Kinderhook Horse Trail provides primitive camping for equestrian enthusiasts in Wayne National Forest. The trailhead camping area features two primitive sites with picnic tables and access to both the Kinderhook and Paw Paw trails. Local visitors frequently come during daylight hours with horse trailers, creating regular traffic that typically clears by evening. A manual water pump near the vault toilet allows for watering horses, while parking for regular vehicles is located approximately 100 yards from the restroom.
What to do
Trail riding: At Blue Rock State Park Campground, equestrian campers can access multiple trails directly from the camping area. "Very quiet campground with little to no other riders around," notes Janessa S., who appreciated the secluded trail system.
Water recreation: Burr Oak State Park Campground offers numerous water activities during warmer months. "Campers can rent pontoons or enjoy a day kayaking the lake, or swimming on the beach," explains Larissa C. The park maintains a swimming beach and boat rentals for those seeking time on the water.
Historical exploration: Wayne National Forest contains interesting historical sites near the horse trails. At Burr Oak, visitors can learn about local history: "The lodge has been remodeled and is absolutely beautiful and the food at the restaurant is delicious," reports Larissa C., highlighting amenities beyond the trails.
What campers like
Privacy options: While Kinderhook Horse Trail can become busy with day visitors, Lake Hope State Park Campground offers more secluded camping. "Each time I have stayed at Lake Hope State Park, I have marveled at why there are only a few stray campers in a state park of 190 sites," writes Dave V., noting the peaceful atmosphere.
Clean facilities: Travelers appreciate the maintained restrooms at many of the horse campgrounds near Clifton, Ohio. "The bathrooms were clean," reports Anna S. about her stay at Strouds Run State Park Campground, a factor important to many equestrian campers.
Natural surroundings: The forests surrounding these campgrounds provide habitat for wildlife. "We took a couple of the hikes down by the lake and it was great," Kevin F. shares about Lake Hope State Park, where wooded sites offer shade and natural settings for camping.
What you should know
Site conditions: Terrain at these horse campgrounds varies significantly. Daniel at Lake Hope notes: "Camp sites are very small and very unlevel, had to raise back of camper and put front about a 1/4" off ground to get close to level."
Limited amenities: Many equestrian campgrounds offer basic facilities only. Annika E. describes Kinderhook: "Parking for regular cars is 100 yards before restroom (the others are for horse trailers only). Close to the restroom there's a picnic table, tentspots and a manual water pump."
Seasonal considerations: Weather affects trail conditions throughout the year. At Salt Fork State Park Campground, Annie V. advises: "The lake is pretty beautiful. The trails are well marked and the horse trails go on for miles and miles so if you have horses this is a great place to trail ride."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Families can enjoy designated swimming areas at several parks. Sarah G. recommends Burr Oak: "They have a nice beach and the lake is awesome. There are adequate shower facilities."
Nature programs: Some parks offer educational activities for children. At Lake Hope, Chris C. shared a unique experience: "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!"
Group camping options: For larger family gatherings, dedicated group sites provide more space. Sarah G. notes about Burr Oak: "This is a great place to camp! Very spacious with lots of fire rings and picnic tables. The Blue Trail goes through here and provides a fun hike."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should research site dimensions before arrival. At Dillon State Park Campground, Brian B. advises: "There is reasonable space between the sites to allow for some privacy and to allow you to spread out. Area C is the most secluded area. All RV sites have 50A/30A electric."
Leveling challenges: Many campsites in the region require leveling equipment. "Many sites are not level. Many sites have NO shade. Only Electric available at each site," cautions Gary O. about Dillon State Park.
Utility access: Not all equestrian campgrounds offer full hookups. Joe B. notes about Kinderhook Horse Trail: "Has no flush vault toilet. No hook-ups of any kind. I did not camp here due to severe weather warnings. With att had 2 to 3 bars cell service."
