Equestrian camping near Carrollton, Ohio offers access to rolling hills and forested terrain across southeastern Ohio's Appalachian foothills. The region maintains 30+ miles of interconnected bridle paths through Fernwood State Forest and surrounding areas. Fall temperatures average 45-65°F, making September through mid-November ideal for trail riding with reduced insect activity.
What to Do
Horseback trail connections: At Hidden Hollow Campground — Fernwood State Forest, riders can access multiple trail networks within the state forest system. "There are a number of sites set up in a circle, the initial sites are better suited for RVs while the sites along the back of the loop are flatter and can accommodate a tent," notes a visitor who found the experience "very luxurious" compared to backcountry camping.
Fishing opportunities: The lakes and streams near Beaver Creek State Park Campground provide good bass fishing conditions. One camper reported, "Bass fishing is really fun because we caught a few nice ones!" Another visitor had "some luck fishing at the Canoe/Kayak area in the South East area of the park close to the Group Camp Sites."
Water recreation: When water levels permit, creeks and lakes throughout the region support kayaking. "The creek that runs through the area is beautiful and there were many people fishing along the way. Kayaking is also very popular among the creek, but the water was too low this time," notes a Beaver Creek visitor.
What Campers Like
Quiet atmosphere: Most equestrian camps maintain distance from main roads. At Salt Fork State Park Campground, one camper noted, "The change of season brings a very different atmosphere to the park and the people staying in it. The facilities are still well maintained and the washer and dryer I'm pretty sure are older than me but they do the job."
Stargazing conditions: The region's rural setting creates good night sky viewing. A camper at Beaver Creek State Park mentioned, "The sky was dark enough to see far more stars than you'd see near any larger towns or cities. To cap it off, we laid in our tent dozing off to the sounds of owls and coyotes!"
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites for horse trailers and equipment. At Salt Fork, visitors appreciate that "the sites accommodate trailers with adequate parking areas for vehicles and equipment" and that "majority are large and level."
What You Should Know
Limited water access: Bring water containers and extension hoses. A camper at West Branch State Park Campground noted, "First the water fill is on an incline so when our tank was 'full' pulling away from fill station it was really only 2/3 full. This was okay for a short weekend but not good planning from who ever designed the park."
Site selection importance: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "You need to be careful when booking, especially if you are trying to pitch a tent, as some sites are quite sloped," warns a camper about Jefferson Lake. Another visitor at West Branch adds, "Also our site was labeled slight slope. That was a joke. We were only off 2 inches side to side but front to back we had to lower the front 15 inches."
Seasonal considerations: Fall offers optimal trail conditions. Salt Fork visitors note that "the Trailhead's located throughout the area give you a good workout on the hilly terrain and offer some awesome fall scenery." However, be prepared for occasional overnight temperature drops: "The weather is a bit chillier then last time and the campground very quiet."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground proximity: Choose sites near recreation areas for convenience. A Jefferson Lake State Park Campground visitor mentioned, "Tucked away in southeastern Ohio is a gem of a park for camping, hiking and horse camping. Clean water, restrooms, playground, sand volleyball and basketball court."
Equestrian programs: Some facilities offer guided rides for beginners. At Canton / East Sparta KOA Holiday - Bear Creek Ranch, a family reported, "Took the family there and loved it. It's clean and quiet. Took the kids on the horse ride and they loved it." Another visitor notes it as "our favorite KOA! I have 4 kids and return at least 1x per year. Great family owned KOA. Horseback riding on site."
Nature exploration: Many parks feature historic structures and natural features along trails. A Beaver Creek visitor shared, "The best part about the area was the history that surrounds it. There is a pioneer village near the park office that offers some picnicking areas around it. It also has original buildings from the pioneer days."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Bring extra leveling blocks for the region's uneven terrain. A Jefferson Lake visitor noted, "Only 5 electric sites. Very clean pit toilets. Well maintained campground. A few equine sites. Only 2 electric eq sites. Electric is a little far behind pad. We almost needed extension cord."
Tank filling challenges: Extension hoses are essential at most equestrian campgrounds. The same visitor warned, "All water full up towers only have those spigots that are not threaded. Had to hold hose over spigot about 20 min to fill 35 gal. We were later told by staff the maintenance building had a threaded spigot."
Site size limitations: Check campground maps carefully before reserving. One West Branch camper advised, "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly! Check in is very easy as you pass the camp store on your way in. All campsites have a fire ring and picnic table."
