We go every fall with our entire family to enjoy the Halloween activities. The campers all go all out and let the kids trick or treat. There is even a group who does a haunted house and it is so fun!" shares Amber S. about Otter Creek Park Campground.
Playground access: Select sites near play areas for convenience. "We stayed in 220. It was nice to be right by the playground and bathrooms (which is what we wanted)," advises Kelsey R. about O'Bannon Woods State Park.
Nature center visits: Educational opportunities abound. "Nature Center was basic but well prepared with critters and educational items," reports Kyle about O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground.
Trail difficulty considerations: Choose appropriate routes for children. "The Lake View trail was a good and tough hike. If you take young ones, be sure they will be self reliant. It can be very steep in some areas," cautions Tom J. about trails near Deam Lake.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Many sites require preparation. "Sites are a bit uneven and water and electric is about 40 feet away. Make sure to have levelers to handle 7+ inches," advises Bethany W. about My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground.
Narrow roads: Navigate with caution in some campgrounds. "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," warns M&P M. about My Old Kentucky Home State Park.
Utilities location: Plan for adequate cord and hose length. "No water at the site though. Throughout the campground are potable water spigots that you can hook up to and add water to your tank," notes Derek J. about O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground.
Site selection: Review individual site details before booking. "Site 20 is one to avoid. It's at the corner of the loop, across from a dumpster, right next to the bathroom AND the dump station is practically in the site," cautions Chase G. about camping at My Old Kentucky Home State Park.
