Best Equestrian Camping near South Carthage, TN

Turnhole Backcountry Campsite at Mammoth Cave National Park offers horse-friendly camping with hitching posts at individual sites. Located on a secluded peninsula surrounded by the Green River on three sides, this primitive campsite features dedicated horse hitches, tent pads, fire rings with attached grates, and hooks for lanterns or packs. The campsite is approximately 3 miles from the Maple Springs parking area via either the Buffalo Trail (direct route) or the longer Sal Hollow Trail. The trails are well-marked and shared between hikers and horseback riders. The privacy of this peninsula location ensures no through traffic passes by the site during overnight stays.

The horse trails throughout Mammoth Cave National Park form an extensive network that many visitors overlook when focusing solely on cave tours. Trail access from Turnhole campsite connects riders to the Buffalo Creek and Sal Hollow trail systems. Water access can be challenging, with the Green River banks difficult to reach through dense brush, requiring riders to pack in water for horses or filter from occasional creeks. The Green River Ferry is often non-operational, so checking the status hotline (270-758-2166) before arrival is essential for planning access routes. The campsite requires check-in at the visitor center before use. Winter months provide better viewing opportunities through the forest with reduced foliage. The surrounding woodland offers plentiful seasoned wood for campfires during horse camping stays.

Best Equestrian Sites Near South Carthage, Tennessee (7)

    1. Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    Lebanon, TN
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (615) 443-2769

    $25 - $30 / night

    "I had seen great reviews for this place, like many in Tennessee, but the amenities never seemed to stop when I actually arrived.  "

    "The campground at Cedars of Lebanon State Park deserves 5 stars for their proximity to Nashville, the large paved pads for campers, the peaceful woods, and their overall cleanliness."

    2. Turnhole Backcountry Campsite — Mammoth Cave National Park

    2 Reviews
    Mammoth Cave National Park, KY
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 758-2180

    "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."

    "Unfortunately the ferry is closed so it’s a long drive around to the backside.

    Turnhole Campsite is a short or long hike from the Maple Springs parking area."

    3. Dale Hollow Lake - Primitive Camping — Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

    9 Reviews
    Hilham, TN
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (931) 243-3136

    $5 / night

    "There are about 4 lakeside sites available all with good lake views"

    "Cove Creek at Dale Hollow lake in TN is a primitive campsite with lakeside camping. There are water faucets for drinking water and a pit toilet available."

    4. Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

    12 Reviews
    Albany, KY
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 433-7431

    $30 - $55 / night

    "Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park is right on the Kentucky/ Tennessee boarder and not a short drive from anywhere. It is out in the farmlands, but worth the drive."

    "sites: horse sites available. wooded area around campground. semi-private sites. amenities: lake. pool. other attractions: lodge/camping cabins. restaurant. I would go back again."

    5. Dad's Bluegrass Campground

    6 Reviews
    Franklin, KY
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 253-5191

    $30 - $45 / night

    "While visiting family in Scottsville we were in need of a close by RV park for our 40’ rig. This was the perfect spot for us."

    "A lot of people pull in for the night since it's right off the highway and behind a Pilot/Flying J, but it was still quiet."

    6. Barren River Lake Resort Lodge & Cottages — Barren River Lake State Resort Park

    2 Reviews
    Lucas, KY
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 646-2151

    "There is a short trail near the boat ramp, more for fisher folk then a good hike. It ends at a small inlet. You have a strip of grass to your uphill side to use, otherwise not much privacy."

    7. Happy Camper Campground

    Be the first to review!
    Rock Island, TN
    35 miles
    +1 (931) 686-4468
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Equestrian Camping Reviews near South Carthage, TN

77 Reviews of 7 South Carthage Campgrounds


  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 20, 2017

    Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

    Almost a 5 star

    Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park is right on the Kentucky/ Tennessee boarder and not a short drive from anywhere. It is out in the farmlands, but worth the drive.

    I drove to it from Cumberland Parkway, a very picturesque drive. The GPS took me right to the entrance no issues like there are with some other parks.

    Once there the main areas are very well marked. The camp store has a somewhat useful map that will get you there by road.

    My disappointment and frustration was the trails marked on the map. I'm not sure if some spurs are new, not used often or being reclaimed but we would start down a trail that had a trailhead sign and then the trail would just disappear into the weeds or a field with no signage.

    The trail to Eagle Point was well used and a good walk to an awesome view.

    The Campground is set up in what I call wagon train circles (lol) if your going with a large group it's perfect. People parked their toys and cars in the middle and set up in the sites around the hub.

    if your not with a group you will probably have an opportunity to met your neighbor. There is not a lot of shade. There is a pool on site and cute little blue cabins to rent. Newer restrooms and a dumpstation. Tge horse ampground was adjacent to the regular campground.

    The Marina and Lodge are at the end of the road and there was a golf course on the way in. Pretty much covers all the bases of outdoor entertainment.

  • B
    Jun. 23, 2016

    Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

    nice

    sites: horse sites available. wooded area around campground. semi-private sites. amenities: lake. pool. other attractions: lodge/camping cabins. restaurant. I would go back again.

  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2018

    Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground

    Resort Amenities At A Campground Price

    When I happened upon this campground I was pleasantly welcomed by a visitor center and hiking from the moment I entered the park.  But no matter how nice this area was I wasn’t able to even expect what was to come with the camping facility which by far was a surprise to say the least.   

    I had seen great reviews for this place, like many in Tennessee, but the amenities never seemed to stop when I actually arrived.  From an Olympic sized swimming pool, horse stables, a historic chapel, butterfly garden, playgrounds, picnic areas, hiking trails, nature center and even outdoor recreation fields.  It seemed never ending! There was even a cave, that with special permit you can crawl into and explore!

