Equestrian camping near West Portsmouth, Ohio centers around the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in an area locals call "The Little Smokies of Ohio." The region features substantial elevation changes with trails traversing hills that rise 300-400 feet above valley floors. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-40°F, while summer months can reach 85-90°F with moderate humidity.
What to Do
Trail riding on bridle paths: Shawnee State Forest provides 70 miles of bridle trails with varied terrain. "The backpack trail, 23 and 40 miles loops with 7 camping areas, register and enjoy. Equestrians get 70 miles and primitive camping," notes Shelly S. about Shawnee State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Small lakes throughout the area offer fishing options after a day on horseback. "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," explains Megan M. about Shawnee State Park Campground.
Cave exploration: Drive approximately 40 minutes to Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground for guided tours. "The park has a lot to do, not just the caves. There's tons of waterfalls off the trails, and other things to see. The caves are great to explore as well. Grab a ranger-guided tour and learn something," recommends Chris B.
What Campers Like
Secluded camping spots: Some areas offer more private settings for horse owners. "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," shares Megan M. about Shawnee.
Diverse terrain: The region features varied landscapes from creek beds to ridge tops. "Unlike many Ohio State parks I've visited, the Shawnee campground has a variety of great tent sites. Several of these are hidden in the trees at the top of some steps and up a short path," reports Jay T. about Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area.
Natural attractions: The area contains unique geological features. "The very short (but rewarding) Rockhouse Trail is right on top of the major lake action. The benefit is a nice rock house at the end, as well as interpretive signage that sheds light on Ohio's iron industry and history," describes Brew W. about Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area.
What You Should Know
Limited cell coverage: Most equestrian camping areas have poor connectivity. "There is absolutely no cell service in the Campground. The lodge at the top of the hill has a weak signal, but is better than nothing if you really need to check in with outside world," warns Carrie S. about Shawnee State Park.
Water access varies: Some horse-friendly sites lack standard water hookups. "You will need extra water hose and extension cords to get hooked up in a lot of the sites," advises Ron & Bonnie D. about Carter Caves State Resort Park.
Weather considerations: Rain can significantly impact trail and campsite conditions. "It rained the first day we were there and people were literally bailing their sites out with buckets. The places that weren't flooded were very muddy," explains Kristin L. about Pike Lake State Park Campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Some equestrian campgrounds feature kid-friendly amenities. "The campground had fun amenities for kids, like a very small mini golf course and an outdoor screen for movie nights. The shower houses were clean and the small camp store convenient," shares Jay T. about Shawnee State Park.
Swimming options: During summer months, cooling off is possible at several locations. "There is a small lake with a swimming beach and canoe rentals. They also have a gift shop and miniature golf," notes Marc H. about Shawnee State Park.
Holiday activities: Special events occur during holiday weekends at select campgrounds. "We were there on their Halloween weekend, with a fun site-decorating contest and trick or treat in the afternoon," mentions Megan M. about Greenbo Lake State Resort Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Horse trailer owners should research site dimensions carefully. "Not all the sites were as spacious as ours so be careful which one you choose. In fact, there was one so small, I'm not sure where a tent would go," advises Shannon G. about Pike Lake State Park.
Equestrian-specific amenities: The Equestrian Campground at Carter Caves State Resort Park offers facilities designed for horse owners. "The equestrian sites are full hookups and able to accommodate large rigs with pull through sites. The RV sites are under construction and will be some time before they are done. Bathhouse is clean and up to date," reports Robert H.
Utility connections: Power and water arrangements vary at equestrian sites. "Some sections of sites share one electric box for 2 campsites and can be pretty far from your pad. Also make sure to check in the details, which sites have sewer as they don't label it full hookups up front," recommends Amanda S. about Carter Caves State Resort Park.
