West Branch State Park offers multiple equestrian camping options near Limaville, Ohio, located in northeastern Ohio's rolling hills. This 5,000-acre park features seasonal weather variations with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and cooler spring and fall conditions. The park's equestrian area accommodates both horse campers and tent campers in a designated section with primitive facilities.
What to do
Horseback riding on bridle trails: At West Branch State Park Campground, riders access approximately 20 miles of trails open to multiple uses. "Great site! Shades lots of space semi private area. Right off the water with area to tie boat for easy water access," notes Katelyn P., highlighting the park's versatile waterfront sites that serve both equestrians and boaters.
Fishing at multiple locations: Anglers find success at numerous spots around Mosquito Lake. "It was ok! Unfortunately our campsite was under water due the extensive rains recently this past week and spring overall. But the staff at the camp office gave us a list of all of the open sites that we could choose from so that we could still camp," shares Samantha J. about Mosquito Lake State Park Campground.
Hiking diverse terrain: The region offers trails for all skill levels through forests and along waterways. "There are nice hikes around the creek too. We camp in the primitive site, which is very basic and well taken care of," explains Dan N. about Beaver Creek State Park Campground.
What campers like
Spacious, shaded campsites: Many parks offer sites with good separation and tree cover. "We got a site near the playground, which my 3 year old enjoyed. The campground wasn't busy and we had a lot of privacy. The sky was dark enough to see far more stars than you'd see near any larger towns or cities," reports Matt H.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain their amenities well despite high usage. "Nice views clean bathrooms nice people," Shannon D. says simply about Canton / East Sparta KOA Holiday - Bear Creek Ranch.
Water access: Sites near lakes and streams are popular for their recreation options. "We're at site 160. No electricity, no hook ups, but a HUGE lakefront site. We're in a self contained RV so it's not a problem for us. Beach is right next door too! Great trails, clean facilities, no complaints," shares Rino S. about West Branch State Park Campground.
What you should know
Primitive equestrian camping limitations: Horse camping areas typically provide basic amenities only. "Only 5 electric sites. Very clean pit toilets. Well maintained campground. A few equine sites. Only 2 electric eq sites. Electric is a little far behind pad. We almost needed extension cord," warns Eddie about Jefferson Lake State Park Campground.
Seasonal flooding concerns: Spring rains can affect campsite availability at several parks. "Small park, only a few sites with hookups, but very nice. Rustic, with trails to the main park that take you through beautiful woods," notes Ken M.
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling equipment at many parks. "Severe Sloping Site Won't Keep Us From Having Fun. On first impression we were not impressed with this park... our site was labeled slight slope. That was a joke. We were only off 2 inches side to side but front to back we had to lower the front 15 inches."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Lots of camping sites along the lake. Concert every Saturday during the summer. Great lake to take the kayaks on," mentions Linda R. about Mosquito Lake State Park.
Consider safety around horses: Parents should monitor children closely in equestrian camping areas. "It is a very well maintenance campsite most have fire pits a lot of level ground for tent camping pull in parking spots for RVs and campers a bathroom on site and two different trails to hike fishing minutes away," Justin T. says about Hidden Hollow Campground.
Book waterfront sites early: Family-friendly spots with water access are in high demand. "West Branch has private, spacious, shady sites. We can launch our kayaks right from our campsite. The shower house and bathrooms are large and clean. There is even a book exchange shelf at the shower house in case of rainy days."
Tips from RVers
Check water access points: Some parks have limited water fill stations with non-threaded spigots. "All water full up towers only have those spigots that are not threaded. Had to hold hose over spigot about 20 min to fill 35 gal. We were later told by staff the maintenance building had a threaded spigot," Eddie reports from Jefferson Lake State Park.
Request site specs before booking: RV sites vary significantly in size and levelness. "Camped here several times growing up. Staff were great and helpful. There was a lot of traffic at night but that's not their fault I suppose. But it's a fun campsite. Clean as always," says Bradley B. about Canton-East Sparta KOA.
Prepare for minimal hookups: Many equestrian camping areas lack full hookups. "The sites are huge. The dog park is amazing. Theres so much to do here. Swimming, boating, fishing. We love it. Only bad are no real bathrooms except at the front of the park. No place to wash dishes. Rough if you're tent camping."
