Best Equestrian Camping near Lynx, OH
We're here to help you find where to go horse camping in Lynx. Camping with horses is a beautiful way to experience nature. At The Dyrt, you can find top-rated spots for horse camping, as reviewed by campers.
Best Equestrian Sites Near Lynx, OH (15)
1. Carter Caves State Resort Park
Olive Hill, Kentucky46 Reviews•122 Photos•154 SavesHidden deep under the northeast forests of Kentucky, strange formations with names like Giant Turkey, Headache Rock, and The Cathedral mingle with cave corals, underground waterfalls and thousands of endangered bats. This is what awaits visitors to Carter Caves State Resort Park, approximately 90 miles east of Lexington. The park was only established, and the cave environments protected, in 1946. Prior to this, the land—and caves—have a long and storied history. It begins millions of years ago, when North America was in its development stage, with the land rising and falling, cracking and washing away. This began forming the caves as seen today. Fast-forward to the 1800s, and the caves served as a resource during the War of 1812. Today however, this 2000-acre park—both above and below ground—serves as a recreation destination for campers and adventurers. The resort at Carter Caves offers a variety of overnight options, including camping, cottages and a lodge. Campers will find a large campground with 89 RV sites with utilities, 30 primitive tent sites, eight equestrian sites, and two bunkhouses. Most RV sites are back-in, and can accommodate vehicles/trailers up to 60 feet; bunkhouses can accommodate up to six people. The campground features bathhouses with showers, water faucets, picnic shelters, horse stables, and a playground. The park’s cottages are fully equipped with linens, cookware, and most have wood-burning fireplaces; these can accommodate up to eight people. The Lewis Caveland Lodge offers 28 rooms with full amenities, balconies and patios. Dogs are permitted in designated areas, and must remain leashed. Campsite rates are $18–$55/night; cottages and lodge rooms are $75–$240/night. The main attraction at Carter Caves State Resort Park is … the caves! There are six named caves in the park for exploring. Some are open year-round, some are only open during the summer. The park offers guided walking tours in four of the caves. Tours range from 45 minutes to 2.5 hours, and require some stair-climbing and stooping. There are also two caves open for self-exploration. These are undeveloped, and require visitors to provide their own light source. For the adventurous, there are also two cave crawling expeditions. These tours are three hours long, and explore tight, undeveloped passages that require lots of crawling, stooping and duck-walking in muddy conditions. For visitors who would rather stay and play above ground, the park features 26 miles of hiking trails, guided horseback rides, putt-putt golf, rock climbing, and fishing and paddling on Smoky Valley Lake.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
2. Shawnee State Park Campground
Friendship, Ohio17 Reviews•161 Photos•84 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
$24 / night
3. East Fork State Park Campground
Concord, Ohio63 Reviews•272 Photos•185 SavesEast Fork State Park Campground is large with 400+ year-round sites mostly wooded, and located on the north side of the lake. (follow link for reservation details) It offers Electric and Full Hookup sites, including an equestrian camping in Loop A; all with 20, 30, and 50 amp service. Designated hammock camping sites are available.
Each site has a paved pad, picnic table, and fire ring. Bring your own equipment and play cornhole, soccer, basketball; plus enjoy beach and boat ramp access and pay-to-play putt-putt. Visitor’s Passes ($3) are collected from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend and special holidays (ie-Halloween campouts). Leashed pets are permitted in all areas.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$29 - $30 / night
4. Twin Knobs Recreation Area
Salt Lick, Kentucky40 Reviews•131 Photos•238 SavesOverview
Nestled on the shores of Cave Run Lake, this camp is part of the larger Twin Knobs Recreation Area. There are more than 200 sites spread out over 10 loops under a dense forest of mixed conifer and deciduous trees. The recreation area includes two reservable group picnic areas. Group camping is also available.
Recreation
Summer amphitheater programs and scheduled campground activities provide family fun and entertainment. The campground also has volleyball courts, basketball hoops and horseshoe pits. There is a boat ramp and beach. Popular lake activities include fishing, swimming, motor boating, windsurfing, sailing and water skiing. Scenic foot trails include the 2.5-mile Twin Knobs Shoreline Trail and the 1.5-mile Knob Overlook Trail.
Natural Features
The Daniel Boone National Forest embraces some of the most rugged terrain west of the Appalachian Mountains. The forest lies within the Cumberland Plateau, where steep forested slopes, sandstone cliffs and narrow ravines characterize the land in this region. Cave Run Lake is in the Cumberland District in the northernmost part of the forest. The lake is surrounded by the rolling hills of northeastern Kentucky.
