Horse trails near Caldwell, Ohio wind through rural, wooded terrain with rolling hills throughout the eastern portion of the state. The region offers several equestrian camping areas with trail access within a 50-mile radius of Caldwell. Camping facilities range from primitive sites with limited amenities to areas with designated horse-friendly accommodations and riding trails that connect to larger trail networks.
What to do
Trail riding at Wayne National Forest: Located within driving distance of Caldwell, this area offers extensive trails for horseback riding. "Being a bit of a history buff, I was fascinated by the museum...how the local town was created during the oil boom and then destroyed by fire...of an enormous wilderness mansion that sat where the campground now sits," notes Dave V. at Mountwood Park Family Campground.
Fishing at area lakes: Several parks near Caldwell provide lake access for fishing. "The lake is pretty beautiful. The trails are well marked and the horse trails go on for miles and miles," writes Annie V. about Salt Fork State Park Campground.
Hiking through wooded areas: The region offers various trail systems for hikers. "The trails are worth it though! Lots of mountain bikers and trail runners frequent the trails," says Lucille W. about Strouds Run State Park.
What campers like
Quiet riding environments: Many equestrian trails near Caldwell see limited traffic. "Very quiet campground with little to no other riders around," notes Janessa S. at Blue Rock State Park Campground.
Lake recreation options: Multiple parks feature lakes for boating and fishing. "This is an awsome state park. Personally, it is definitely a favorite and I think it is one of the best in the state. Large lake allows for all types of boating," says Jay B. about Salt Fork State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area supports diverse wildlife. "Just driving in saw turkeys and 'turkets':) and two 6 point bucks. You can hike, swim, boat, bike and horseback ride," shares Shelly S. about Dillon State Park Campground.
What you should know
Campsite variations: Quality and features differ between parks. "The primitive tent sites ($20 nightly) are less than desirable and more of an afterthought...and I'm being gracious. There is patchy tall grass, dirt and rocks with no leveled areas," warns Dave V. about Mountwood Park.
Seasonal challenges: Weather impacts trail conditions. "Lots of geocaching opportunities. Athens has a great deal of places to eat, nightlife, shows and any supplies you may need," mentions Leon H. about Strouds Run State Park Campground.
Reservation requirements: Some parks fill quickly during peak seasons. "The park features wash racks for horses, which campers regularly use after trail rides. The campground tends to remain busy throughout the riding season, so advance reservations are recommended."
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Several parks offer swimming areas. "The campground was 80% empty, very quiet except for some late-night traffic on the county road nearby, loud pickup trucks. The park is well cared for but is showing its age," shares Brian M. about Salt Fork State Park.
Playground access: Look for family-friendly amenities. "Across the street, the park portion of this campground has a dog park, playground, historical site and pond for fishing," notes Seána B. about Mountwood Park.
Educational opportunities: Some parks feature historical exhibits. "Strouds is a beautiful park for trail running, during all seasons, I love it! Also great spot for kayaking!" mentions Anna S. about Strouds Run State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds offer varied RV accommodations. "We were on like a hilltop and overlooked lower level RV circle. Seems like many on lower level were part of a large group and had dogs and that barked endlessly!" cautions Linda B. about Dillon State Park.
Water and hookup availability: Services vary between parks. "Sites are only rented in person once you arrive, they have clear instructions at the entrance. Sites were nice and level, but a bit on the smaller side," explains Isaac K. about Burr Oak State Park Campground.
Rig size limitations: Some horse campgrounds have space constraints. "Great great campground plenty to Joe we took the horses had a blast," shares Cheryl C. about Walkabout Creek Horsemans Camp.
