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Pokagon State Park Campground near Angola, Indiana offers horseback riding services through an on-site saddle barn where visitors can enjoy guided trail rides. The campground features over 500 sites situated across five separate loops, with both electric and non-electric options available. Trail riders can access multiple dedicated hiking paths throughout the park that connect to nearby nature preserves. Bathrooms with showers are available in each camping loop, and sites include fire rings and picnic tables. Most sites have adequate shade from the surrounding wooded areas, though site dimensions vary significantly and some are positioned on noticeable inclines.
Located approximately 65 miles from Montpelier, Ohio, this state park provides year-round camping access with varying seasonal activities. The park maintains several miles of trails suitable for horseback riding, with pony rides available for smaller children under 52 inches tall. Water access is available at Lake James, where the park features a swimming beach area. The campground accommodates various camping styles including tent camping, RV sites, and cabin options. Sites are well-maintained though sometimes uneven, with some campers reporting difficulty finding level spots for trailers. The park environment remains relatively quiet even when fully occupied, creating a peaceful atmosphere for trail riding and other outdoor activities throughout its extensive grounds.
"Sites are in a well wooded area situated on 5 different loops (1 non-electric, 4 electric)."
"This site was fairly level but very close to other sites…wouldn’t recommend it."
from $20 - $480 / night
Check Availability"If you're traveling with kids or enjoy the community of being near your fellow campers this is a great option. If you are looking for a peaceful retreat this may be a bit loud and busy."
"I came here with a few family member to hike and get away from the rat race of life and that's exactly what I got. An awesome 1st time experience. "
from $14 - $80 / night
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GuideEquestrian trails and campgrounds are popular here. Horse rides sold on site. There is a nice hotel that sometimes hosts events actually located in the park. Come tobagginging and ice fishing in the winter and then pamper yourself in the hotel, or visit in the summer and have a beach day or easy hike with the family. Great spot for Pokémon Go because of the available cell service.
TravelerPokagon State Park has an excellent state park campground. Sites are in a well wooded area situated on 5 different loops (1 non-electric, 4 electric). Many sites are flat (good for tent camping) while others are slightly rolling hills (helps breakup the sites a bit). There is a lot to do in the park including many trails, horse riding (horse stable on site), and lake swimming on a nicely improved beach. Only cons are no full hook up and the fire rings/grills could be improved.
TravelerThis is an extremely large campground. About seventy-five percent of the sites are electric. We stayed in Site 255, which was not electric (booked last minute). This site was fairly level but very close to other sites…wouldn’t recommend it. However, Site 269 (next to Site 277) afforded great privacy and was large; among the non-electric sites this was the best I saw. I did not survey the electric sites, but I’m sure the site matters a lot. Non-electric sites are $20.00, plus a $9.00 park entrance fee.
There are numerous walking trails, along with horse and bike trails. Additionally, there are boat rentals, horseback rides, pony rentals, swimming, nature center, and a restaurant at the inn.
This is a family oriented park. Extended family groupings are very common. Nevertheless, people and their children are well behaved.
I would recommend this campground for two days or more. A one day stay will mean you probably won’t see much of this wonderful park. The only reason I gave it a four was that even in mid-September it was packed.
TravelerThere are trail, beaches, boats, horses... so many things to do
LegendThis state park was established in 1925, so almost 100 years old. The campground must be the original layout. There's a maze like quality to it. The roads are narrow & you may be driving off the road for a big rig.
Some sites are level, some aren't. Some can accommodate larger rigs, most can't. Check the site descriptions carefully & to be doubly sure, call the office & ask.
There's water stations that look very old. They have wooden, shingled roofs. There's 2 dump stations located in loops 3 & 4. IN THE CAMPGROUND! NEXT TO CAMPSITES!!!!
There's 5 loops to the main campground.
100 loop is small & closer to the lake than the other loops. It's the loop we chose this time.
The sites are on the small side. There's 3 campsites that are close to the lake. 115, which is a larger site. 117 & 119 which have clear views of the lake. 117 is more a tent or popup site & is small. 119 is the best of the bunch. A large pad & a large site. There's no privacy bushes. These sites have a view of the lake with trees & brush & are on a ridge overlooking the lake. They aren't ON the lake.
On either side of 117 & 119 are 2 trails that lead to the lake. There's benches & a dock to tie up your boat.
The rest of the sites are a mixed bag. Some are level, some have an incline. If you have a big rig, be aware that the road to the 100 campsites branches into one way. Leading into the campsites, the road is narrow & has a ravine on one side!
200 Loop is non electric
300 Loop is the biggest loop & seems like the best bet for larger rigs. As stated above, some sites are better than others. There's a uniformity here that's missing from the other loops.
Stay away from sites 393& 395!!! These sites are literally right on top of the dump station! As always watch for pit toilets near the sites.
400 loop is a smaller loop next to the 200 loop. There's only one shower house for both loops. Avoid site 444 & probably site 454. These sites are VERY close to the dump station.
500 loop is also smaller& has some nice sites tucked by themselves in the trees. There seems to be more privacy brush on this loop with SOME sites.
512 is close to the shower house. 511 & 513 were somewhat secluded.
If you have a boat you want to tie up at the dock, go for the 100 loop. If you can't get it, be aware there's no parking near the trails to the lake. You can park by the bathhouse & walk.
The shower & restrooms are atrocious!!! Worst looking buildings since Spring Mill SP! Dirty & need an entire overhaul. In fact, raze the buildings & build new ones! They're "cleaned" once a day. Suuuuuure they are. There was actual poop on the door of one of the women's toilet stalls the whole time I was there. Mold & spiders& dirt in the corners. Looks like the last upgrade was in the 50s.