Nearby Attractions
The Morehead Office Visitor Center offers information about the Daniel Boone National Forest in addition to interpretive exhibits. A popular attraction within the Daniel Boone National Forest is the Red River Gorge Geological Area, which features more than 100 natural sandstone arches.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
$40 - $43 / night
5. Greenbo Lake State Resort Park
Greenup, Kentucky16 Reviews•25 Photos•42 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
6. Pike Lake State Park Campground
Latham, Ohio11 Reviews•126 Photos•46 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
7. Cowan Lake State Park Campground
Wilmington, Ohio26 Reviews•83 Photos•108 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
8. Ashland Huntington West KOA
Grayson, Kentucky15 Reviews•40 Photos•18 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
9. Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius
Pedro, Ohio8 Reviews•19 Photos•146 SavesOverview
Iron Ridge is one of two campgrounds in the Vesuvius Recreation Area in southeastern Ohio's Wayne National Forest. Iron Ridge offers a great location for outdoor recreation, with activities like boating, swimming and fishing on Lake Vesuvius. Horseback riding and hiking are also available in the rolling hills surrounding the campground.
Recreation
Boating, fishing and swimming on Lake Vesuvius are the area's most popular activities. Anglers may catch bass, catfish, crappie or bluegill. More than 40 miles of trails exist in the area, with trailheads beginning at or near the campground. A 1/2-mile hiking trail connects the campground to Lake Vesuvius. Lake Shore Trail offers an 8-mile loop around the lake and shorter trails lead to Rock House Cave, a grand, tunnel-like sandstone cave that was once used by Native Americans for shelter.
Natural Features
Iron Ridge Campground is located on a wooded ridge above 143-acre Lake Vesuvius. A scenic forest of mature eastern hardwoods covers the area.
Nearby Attractions
The closest town is Ironton, Ohio, less than 10 miles from the campground.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
10. Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area
Pedro, Ohio6 Reviews•21 Photos•77 SavesOverview
Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area, named for the old Vesuvius iron furnace, is the Wayne National Forest's premier developed recreation site. The 143-acre lake and 1,200-acre complex provides the perfect spot for a getaway.
Recreation
Lake Vesuvius is a popular location for swimming and fishing. Anglers may catch bass, catfish, crappie and bluegill. A boat ramp is located on-site. A swimming beach is located at Big Bend. A large playing field and multiple hiking trails are available within the recreation area. The accessible 1/3-mile boardwalk along the southwest edge of the lake provides an opportunity for a leisurely stroll through the area, and the slightly longer 1/2-mile Longbow Archery Trail, accesses at least 25 field targets for shooting practice. The area boasts more than 25 miles of hiking trails and more than 45 miles of horseback riding trails.
Natural Features
The lake sits on Storms Creek, which was dammed in 1939 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The rugged hills and rock outcroppings offer a scenic backdrop for this beautiful recreation area. The historic Vesuvius iron furnace is located at the base of the dam.
Nearby Attractions
The closest town is Ironton, Ohio, less than 10 miles from the campground.
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
$52 / night
Recent Equestrian Reviews in Lynx
250 Reviews of 15 Lynx Campgrounds
Megan M.
Guide
Shawnee State Park Campground
Some secluded sites in woods- nice!
This campground has some features that are nicer than what is found in many state campgrounds. There are some secluded sites back in the woods, so you don't feel like you are camping in a parking lot in a few places. NOTE that most of these secluded sites (along the back edge of the campground) are up a flight of stairs. You have to carry all your gear up a hill or stairs to set up. You will not be near your car, which can get annoying.
The bathrooms were average, not great but not gross. We were there on their Halloween weekend, with a fun site-decorating contest and trick or treat in the afternoon, which was mildly annoying for us because they closed the roads from 2 to 6 so we could not drive back to our site, and when we finally could, someone was in our parking pot for the next hour.
The lakes are quite tiny. The one at the campground is more like a large pond- fine for paddling around on a paddleboard for practice, but don't think you'll get in any meaningful kayaking or sight-seeing on this pond. The other lake is slightly bigger, but still not big enough for kayaking more than a couple hours at most.
The new campground is on the river on what used to be the golf course- I will write a separate review for that.
The lodge has some amenities (pool, hot tub, cafe, bar), but we ate in the restaurant and it was terrible. I do not recommend. Get some apps at the bar if you have to but keep your expectations low. We had pork nachos and the pork tasted old, everything was cold and it gave me a terrible stomachache.
Dave B.Guide
Cowan Lake State Park Campground
Large Campground
Autumn is the best time to camp in Ohio. Lots of small bathrooms. Lake access. Only reason I didn't give it 5 stars was due to the fact there was no quick reentry. Had to wait for rvs in front of me to register.
Lee D.
Legend
East Fork State Park Campground
HUGE state park with many activities
General: Huge state park with over 400 sites. All are pet-friendly and electric. About 20 are FHU. While tent camping is permitted, certain sites are not recommended for it as there would be no place to pitch a tent. One loop is for equestrian camping but when we were there, I only saw one horse trailer, and the rest were occupied by RV campers.
