The A.J. Jolly equestrian camping area offers dedicated sites for riders approximately 500 feet from the main RV section in Alexandria, Kentucky. Located 30 minutes from New Richmond, Ohio, the park features both horse-specific accommodations and traditional camping options. The terrain includes a 200-acre lake and wooded surroundings that can become muddy during rainy periods.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: East Fork State Park Campground offers multiple trail options for cyclists. "Not a bad little park for mountain biking, hiking, etc.," notes Caleb S., while Andrea F. adds, "There was several miles of bike trails, bridle trails and hiking trails."
Kayaking and fishing: The lakes at several campgrounds provide water recreation opportunities. At Cowan Lake State Park Campground, visitors enjoy paddling during various conditions. "A friend and I were able to kayak on the lake the night of a Friday the 13th moon. It was beautiful," shares Kenpocentaur K., who visited nearby Five Rivers Metroparks.
Equestrian facilities: Horseback riders can access trails connecting directly to campgrounds. The horse stalls at A.J. Jolly include bedding, making it convenient for travelers. "Stall accommodations are excellent, even include bedding," confirms Judy B.
What campers like
Lake views and access: The waterfront sites at many campgrounds near New Richmond allow for direct lake access. "Close to Cincinnati but each site is wooded and on lake front, lots to do!" explains Anna N. about A.J. Jolly Park & Campground.
Clean bathroom facilities: Winton Woods Campground maintains well-kept shower facilities. "The bathrooms are clean, with private combined shower/dressing stalls," reports Anne H., while Rita J. states, "They had everything we needed for a pleasant stay."
Fire rings and picnic areas: Most sites include fire rings and picnic tables, with some campgrounds offering additional amenities. "The nice thing about their site is the additional tables made it easy for us to socially distance," explains Kenpocentaur K. about Dayton Metro Parks, noting that "All of these small touches really made COVID-19 camping with kids much easier."
What you should know
Site layout and design: Many campgrounds have specific arrangements that affect how RVs can be positioned. "So most of the sites are large enough for 30 and larger RVs but were designed by someone who was clueless," Jeffrey D. explains about A.J. Jolly, adding that "If you want to use your RV awning means your wheels in whatever your using are going to be nearly off the level area or in the grass."
Seasonal crowds: Hueston Woods State Park Campground experiences significant weekend traffic during fall months. "Unknowingly, it appeared every weekend in October has a big Halloween emphasis, so the upper campground was sold out," reports Dave V.
Water availability: Not all campgrounds provide water hookups at individual sites. "No water so bring your own and the latrine is an old one (cement blocks)," advises Kenpocentaur K. about Possum Creek Camp Site.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Many campgrounds near New Richmond have dedicated play areas for children. "Nice bath houses, and playgrounds. Some trails but not a lot else to see," mentions Jarrod M. about East Fork State Park.
Tent-friendly sites: Families seeking tent camping options have several choices. "We love Hueston Woods! We have been there twice now and tent camp. A lot of the sites are large and have enough space for everything you need!" shares Maddy B.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs that engage younger visitors. "The nature center offered movies in the evening for guest," explains Andrea F. about East Fork State Park, adding that "Trails were well marked and the camp hosts were very friendly."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: RV campers should prepare for potentially uneven sites at certain parks. "None are level looking so you will need to know what your doing to level your rig," explains Bobby C. about A.J. Jolly Park & Campground, though he adds, "I was happy for a quick fix. So yea I will be back."
Hookup availability: The electrical and water hookup placement varies between campgrounds and sites. At Cowan Lake, one reviewer noted, "We stayed in Site 78. The lot was VERY large and well maintained. The asphalt pad was decently level; a picnic table and fire ring were included."
RV size limitations: When seeking horse campgrounds near New Richmond, Ohio, RV size must be considered. "The sites are small so that only leaves you with the RV sites that are a few 100 feet away from the stables," explains Jeffrey D. about the equestrian area.