ScoutWe visited for just one night on a fall weekday. Campground was not crowded. Our site #315 was spacious with a nice foliage buffer around it. Many nice sites, but also many small, not private at all sites. We enjoyed a hike on one of the nice hiking trails, saw many families enjoying the bicycle trails and paved park roads. There is an Inn and restaurant in the park. We talked about how nice it would be to meetup with non Camping family members at this location. There are horse stables and a winter toboggan run as well
GuideLovely little quiet campground and spacious park with plenty to do for 1-2 days. Staff is non-intrusive, and the site has plenty of room to camp about and roam. Find your own little quiet corner and unplug for a few days. It's better than Ohio's only National Park!
Note: the DNR trail maps are inaccurate but well worth your time, so research your trials well or you'll get a bit lost. Trail signs are also very confusing. Bring plenty of water as posted 'mile' hikes quickly turn in 5 mile hikes. I recommend walking the 'Wetlands' trail around dusk.
TravelerI have stayed in the Inn and the camp site. I highly recommend it. There are so many activities that people of all ages can enjoy! I Particularly like the horse back riding trails, and in the winter there are toboggan rides!
GuideWhat a beautiful park. So much to do, beach, hike, bike, horse back ride. Campgrounds can be crowded, lots of families, lots of kids. Campground 3 was a little tight for our 38 ft Class A, but certainly doable. Choose your spot wisely. The park staff were very friendly, very helpful. We needed to move spots, and then had issues with the electric. Everyone we dealt with was very accommodating, helpful, friendly.
Pokagon State Park Campground provides multiple horseback riding trails for equestrian enthusiasts near Montpelier, Ohio. Located in northeastern Indiana, the park features dedicated bridle paths that connect with nearby nature preserves, allowing riders extended trail experiences. The park maintains separate equestrian camping areas with proximity to horse facilities and trail access points.
Trail riding access: Chain O' Lakes State Park offers extensive trail networks that connect to nine interconnected lakes. According to Amanda J., "There is so much to do. Between the hiking trails, boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and biking. You won't ever get bored." These trails provide moderate terrain suitable for both novice and experienced riders.
Winter equestrian options: Pokagon State Park Campground maintains seasonal riding opportunities even during colder months. Rachel N. notes, "Visited April 4, more people than I thought, but found a spot to be by myself," indicating the accessibility of trails during transitional seasons when many equestrian facilities close.
Lake activities between rides: When not on horseback, visitors can enjoy lake recreation. At Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground, Jeremy C. reports, "Kayaking and the beach was a huge hit with the kids," making it an ideal spot for families to alternate between riding and water activities.
Trail maintenance quality: The upkeep of equestrian trails receives positive feedback from visitors to Pokagon State Park. Shelly S. observes, "There is an extensive trail system to enjoy that connects with the nearby nature preserve. There are horse tours and a very nice Inn for the less 'natural' crowd."
Site privacy for horse trailers: Pokagon State Park Campground offers well-spaced sites that accommodate equestrian equipment. Amy K. mentions, "There's 500+ sites, but all nicely separated and shaded," which provides adequate room for those traveling with horses and trailers.
Quieter camping sections: For those seeking a more tranquil equestrian camping experience, Anand found that, "Sites were nice and secluded where we were, but you could hear a few late night partiers nearby," indicating that certain camping loops offer better isolation for those with horses who prefer less activity.
Site dimensions for trailers: Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground has limitations for large horse trailers. As J.C. notes, "Sites are shorter and sometimes uneven," which requires careful planning when bringing equestrian equipment.
Seasonal trail conditions: Spring brings wet conditions that can impact trail access. Jerry R. mentions having to change sites because the original one was "under water," suggesting equestrian campers should call ahead during rainy periods to check trail conditions.
Facilities maintenance: Bathroom facilities vary across camping loops. Karson G. reports, "RR and showers nearby," while Truly W. notes, "The pit toilets did not have doors," indicating inconsistent amenities depending on which section you camp in with your horses.
Youth riding programs: Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground offers family-friendly equestrian activities. Jeffrey Y. comments, "Loved going here as a child and love it today! Beautiful park, well maintained, with lots to do," highlighting the multi-generational appeal for young riders.
Beginner trail options: Families with less experienced riders can access easier trails. Becky N. confirms, "There are trail, beaches, boats, horses... so many things to do," allowing families to choose appropriate riding difficulty levels.
Nature education opportunities: While not riding, families can participate in naturalist programs. Julie B. shares, "We spoke with the naturalist and volunteered our time she was absolutely fantastic," providing educational opportunities between trail rides.
Electric hookup locations: Pokagon State Park Campground offers various utility options for RVers with horse trailers. Kristen S. mentions, "Only electric hookups, but good for a short weekend. Best bike orbs, horseback riding, and quiet," suggesting RVers plan for limited utility access during equestrian camping trips.
Site leveling challenges: RVers with horse trailers should be prepared for uneven terrain. J.C. noted sites are "sometimes uneven," requiring leveling blocks and careful positioning for larger combined RV and horse trailer setups.
Weekend congestion: Holiday weekends create challenges for equestrian campers with large rigs. Truly W. explains, "It was Memorial Day weekend which could explain the noise/busy-ness," indicating weekday visits may be preferable for those seeking quieter conditions and easier maneuvering for horse trailers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Montpelier, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Montpelier, OH is Pokagon State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 52 reviews.
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