Site Quality: 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.
Bath/Shower House: 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 (H Loop had two showers, two toilets, and three sinks). Hooks or shelves would have been appreciated.
Activities/Amenities: Many activities can be enjoyed here including mini golf (small nine-hole course), soccer, basketball, tennis, volleyball, corn hole, boating, and bicycling. Playgrounds are in several loops (I saw them in C and G). Rentals are available but most are only in season (ended September 30). There is a nature center and several hiking or paved biking/walking trails. There is also a camper beach for boating and swimming.
When we reserved months earlier, we knew that our first night (a Saturday) was 100% full as we got the very last site. What we did not know is that there was a HUGE Halloween celebration complete with 30-40 decorated golf carts parading through the campground. The road was closed until 6:45 pm (we arrived around 7 pm) and cars lined both sides of the approximately two-mile road! If that's your thing, great but it wasn't necessarily ours!
I appreciate that this park encourages so much outdoor activity, but it is not very pedestrian-friendly. I walked the road from one end to the other and there was no shoulder and, in many spots, no place to safely step off into the grass. I’m guessing it is assumed you will either have a car or golf cart to get around.
One final note: 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.
- MMarcia L.
TravelerEast Fork State Park Campground
Just my luck
When you check out, Eastfork, you should look at it personally instead of just online. My mistake was I did it online and I ended up with My Family being in the middle of the rich snob class of loop I lol.? We did have a very nice neighbor across from us the last couple days. The bathrooms were clean . Our lot was full of acorns very very dry and very very small lot. They say you’re supposed to camp or park your tent from the electric box over.
- MMarcia L.Traveler
East Fork State Park Campground
Decent spot to tent camp (while working on my “itty bitt” camper
Lot372 sits in a little into the woods. Makes it cool for camping. Real camping without a camper. lol shade some sun but watch out for the yellow jackets!
James R.
Ranger
Ashland Huntington West KOA
Two night stay
Start off by saying the staff were super great!!!! Stayed in space #1 and all the upper spots are open, wish they had more trees around the spaces. Overall it was still a great experience staying at this location.
Shannon G.LegendEast Fork State Park Campground
Spacious site
We enjoyed this site a lot. Neighbors weren’t sitting on top of one another. There was a tree for shade and plenty of space and grass to walk our dogs. Shower house was great!
Corey K.Traveler
Carter Caves State Resort Park
State Park with Abundance of Nature
A very nice state park with an abundance of natural resources surrounding the campground. There are many hiking options, some that explore the various caves around the grounds. The caves themselves are quite the treat.
The staff are all very friendly and there are camping sites for tents or rigs. However, like many state parks that have not been updated, navigating into some of the spots with a large rig can be challenging. On the one hand, this is nice as there are mature trees throughout. On the other hand, they could increase the size / length of the existing campsites. There is a nice playground and a camp store for any items you have forgotten.
The lodge is available down the road (within the state park) for dinner if you are looking to mix up the trip. Not fine dining, but decent food. There is also a pool available at a discounted rate for campers - which our kids enjoyed. Note: there are no full hookup sites, which is not uncommon for KY State Parks.
- Joshua R.
ScoutCarter Caves State Resort Park
Nice park
Level site. Staff cleans the bathhouse every hour.
Dori F.ScoutCowan Lake State Park Campground
Great campground!
We've been to Cowan a few times, first time in this loop and was not disappointed. Bathroom was clean and well stocked through the weekend. Additional vehicles have to pay $3.
- JJon C.Traveler
Greenbo Lake State Resort Park
Nice family oriented
Spent 4 nights, nice quiet camp grounds. Was in spot number 61, closest spot to the bathhouse. Not sure it would be the best spot in midsummer as it was also closest to the dumpster. That said it was recently graded and leveled. The primary issue I had was having a smaller camper with a lower sewer connection and the sewer connection was higher than the bottom of my unit.
- CCheerioScout
Twin Knobs Recreation Area
Beautiful Area
Stayed on the F Loop next to the lake, fire pit, picnic table, level tent site and bathroom showers a short walk. Camp hosts very friendly and helpful. campsite are close together.
- JJeff H.Scout
Carter Caves State Resort Park
Fun fall getaway
We went with three small kids. Great facilities, hiking, caving etc. We plan to return because two nights was not nearly enough to do all the things we wanted to. The tent sites are close together so we may not have enjoyed it as much if it were busier but we were lucky enough to get a site with no immediate neighbors. Pictures online made it appear that tree cover was not as good as it actually was.
Christie D.TravelerEast Fork State Park Campground
Eastfork lake camp.
This camp grounds beautiful, spacious, clean, and close to the lake.
