Equestrian enthusiasts seeking horse campgrounds near Clarksville, Missouri have several options within a reasonable driving distance. The area's rolling terrain and extensive trail networks make it particularly suitable for horseback riding, with campgrounds situated near the Mississippi River at elevations between 400-800 feet. Seasonal considerations are important, as summer humidity can affect both horses and riders.
What to do
Trail riding through conservation areas: Daniel Boone Conservation Area offers extensive riding opportunities with well-maintained trails. "There's some stocked ponds to fish in and trails to explore. We rode the Katy Trail which is only 3.5 miles down the hill from here," notes Erik R. at Daniel Boone Conservation Area.
Kayaking on nearby lakes: Many campgrounds provide water access for when you want a break from horseback riding. "This campground has a lake you can rent kayaks for. They have a small store at the check in booth. It also has an accessible fishing dock that is covered," explains Kayla S. about Cuivre River State Park Campground.
Archery practice: Some facilities offer designated areas for target practice. Frank Russell Campground provides "an archery range and equestrian site," according to Lindsey C., making it a good option for groups with varied interests.
Fishing between rides: Stock up on bait and tackle before arriving. At Siloam Springs State Park Campground, "Great hiking trails for all ages. Nice hiking loop for backpacking camping. Had a great time taking a scout troop out on the lake. I actually haven't fished it much but everyone around here loves to catch trout there," shares Elisha P.
What campers like
Secluded camping areas: Horse campers appreciate privacy when settling in with their animals. "Gravel roads to the campsites are well maintained. Campsites are clean and well maintained. Maps are okay, but not the best. You could easily get an RV or camper around the roads," reports Timmy C. about Daniel Boone Conservation Area.
Well-marked equestrian trails: Clear signage helps when navigating with horses. At Cuivre River State Park Campground, "This is a perfect place to enjoy with the family. Plenty of gorgeous campsites and a lake to swim and kayak! And if you need a place to camp with your horse they have an entire equestrian section," mentions J K.
Multi-use trails: Trails that accommodate different activities provide options for mixed groups. "I love this camground! They have great hikes throughout the area. You can rent kayaks, canoes, and boats and fish in many locations. Great for horse back riders too!" says Hannah S. about Siloam Springs State Park Campground.
Accessible water features: "There is a little pond with wildlife like rabbits and frogs. You get there after about 5 miles on a well maintained, wide gravel road," notes Tee C. about the surroundings at Daniel Boone Conservation Area.
What you should know
Primitive conditions: Many horse-friendly sites have limited amenities. "This is entirely primitive camping. No services at all but the grounds are neat and clean. We camped in the RV area. There were a couple of other tents and a popup and aside from the popup running his generator 24hrs a day, it was very quiet and relaxing," explains Erik R. about Daniel Boone Conservation Area.
Seasonal availability: Check operating dates before planning your trip. Indian Creek Campground is open "Mar 29 - Nov 17," which covers the main riding season but closes during winter months.
Bug preparation: Ticks and mosquitoes can be problematic for horses and humans alike. "Had a blast here. Lots of hiking and amazing trails. Very much a mosquito paradise," warns Josh S. about Indian Creek Campground.
Trailer parking: Confirm space availability for vehicles with horse trailers. "Nice new concrete sites with fire pit, full hookup. Great trails and fishing lake, with concrete sidewalk and benches around it to make fishing easily accessible," notes Beyond All about Frank Russell Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Safety around horses: Establish clear rules for children near equestrian areas. At Frank Russell Campground, "Nice stay" is possible even with kids as Jan K. reports, "This was a 1 night stay while getting to the east coast. Most impressed by how perfectly level our paved parking pad was. We didn't have to level the rv or even unhook it from the truck."
Alternative activities: Plan non-riding options for family members. "This campground has a lake you can rent kayaks for. They have a small store at the check in booth. It also has an accessible fishing dock that is covered. The sites for full hook ups are separate from the other sites," explains Kayla S. about Cuivre River State Park.
Educational opportunities: Use conservation areas for nature learning. "A friend discovered this gem a while back and we now frequent it. Super inexpensive for the space that you get. Free firewood. We have only stayed at the largest site as it has good fishing and a place for us to launch our paddleboards and kayaks," shares Eric about McCully Heritage Project.
Weather preparation: The region experiences significant seasonal variations. "Campground is beautiful and very woodsy. We saw bunnies hopping around and when we first arrived to our site a deer was grazing nearby, such a bonus!" reports Maria E. about Cuivre River State Park.
Tips from RVers
Spacing for large rigs: Look for campgrounds that explicitly accommodate horse trailers. "I stayed one night in the RV campsite. There was only one other camper. The grass had been mowed recently so the path around the pond was easily walkable," shares Art Z. about Daniel Boone Conservation Area.
Level parking considerations: Check site descriptions for information about level pads. "My only concern is the photos of the sites are a bit deceiving. I thought my site, #6, was dead level. While it was level side to side, it had about 6" of slope front to back. Not a problem for me but some campers may find it a bit much," advises Doug W. about Frank Russell Campground.
Hookup availability: Many equestrian sites offer limited services. "There are no services here and no hook ups, but it's free. The primitive tent sites are spread out along the main road through the conservation area, which means that in the daytime you will get road noise and dust, but its pretty quiet at night," explains Annie C. about Daniel Boone Conservation Area.
Generator rules: Be aware of noise restrictions at horse campgrounds. "Great place to stay, doesn't seem to have a lot of hiking trails. They do have nice secluded little spots mostly all electric. Bathhouse is pretty a long walk, but big and really clean. only 20.00 per night," notes Lindsey C. about Frank Russell Campground.
