Equestrian camping options extend beyond the immediate Farmersville area to several parks within a 40-mile radius. This region of western Ohio features gently rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 700-1,200 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F, while spring and fall typically offer mild 55-70°F weather that's ideal for horseback riding excursions.
What to do
Kayaking at Whitewater Memorial: Access the lake directly from Whitewater Memorial State Park Campground for paddling adventures. "Awesome fishing lake with tons of good spots to fish. We love spending our weekends here," notes Kimberly A., highlighting the multiple water recreation opportunities beyond horseback riding.
Hiking with elevation: The Twin Valley Trail at Dayton Metro Parks offers more challenging terrain than the bridle paths. "There's a great backpacking trail that's challenging and an easy middle meeting place for friends/family from Columbus and Cincinnati that can meet in Dayton Metroparks/Five Rivers - Germantown and take on the TVT challenge, beautiful hike through hilly terrain, and great spots of overlooks," shares Karen K.
Non-motorized lake activities: For a peaceful water experience without engine noise, visit Kiser Lake where motors aren't permitted. "This park is know for the lake that is kayak and canoe friendly since it doesn't allow any kind of boat with a motor. It also features a beach, 2 playgrounds and several hiking trails," reports Andrea F.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Hueston Woods State Park Campground offers generously sized sites for those traveling with horses and camping gear. "We love Hueston Woods! We have been there twice now and tent camp. A lot of the sites are large and have enough space for everything you need!" shares Maddy B.
Halloween festivities: Many parks in the region host special October events. "At Kiser Lake every night there was a movie and you could buy root beer floats for $1!! And the kids loved it," reports Melissa M. about a holiday weekend at Buck Creek State Park Campground.
Full-service amenities: Campers appreciate parks with comprehensive facilities. "All campground sites are paved, level, and clean. Nice bath houses, and playgrounds," notes Jarrod M. about East Fork State Park, making it suitable for equestrian campers needing dependable infrastructure.
What you should know
Bathroom conditions vary: While some parks maintain excellent facilities, others fall short. "Not all loops have their own bath house and the I loop where we stayed was one of them. We used the one in the H Loop. The bathhouses were clean, and the shower had nice hot water, however, it doesn't seem like there were sufficient facilities for how large the campground was," explains Lee D. at East Fork State Park Campground.
Park layout considerations: Some parks have separated recreation and camping areas. "The State Park is on one side of the Lake and the Campground is on the other. There is no public road between the two. The campground is nice but it's an extremely long walking distance to the lake," advises Karen J. about East Fork State Park.
Tree coverage differences: Sites vary significantly in shade availability. "Sites are clean and paved. There is a new shower house that's pretty nice, but the other bathrooms are pretty nasty. For $29 nightly it's a good campground," reports Aaliya B. about Kiser Lake State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for activity-rich parks: Cowan Lake State Park Campground offers varied family-friendly amenities. "The park also had a lending library and walking stick lending program. I thought these were simple but memorable features for this park," shares Kenpocentaur K.
Select sites strategically: Choose locations that balance privacy with convenience. "Bathroom was clean and well stocked through the weekend. Additional vehicles have to pay $3," notes Dori F. about Cowan Lake, providing practical family camping advice.
Plan for educational opportunities: Many parks offer nature programs suitable for young riders and non-riders. "We love camping @ Cowen Lake State park! There are organized activities on the lake and through the nature center. You can also do your own thing," explains Pamela M.
Tips from RVers
Urban-adjacent options: Winton Woods Campground provides equestrian access with city conveniences nearby. "Very nice campground inside the urban loop in Cincinnati. Close to everything, yet quiet and secluded camping experience. Limited number of full hook-up spots - more would make this and even better site. Get your ideal site early during busy season," advises Kenneth D.
Full-service RV amenities: Some parks offer comprehensive hookups. "Camp sites are all blacktop, level, and clean. Nice bath houses, and playgrounds. Some trails but not a lot else to see. Close to food and shopping areas," shares Jarrod M. about East Fork State Park.
Early reservations essential: Popular equestrian camping sites book quickly. "We just purchased an RV and was so excited to take a trip with it!! Being a first time RV owner we didn't want to travel too far from home just in case something would go wrong. I got spoiled by going to Hueston Woods for our first outing! VERY clean, there was a playground for the kids, bathroom and shower facilities were available," explains Charles K.