- LLizGuide
Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area
Quiet, relaxing
Stayed here for 2 nights. Scarlet Oak campground. Drove and checked out the other two campgrounds which were also nice. Some sites are really small and some are right along the road. Not crowded at all during our visit. Some sites are sloped from slight to more severe. We did have to take our camper off our truck (truck camper) in order to get level. Our site had a large “yard” and trees. All great for our two big dogs. Site had w/e.
Joseph B.LegendGreenbo Lake State Resort Park
Decent campground with plenty of activities
Decent site by the stream. Plenty of shade and a huge hill behind our site. Bathrooms were clean.
A lot of unsupervised children running around, in the stream and riding bikes. Didn't have any problems with them, but was concerned they weren't supervised.
There was some trash at our site, a lot of broken water balloons, some bottle caps and wrappers.
One night someone stole fishing poles from our neighbor and a bunch of coolers from other sites.
Some sites are really not level!
- sshaunaScout
Twin Knobs Recreation Area
Amazing
We always make sure this is our #1 spot to go it's our home base campground , love the mature trees in the campground and the trail around the lake . It's beautiful ❤️ down here must visit.
Paul K.ScoutCarter Caves State Resort Park
Good time, loud people.
There’s a quiet time reserved for after 11pm. Apparently no one cares because people were LOUD the first night we were there. The second night was less crowded and much more enjoyable. There’s so much to do at Carter caves that I didn’t mind it too much. Lots to do within walking distance of the campground too.
- JJoe V.Scout
Cowan Lake State Park Campground
Exactly what a great campground should be
Every facility you need. Really engaged staff. Camp Coordinator Linda has a great group of people on board. Very friendly.
- AAndy B.Guide
Shawnee State Park Campground
Amazing tent sites, for Ohio
Tent camping sites were set back, in the woods, down a private path (about 75’) and totally secluded.
The park had a clean, nice outdoor movie theater, mini golf, and a lake with rentables.
- SStephanie H.Scout
East Fork State Park Campground
Nice area
Clean bathrooms and plenty of room between sites.
- DDestinyScout
Cowan Lake State Park Campground
Cowan
Great hiking trails and people are friendly
- DDestinyScout
East Fork State Park Campground
East fork
This place was amazing. My only complaint was the water stayed cold when I attempted to shower and the dryer didn't have any sort of timer and had to use it twice to get laundry dry
CampgroundKaren ..GuideTwin Knobs Recreation Area
Great campground! Large sites!
We stayed on an inner loop and was happy with our site but after scouting other sites, we would definitely go for an outer loop lakeside site next time. Gravel pads. Bathroom and showers were good. Quiet, peaceful campground with friendly staff. Enjoy all the lake activities!
- JJon P.Guide
Carter Caves State Resort Park
Pretty, hookups a distance away
The area is very pretty, lots of hiking and plenty of things to do. The campground itself is nice, sites aren’t very level side to side or front to back and the hookups are very far from the site. Be prepared to bring extra electric cord and hose. The spacing is good though on some spots. The ones that back up to the woods are pretty.
- jjohn A.Scout
Carter Caves State Resort Park
Nice park
All sites are small and on top of each other. Low water pressure (20) weird placements for water and electricity. However the things to do at this park are great from hiking to cave tours and more.
jeff S.TravelerEast Fork State Park Campground
Clean
Wash houses where clean. Camping areas kept clean. Full hookup sites had plenty of room. Quiet at night. Enjoyed our stay.
Guide to Lynx
Horse camping in Ohio offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and equestrian-friendly amenities, making it a great choice for riders and their horses.
Campers appreciate these amenities for horses
- Ben's Happy Trails - Horse Stable & Campground provides electric hookups and drinking water, ensuring a comfortable stay for both horses and riders.
- Equestrian Campground — Shawnee State Park allows for a rustic experience with ample space for horse trailers and easy access to trails.
- Paddle Creek Horse Camp features a peaceful setting, perfect for those looking to enjoy nature while accommodating their equine companions.
Tips for equestrian camping near Lynx, Ohio
- When visiting Shawnee State Park Campground, be prepared for some sites that require a bit of a hike to access, offering a more secluded experience.
- At Cowan Lake State Park Campground, enjoy the scenic trails that are ideal for horseback riding, along with facilities for your horse.
- Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius is known for its beautiful hiking trails and a serene lake, making it a great spot for equestrian camping.
Equestrian campgrounds include diverse activities
- East Fork State Park Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking and fishing, alongside its horse-friendly amenities.
- At Carter Caves State Resort Park, explore numerous hiking trails that lead to stunning caves, perfect for adventurous riders.
- Greenbo Lake State Resort Park features a picturesque setting with ample opportunities for fishing and hiking, making it a well-rounded destination for horse campers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Lynx, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Lynx, OH is Carter Caves State Resort Park with a 4.2-star rating from 46 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Lynx, OH?
TheDyrt.com has all 15 equestrian camping locations near Lynx, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.