Turnhole Backcountry Campsite offers a primitive horse camping experience on a ridge surrounded on three sides by the Green River. Located in Mammoth Cave National Park, this site can be reached via a moderate 3-mile hike from Maple Springs parking area. The campsite includes tent pads, fire rings with grates, lantern hooks, and hitching posts but lacks corrals or stalls for horses. Water access requires filtering from nearby creeks when available, as the river itself is difficult to reach through dense vegetation.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The extensive trail system at Mammoth Cave National Park offers options for horseback riders beyond the cave attractions. At Montgomery Bell State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the natural surroundings. "Great family friendly park with lots of hiking and historical sites. There is a beautiful waterfall and an adorable old church," notes Faith S.
Water activities: Explore the Green River by canoe or kayak for a different perspective of the park. Barren River Lake Resort provides additional water recreation options nearby. "LOTS of boating options. Bring your own or rent. The lake is huge and busy with a marina. There's a beach that you will want to drive to," explains Shelly S.
Seasonal events: Plan your horse camping trip around special events in the region. "Two cool events to check out are the Highland Games (men in skirts throwing things) and the Bourbonfest, a newer event," suggests a visitor to Barren River Lake. These cultural events offer entertainment after trail riding in the Mammoth Cave area.
What campers like
Private wilderness experience: The seclusion of backcountry sites appeals to many equestrian campers. When camping at Turnhole, "The cool thing about this campsite is your sorta on a peninsula of the river. Very private and it's not on a loop trail so no foot traffic passing by," according to Shelly S. This privacy is particularly valuable for camping with horses.
Natural setting: The surrounding forest creates a memorable camping atmosphere. At Dad's Bluegrass Campground, campers enjoy a "pleasant and easy full service rv park to enjoy a day of peace off the road," as Charlie M. describes. Though more developed than Turnhole, it offers another option for horse owners in the region.
Wildlife viewing: The diverse ecosystem supports numerous animal species that can be observed from campsites or along trails. "Clear nights with a bright moon were magical here," reports Mandy C. about Turnhole Backcountry Campsite. The peninsula location surrounded by the river creates excellent wildlife viewing opportunities at dawn and dusk.
What you should know
Water challenges: Access to water for horses requires planning ahead. According to Mandy C. at Turnhole Backcountry Campsite, "Despite this campsite being surrounded by the Green River on 3 sides, water is hard to come by here, and hiking it in may be your best bet. The river is at least 1/2 mile away, through extremely dense brush, and the banks are not easy to access."
Trail conditions: Summer trails may be less maintained than during peak seasons. Mandy C. notes, "We decided to do a day hike on the Sal Hollow Trail. It ended up being pretty exhausting: we believe it is a lot longer than the markers suggest, and a lot of the trail seems pretty unused/not kept up."
Transportation planning: The Green River Ferry status impacts access routes significantly. As Shelly S. advises, "Before using this campsite you are supposed to check in at the visitors center. Unfortunately the ferry is closed so it's a long drive around to the backside."
Tips for camping with families
Campsite selection: For horse campgrounds near Gallatin, Tennessee with family amenities, consider alternatives to primitive sites. At Montgomery Bell State Park, "With a great pavilion, Vb court, ball diamond, and playground, the far side of the camp is perfect for families, groups, and events. Our fave sites are 1-8, with #1+2 right next to the creek and the most updated bathrooms," recommends Stæven F.
Pack adequate supplies: With no facilities at backcountry sites, families need to bring everything they'll need. "We were lucky that a creek just north of the intersection of Buffalo Creek, Sal Hollow, and Turnhole trail had some water to filter from," notes Mandy C., highlighting the importance of carrying water filters.
Consider weather impacts: Summer heat can be challenging with limited shade. As one camper at Barren River notes, "The middle sites have pretty much no shade and we sweltered our middays, chasing the limited shade." Spring and fall typically offer more comfortable temperatures for family equestrian camping.
Tips from RVers
Alternative accommodations: Since Turnhole is tent-only, RVers seeking equestrian facilities should consider other options. At Dad's Bluegrass Campground, "All lots are pull through. They have a huge pavilion for events, nice pool, showers, and very clean restrooms," reports Mike F. Though not specifically designed for horses, this could serve as a base camp for trailer-in riding elsewhere.
Site layout challenges: When using RVs at developed campgrounds, be aware of hookup placements. One reviewer notes, "My site was slightly uphill where I had to park to reach the water hookup. The water hookup is very close to the ground and leaked for me. Made it very hard to connect the hose and pressure regulator. Used all of my 25 foot hose to reach my connection."
Seasonal considerations: Popular campgrounds with RV facilities fill quickly during holiday periods. At Montgomery Bell State Park, Jody A. observes, "This place is OK when it's not a busy weekend. We stayed on Memorial Day Weekend and it was completely full. When it's full, it's just TOO full." For equestrians with RVs, weekday visits may provide a better experience.
