Salt Fork State Park is the largest state park in Ohio, spanning over 17,000 acres with its campgrounds located about 12 miles from New Concord. The park sits within the unglaciated Allegheny Plateau region, characterized by rolling hills and valleys with elevations ranging between 700-1,300 feet. Horse campgrounds near New Concord, Ohio typically operate from April through October, with most closing during winter months due to muddy conditions on trails.
What to Do
Trail Rides in Wayne National Forest: Kinderhook Horse Trail provides extensive riding opportunities through dense deciduous forest. "The Paw Paw trail on the other hand was very smooth, dry and wide. The trail leads to the top of the hill," notes Annika E. about Kinderhook Horse Trail.
Boating on Multiple Lakes: Salt Fork's 2,952-acre lake offers comprehensive boating options. "Large lake allows for all types of boating. Has large campground only beach and plenty of hiking trails/destinations," writes Jay B. about Salt Fork State Park Campground.
Hunting Opportunities: The region offers seasonal hunting in designated areas. "Just driving in saw turkeys and 'turkets':) and two 6 point bucks. You can hike, swim, boat, bike and horseback ride," shares Shelly S. about hunting-friendly surroundings.
Natural Spring Water Collection: "Salt Fork lake is natural spring fed water supply that fills this lake. Bring containers to put natural pure water in for home or camping supply," recommends JH T.
What Campers Like
Trail Accessibility: Most equestrian campgrounds feature direct access to trail systems. "Very quiet campground with little to no other riders around," mentions Janessa S. about Blue Rock State Park Campground — Blue Rock State Park.
Dog-Friendly Areas: Some parks feature dedicated dog recreation spaces. "Dog park!! and right on the lake!! Found this by mistake on our way out, and the dogs loved it. Access to lake, a beach, well fenced," reports Staci R. about Salt Fork State Park.
Fall Camping Season: Autumn brings cooler temperatures and changing foliage. "The change of season brings a very different atmosphere to the park and the people staying in it. The facilities are still well maintained... The Trailhead's located throughout the area give you a good workout on the hilly terrain and offer some awesome fall scenery," notes Shelly S.
Spacious Sites at Some Campgrounds: "We have camped here 3 times now and even though it's a large park the sites are huge so you still feel like you can kick back and relax. Quiet neighbors and friendly staff plus everything is mowed and well maintained," writes Andrea F. about Mohican Wilderness.
What You Should Know
Water Access Varies: Not all equestrian campgrounds provide adequate water facilities. "Does have a small hand pump water spigot. Has no flush vault toilet. No hook-ups of any kind," reports Joe B. about Kinderhook Horse Trail.
Non-Equestrians Using Horse Camps: Be aware that non-riders sometimes occupy designated horse sites. "Only complaint would be the non equestrians staying in the equestrian area," notes Janessa S. about Blue Rock State Park.
Seasonal Closures: "We camp here several times a year. Nice trails, good fishing, clean pool, boat rental - always fun no matter the season," explains Gretchen R., though many facilities reduce services during winter months.
Tick Precautions: "TICK WARNING!!!! After a morning hike down wooded Trail, we spent A LONG TIME pulling ticks from dogs...even though the temps were in the 30's overnight and everyone was treated with flea & tick protection," warns Staci R.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for Multiple Activities: Choose parks with diverse recreational options. "This is a family friendly campground with lots to do. They offer on river and off river sites... They are full of amenities like: horse back riding, shooting sports, canoeing, playground, swimming lake, putt putt and more," recommends Shannon P. about Mohican Wilderness.
Consider Site Layout: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain. "Our site # 14 was very hilly but at least it had a tent pad at the bottom of the hill so it was flat where we were sleeping. At night we heard an owl and it was very peaceful," shares Nicole C. about Burr Oak State Park Campground.
Beach Access: "This park is huge! There are several areas to pay for camping as well as primitive camp. It's near the water and they offer several trails," reports Jacqueline F. about Salt Fork.
Historical Sites: "Trails that lead along shore line to old stone house built in early days of Ohio. Caves to be explored that are easy to access," mentions JH T., highlighting educational opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Site Selection Matters: "Sites are packed together like other parks and majority are large and level. We stayed in G loop (G33) and were more than satisfied with the site," advises Jay B. about Salt Fork State Park.
Limited Full Hookups: "There is a dump station near the entrance. There is also a small camp store at the entrance. Overall, a nice place to spend a weekend," notes Brian B. about Dillon State Park Campground.
Accessibility for Different RV Sizes: "This is an awsome state park. Personally, it is definitely a favorite and I think it is one of the best in the state," reports Jay B., though larger rigs should check specific site dimensions.
