Equestrian camping near Erin, Tennessee offers access to wooded trails and lake shorelines in the rolling hills where Kentucky and Tennessee meet. With elevations ranging from 350 to 600 feet above sea level, the region features a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot summers. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide more moderate conditions for trail riding.
What to do
Trail riding along lake shores: At Lake Barkley State Resort Park, riders can explore trails with water views and varied terrain. "We camped in off-season and the place was quite empty. Camp host told us it was always pretty quiet. We had a water view- a finger of Barkley Lake," notes Lynn A. The park offers options for riders seeking both wooded paths and lakeside views.
Attend equestrian events: During camping season at Loretta Lynn's Ranch, special events draw horse enthusiasts. "My brother and eldest son camp and watch the AMA national motocross championship hosted by LL," shares Tyler S. The 3,500-acre property hosts various competitions and gatherings from March through October.
Explore wooded hiking trails: Montgomery Bell State Park provides extensive hiking options with historical features. "Great family friendly park with lots of hiking and historical sites. There is a beautiful waterfall and an adorable old church," reports Faith S. The park maintains well-marked trails suitable for day hikes ranging from easy 1-mile loops to more challenging 4-mile paths.
What campers like
Access to water recreation: Primitive camping at Cravens Bay provides direct lake access for campers with horses. "We stayed here in the middle of July in 2019! It made it easier for our girls to launch their kayaks and swim. Great spot for kayaking and tent camping," shares Benjamin C. The shoreline camping allows horses easy access to water.
Private camping areas: Some equestrian sites offer more seclusion than others. "Very nice campground, better than what I expected. We stayed at site 20 with a 36' travel trailer. Cravens Bay breaks down into two areas, the low ground and the high ground," explains lowrent0321. The sites between high and low ground areas offer particular privacy.
Camp store convenience: Horse campers appreciate having supplies nearby. At KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point, "Large camp store with a restaurant that serves sandwiches, pizza, beer and sodas... Golf cart rentals and the marina has boat rentals," notes Brad S. Having supplies accessible means less packing for equestrian campers.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. "Over all a nice place but could be better. Pads are not level. Saw a class A that had front wheels 10" off the ground and a TT with the hitch on the ground," reports Barry B. at Lake Barkley State Park. Bring adequate leveling equipment for your horse trailer.
Seasonal crowds: Holiday weekends attract more equestrian campers. "Area is beautiful but sites were close together and the ground outside of my trailer was very unusable, all hill and large rocks. No way to spend time outside of the camper," shares Ian O. about his experience at Loretta Lynn's Ranch during a rally.
Group camping options: Colson Hollow Group Camp accommodates larger equestrian groups. "We had this reserved for a large group and it was great! Tons of room to spread out especially with the water as low as it was. Vault toilets on site and a few fire rings," writes Matt S. The area works well for multiple horse trailers traveling together.
Tips for camping with families
Creek access for children: Montgomery Bell State Park offers creek-side camping popular with families. "Montgomery Bell State Park is very clean and quiet. We really enjoyed our spot by the creek. Children can wade in the creek all day, why parents enjoy sitting outside under all the shade trees," recommends Tammy P.
Variety of accommodation options: Families looking for horse-friendly camping with cabin options should consider Wranglers Campground. "Was greeted by friendly staff, splurged on a cabin and it was clean and comfortable. We were located close to the showers and some horse stables (but far enough away from them so as to not smell horses the whole time)," shares Laura H.
Water activities for non-riders: Families with mixed interests appreciate campgrounds with multiple recreation options. "We loved our visit to this KOA! Waterpark in the summer, boating activities, lake front sites. Countless activities for the kids and the pools are nice too!" explains Kristen about KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: Large rig owners should prepare for utility placement issues. "Well kept, no sewer hookup on sites, bath house clean, electric far from pads - bring extension cord," advises holly S. about Lake Barkley State Park.
Site selection for large trailers: Some spots work better than others for horse trailers with living quarters. "Enjoyed our stay. Bring quite a bit of leveling materials as the sites are very unlevel. Very shaded and decently spaced out. Water and electric only," recommends Cheyanne S.
Hookup availability: Full-service options exist for equestrian RVers. "This is one of 5 organized campgrounds with full hookups that accept reservations. There are many other smaller campgrounds with toilets and the entire recreational area allows dispersed camping with a permit," notes Molly W. about Wranglers Campground.
