Equestrian trails in the Athens region wind through diverse Appalachian foothills terrain with elevations ranging from 650 to 1000 feet. The Wayne National Forest offers over 300 miles of multi-use trails accessible to horse riders throughout most of the year. Trail conditions can vary dramatically after rainfall, with clay soil areas becoming particularly challenging for horses during wet periods.
What to do
Trail riding at Burr Oak State Park: The bridle trails connect to multiple loops suitable for day rides through forested hills. A camper noted, "We have camped at both Dock 3 and Dock 2 with our dog, those are the only two areas that allow pets. At Dock 3 we were right on the water but dock 2 is probably 200 yards from the water."
Scenic riding at Zaleski State Forest: The extensive trail network takes riders through diverse terrain with distinctive rock formations. "There are a great deal of interesting rock formations to check out as well as a few good overlook areas. I highly recommend taking the short connector trail on the south loop to cut over to the Moonville Rail Trail," one rider shared.
Lake activities near camp: Many horse camping areas provide access to nearby lakes for fishing or relaxation after trail riding. At Lake Hope, "you can enjoy a day playing in the water, eating and ice cream and sun bathing. Please no furry friends at the local beach though."
What campers like
Historical sites along trails: The Old Stone Church Campground provides access to historical features along riding routes. "A short distance further down the road, just after it turns to gravel, at the Old Stone Church trailhead, there are grassy places to back in smaller campers/RVs."
Peaceful horse camping experiences: The quiet nature of many equestrian sites appeals to riders seeking solitude. "Easy pull-thru site for our small travel trailer. Each pull-thru is set-up for horses, but RVs are allowed (according to NFS website)."
Modern amenities at Palmerosa Horse & Hike Campground: Recent improvements have significantly upgraded equestrian facilities. "The new owners of the Palmerosa Campground have put a lot of time and money into this campground! Almost everything has been tore down and rebuilt. The new shower house at the office is great! You have your own shower, toilet and vanity in a locked room!"
What you should know
Trail preparation is essential: Wayne National Forest trails require appropriate planning. "The trails criss-cross logging roads a lot but we didn't see any logging/vehicle traffic. The area is more like a park than a forest since there are so many amenities."
Seasonal considerations: Off-season visits offer solitude but reduced services. "Stayed one night. OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season. Pit toilet closed for winter."
Water management on trails: Burr Oak State Park Campground trails can become challenging in wet conditions. "The hiking trails are nice but very muddy after the rain. Lots of geocasches in the area on the trails in Wayne national forest."
Tips for camping with families
Plan shorter ride loops: Families with younger riders should choose shorter routes. "We ended up meeting our guide kitty friend at camp 1- most likely dumped which sucks but very friendly. Besides Kitty and 2 other groups i saw no one else was here which was nice especially during a holiday weekend."
Educational opportunities: Lake Hope State Park Campground offers wildlife programming suitable for children. "The naturalists feed hummingbirds at the nature center. They pull the feeders for awhile leading up to a 'Feed the Hummingbirds' program. So cool! The birds come right to you!"
Shower facilities vary: When camping with children, check shower accessibility. "Bathhouse had good pressure and hot water in mens bathhouse 1 but womens had low pressure, bath house 2 had low to no pressure at times, but we're very clean and nice."
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Strouds Run State Park Campground requires navigation awareness. "Be aware that Google maps doesn't send you to the campground but to a parking lot at the Lake (25 min detour). So make sure you follow the State Park signs."
Horse trailer parking options: RV sites with horse trailer accommodations are limited. "The old horse stalls have been torn down and 28 new covered stalls have been built! They are amazing and plenty if room for larger horses. They have 14 water and electric sites with plenty of shade trees."
Campsite selection for larger rigs: Choose locations carefully when bringing horses and RVs. "RV sites were very close together. Site required minimal leveling. We were on like a hilltop and overlooked lower level RV circle."
