Equestrian campers near West Jefferson, Ohio can explore numerous trails through rolling woodlands and valleys. The central Ohio region has a typical Midwest climate with warm summers and cold winters, making spring and fall ideal for trail riding. Several campgrounds provide dedicated corrals and stables for horses, with some offering trail access directly from the camping areas.
What to do
Trail riding at Kiser Lake State Park: Kiser Lake State Park Campground offers several short hiking trails that connect to larger trail systems. The calm lake doesn't allow motorized boats, making it peaceful for shoreline riding. "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," notes Andrea F.
Explore historic Chillicothe area: Great Seal State Park Campground provides access to miles of multi-use trails through the foothills of Appalachia. "Simple and safe... Equestrians, mountain bikers, and hikers seem to use this park often. A steep hike up Sugar Loaf will wake you up in the morning," says Michael L.
Fish at nearby lakes: Multiple water bodies around West Jefferson provide fishing opportunities. At Alum Creek State Park Campground, campers can fish directly from some sites. "Sites are nice with some sites able to boat up to them. Be careful with rainy weather, some sites have flooded in poor weather," warns Katelyn P.
What campers like
Spacious equestrian sites: Palmerosa Horse & Hike Campground offers recently upgraded facilities for horse campers. "The new owners of the Palmerosa Campground have put a lot of time and money into this campground! Almost everything has been tore down and rebuilt... The old horse stalls have been torn down and 28 new covered stalls have been built! They are amazing and plenty if room for larger horses," shares Chad B.
Privacy between sites: Many regional campgrounds feature good site separation. At Delaware State Park Campground, "the 'pod' layout of the campground made for large campsites (some sites are over 90 feet in length and well suited for large RV's) with good separation between sites," according to Nancy W.
Seasonal activities: Fall brings special events to many campgrounds. At Kiser Lake State Park, one camper experienced Halloween festivities: "I went the first weekend in October so they had a lot of families there because they had all sorts of Halloween activities going on, so it wasn't very quiet, but I still enjoyed myself."
What you should know
Varying bathroom conditions: Facilities vary widely between parks. At Buck Creek State Park Campground, "Bathrooms were clean but not spotless and in need of a little repair. We were there on a Tuesday in October so not very crowded. All in all a nice place to stay for the night and get a good shower," reports Mike & Deb L.
Cell service considerations: Reception varies by location and carrier. At Delaware State Park Campground, "Located near the town of Delaware, you aren't too far off the beaten path and we even had decent service with Verizon."
Seasonal trail conditions: Spring and fall offer optimal riding weather, but plan for mud. "Due to off season and COVID the camp store is closed and there is no camper host or park office staff around. We did notice lots of downed trees on the poorly marked hiking trails," notes one visitor about Kiser Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated kids' activities: Some parks organize regular events. At Cowan Lake State Park Campground, "Camp host on I think lot 71 or there about were great at keeping the activities going. Every night there was a movie and you could buy root beer floats for $1!! And the kids loved it," shares Melissa M.
Choose campgrounds with play areas: Several parks have dedicated children's facilities. Buck Creek is "a nice 'weekender' type of campground. The sites are clean and level for the most part... The reservoir provides ample opportunity for swimming, fishing and there is great space to fly a kite if that's in your book or tricks."
Consider biking opportunities: Many parks have bike-friendly layouts. At Delaware State Park, "At the camp store/office you can rent bikes as well as other sporting equipment," while another camper notes Cowan Lake has "a variety of water stations" making it suitable for "lots to do for families."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Look for level spots with appropriate hookups. At Cowan Lake State Park, "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.
Internet connectivity varies: Check cellular coverage if you need to stay connected. "Internet here on t-moble 5G home is 90Mbps down and 6 to 20Mbps up. Verizon on cellphone, only 10Mbs down, 1-3Mbps up. ATT cellphones are similar to Verizon. Great enough for work or play," notes one RVer at Cowan Lake.
Event parking options: RVers passing through for events can use fairground camping. "This is a parking lot at the fair grounds. I'm sure it's fine for people traveling for the fair but not what I would consider camping," explains Neal C. about Korbel Campgrounds at Ohio Expo Center.
