Horseman's Camp at Versailles State Park offers one of several equestrian camping options near Cincinnati, Ohio. Located about 60 miles from Cincinnati, this specialized facility sits within a 16,000-acre park complex in southeast Indiana. The region consists primarily of wooded ridges and stream valleys with elevations ranging from 750 to 900 feet. Most equestrian camping areas in the region maintain moderate seasonal availability from April through October, with limited winter access.
What to do
Trail riding at Whitewater Memorial State Park: Direct access to bridle trails with varying terrain suitable for riders of all skill levels. "We came here and stayed in my tent (family had their horse trailer with camper) for a night during the chilly nights of October. I wish all campsites were like these - very, very spread out!" notes Brady R. about the Whitewater Memorial State Park Campground.
Overnight equestrian camping at A.J. Jolly: Camp with your horse in designated stalls with bedding included. "Stall accommodations are excellent, even include bedding. The camp Ranger/host, Larry?, was incredibly helpful and kind," reports Judy B. about her experience at A.J. Jolly Park & Campground.
Hiking near equestrian areas: Many parks offer mixed-use trails where hikers and horses share access. "The Twin Valley Trail is actually a collection of trails in the Germantown and Twin Creek Metropark, interconnected by a rugged, heavily wooded trail with switchbacks managing the climbs and descents over the limestone bluffs and cuts," describes Charles R. at Dayton Metro Parks (Five Rivers Metroparks).
What campers like
Spacious equestrian sites: Most horse campsites provide ample space for trailers and tack. "The equestrian sites are big enough for 30 ft trailers site 5 is ok but it's pad is about 6 ft off the road between the sites," explains Jeffrey D. about A.J. Jolly Park & Campground.
Easy access to riding trails: Many campgrounds feature trail access directly from camp. "There is a starting access point at the horse campground for horseback riding trails that also led to the horse barn," notes Brady R. from Whitewater Memorial State Park.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of equestrian facilities. "Our campsite was close to two different bathroom structures. One right behind our site was toilets only... The other bathroom structure was further down the road and it had both toilets and showers. The larger bathroom had an ADA shower in it as well," reports Kenpocentaur K. at East Fork State Park Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian campsites require advance booking, particularly during peak seasons (May-September). "We registered/paid online but the entire weekend there were no staff to be found. Someone came by Friday night when we pulled in to tell us we could check in at the booth at the entrance of the park," shares Kelli B. about East Fork State Park.
Water and hookups vary: Not all equestrian campsites offer full hookups. "No water so be sure to bring your own," advises Kenpocentaur K. about Twin Creek Metro Parks.
Seasonal conditions affect trail access: Spring conditions can make trails muddy. "The creek runoff is managed by the Germantown Dam, and the park is upstream, so the heavy rains we'd been having had left the valley and banks very sloppy and muddy," notes Charles R. at Hueston Woods State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose parks with diverse activities: Select campgrounds with options beyond riding. "The park has a lake where you can fish and kayak. I would also note that there is only one dump station for the three campgrounds so there can be quite the line when trying to get out of there on a Sunday afternoon," mentions Jessie W. at Cowan Lake State Park Campground.
Consider proximity to water features: Many campgrounds offer lake access for additional recreation. "Close to Cincinnati but each site is wooded and on lake front, lots to do!" says Anna N. about A.J. Jolly Park.
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Some parks offer additional attractions for children. "In addition to the lake, they also had a farm on the property that was enjoyable for the kids to see the animals. You can hear some of the animals but we enjoyed this aspect," explains Kenpocentaur K. about Possum Creek Camp.
Tips from RVers
Check power options: Electric service varies between parks and specific sites. "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," explains Lee D. about East Fork State Park.
Site leveling considerations: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some locations. "Sites are gravel and not level the rest rooms are new and nice. The horse stalks are very nice. If you have a large horse trailer type camper you're screwed the sites are small so that only leaves you with the RV sites that are a few 100 feet away from the stables," cautions Jeffrey D. about A.J. Jolly Park.
Dump station access: Plan for dump station waits at busier campgrounds. "I would also note that there is only one dump station for the three campgrounds so there can be quite the line when trying to get out of there on a Sunday afternoon," advises Jessie W. about Versailles State Park.
