Equestrian camping near Georgetown, Ohio provides specialized accommodations for horse enthusiasts within the rolling hills of southern Ohio. Located in an area with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,000 feet, the region features a mix of hardwood forests and open meadows ideal for trail riding. Seasonal temperatures vary significantly, with summer highs averaging 85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing.
What to do
Trail riding in Shawnee State Forest: Access over 75 miles of dedicated bridle trails through diverse terrain with significant elevation changes. "We stayed at Shawnee SP campground in August 2020... North of the campground there is a lodge with cabins and larger fishing lake," notes Marc H. about Shawnee State Park Campground.
Paddling on Cowan Lake: Rent canoes or kayaks for a peaceful water experience on this 700-acre lake. "The cabins here have both a fire ring and grill. This isn't the case at all Ohio State parks so it was a nice surprise. They also have a porch that is screened in with a view of the lake," mentions a visitor to Cowan Lake State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line at multiple lakes throughout the region, including East Fork Lake with its 2,160 acres of water. "Nice site! Big lake," comments T B. about East Fork State Park Campground.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many equestrian camping areas maintain well-kept amenities despite their rustic nature. "Bathroom was clean and well stocked through the weekend," reports Dori F. about Cowan Lake State Park Campground.
Spacious campsites: Horse-friendly campgrounds typically offer larger sites to accommodate trailers. "The stall accommodations are excellent, even include bedding. The camp Ranger/host, Larry?, was incredibly helpful and kind," shares Judy B. about her stay at A.J. Jolly Park & Campground.
Proximity to trails: Direct access to riding paths remains a top priority. "Just a beautiful park. Clean well maintained. Lots of amenities. Paddle boats, marina, 18 hole disc golf, bike park, huge dog park, store, archery range, playground and trails," says John R. about Shawnee State Park.
What you should know
Limited hookups at equestrian sites: Most dedicated horse camping areas offer minimal amenities. "AJ Jolly Flatwood section...most of the sites are large enough for 30 and larger RVs but were designed by someone who was clueless," advises Jeffrey D. about layout challenges at A.J. Jolly Park & Campground.
Cell service gaps: Remote locations mean unreliable communications. "For a park so close to a large city (Cincinnati), I was surprised the cell service was so lacking (on Verizon). We eked out one and occasionally two bars of 4G," reports Lee D. at East Fork State Park.
Seasonal drainage issues: Low-lying areas can become problematic after rain. "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," explains Karen J. about East Fork State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer recreation areas for children. "Unlike many Ohio State parks I've visited, the Shawnee campground has a variety of great tent sites. The campground had fun amenities for kids, like a very small mini golf course and an outdoor screen for movie nights," shares Jay T. about Pike Lake State Park Campground.
Educational opportunities: Look for parks with nature programs. "This park encourages so much outdoor activity... This park has a little for everyone. The nature center offered movies in the evening for guest," notes Andrea F. about East Fork State Park.
Beginner-friendly riding options: Some trails cater to newer riders with gentler terrain. "Good beginner park. Not a bad little park for mountain biking, hiking, etc.," suggests Caleb S. about East Fork State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose carefully based on your equipment size. "All camper pads are paved and most appeared level or just very slightly sloped. A picnic table and fire ring complete the site. Some sites have more trees to provide privacy while others are closer together with little separation," explains a reviewer of East Fork State Park.
Hook-up availability: Full-service sites are limited at equestrian campgrounds. "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," advises Kenneth D. about Winton Woods Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Many horse camping areas have uneven terrain. "Electric site only, full service all full. A bit rough getting RV setup, but pad is fairly level, so easily setup to use slides. Site 60, 46 feet max length, ours 39," reports Johnothan R. about Cowan Lake State Park Campground.