    The spaces were closer together than I might have have normally liked, but everyone was so friendly it didn’t seem to matter.  When I was there, there was an event going on that coming weekend so it was a bit more full than typical week day would have been.   

    Still despite all the people, it wasn’t loud.  People did not blast music, talk loudly after hours or have generators humming throughout the night.  Instead it was like being in this nice isolated area just with a bunch of neighbors also enjoying the isolation.

    I took full advantage of all the outdoor spaces, the only one I didn’t get a chance to enjoy was the pool which was at a point during the season where it was only open on weekends.   

    I would stay at this site again if passing through.  Reservations are not required but could be helpful on busy weekends like the one I stayed just before.  I do suggest checking into the office also to get a Passport for the State of Tennessee (a small book you can stamp with each stop you make at a state facility).

    TIPS:

    • Bring your sense of adventure!  Lots of things to do from birdwatching to hiking and everything in between.
    • Sit in the butterfly garden.  The area is so peaceful and beautiful because of the unique selection of plants selected to draw in the butterflies.  It is a perfect place to spend some time in quiet reflection.
  • Candy H.
    Jun. 22, 2021

    Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

    Okay area

    The sites are pretty close together but it does indeed live up to the resort part in the name. You can purchase WiFi access. There’s a pool, cabin, golf course. It’s also a horse camp with several miles of trails.

  • Megan C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 29, 2024

    Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground

    Great Campground, Large Paved Pads, Close to Nashville, BUT CONSTRUCTION!

    We camped here for 2 full weeks.  The campground at Cedars of Lebanon State Park deserves 5 stars for their proximity to Nashville, the large paved pads for campers, the peaceful woods, and their overall cleanliness.

    However, we were here when there was construction going on.  It was LOUD from 8am to 4, 5, and even 6pm somedays with working trucks and digging up the Tennessee Rock.  

    The weekends were peaceful without the construction, and the trails are all easy and flat.  The showers worked well and were the typical campground showers.  

    The wifi that is listed on the website is basically nonexistent, so don't count on that for anything important.  But Verizon had good service, while AT&T was fair.  

    Only Campground 3 was open during our stay and you can see the work they are doing here is going to make a huge difference to be big rig friendly.  Enjoy!

  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 26, 2018

    Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground

    Old meets New

    As soon as we pulled into Cedars Of Lebanon State Park I got the old time vibe from the split tree fences and ancient farm equipment to the black and white photos in the visitors center, this park seems very in touch with its beginnings.

    We hiked some of the 2 mile running trail and then veered off to explore the CCC original looking covered bench which overlooks a currently dry stream bed. There is a similar covered bench on the far-side of the dry creek with very cool stone “steps” leading from one to the other and a wood bridge further down the small valley to cross the stream bed when it has water in it. The stream runs into a cave that you can visit while at the park, guided tours are suggested but not required. Check in before exploring the cave and wear old clothes that you don’t mind getting muddy, low ceiling and headlamp/flashlight needed.

    As you follow path up away from the creek bed you wander into a very unique garden area which is part of the Nature Center. I would love to have the creativity and skill to build some of the structures in my yard. Definitely worth a visit. 

    The picnic area which is adjacent the lodge has small and large pavilions for use and fire pits. The lodge looks like it’s the original that you can see in the black and white photos.

    The campground had the smell of bacon cooking when we pulled in which just sets the atmosphere perfectly;) there are three loops. One has side by side sites, no privacy and not much space but easy in, easy out. The other two loops have more area between sites which are tucked back into the trees. Area 3 is for pop ups , tents and vans with 20 amp electric, Area 2 is for the larger campers, 30 amp and area 1, the side by side is 30 to 50 amp. Aside from the occasional overly excited children it is a very nice quiet campground. There is disc golf, a swimming pool and riding stables plus two playgrounds and a nice gazebo that you can rent for special events. Definitely a campground to spend a chill weekend and unwind.

  • Dan N.
    Aug. 1, 2016

    Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground

    Cedars everywhere

    Lovely park with somewhat unique cedar glades and tons of rare plant life. If you can snag a serious gardener or botanist to visit with you you’re in for a treat. Trails are easy, lots of wildlife, lots of cedars. Lots of horses on site too. And weddings in the lodge all summer. Modern state park setup, clean and well cared for with some extra activities. Tent sites were more private and woody. Cabins seemed popular given what neighbors said. Very nice state park, would return.

  • K
    Sep. 12, 2020

    Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground

    Great State Park close to our house

    There are several nice playgrounds, ranger led activities, a nature center that my kids loved, a butterfly garden, several short hikes that are good for kids. There are several sinkholes and cedar glades. There are also some caves you can explore if you want to get muddy. We often go here for day visits, but the overnight amenities are also nice. They no longer have horse stables.

  • Mandy C.
    Aug. 8, 2020

    Turnhole Backcountry Campsite — Mammoth Cave National Park

    Secluded Site, Easy Hike

    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, if accessible at all. 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.

    This is a nice, secluded spot. You are on the end of a ridge. Clear nights with a bright moon were magical here. It is probably a beautiful spot when there is no foliage, as well. We camped in August.

    There is a tent pad, hooks for lanterns or packs, horse hitches, and a fire ring with a grate attached. Hike in is a little over 3 miles, a pleasant hike, but not a whole lot to see in the summer besides a lot of chantrelles.

    The Green River Ferry seems to be non-operational a lot. Call the hotline the day of your drive in to see which route you should take: 270-758-2166

    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.


Guide to South Carthage

Horse camping in Tennessee offers a unique experience for equestrian enthusiasts, combining beautiful landscapes with well-equipped facilities for both riders and their horses.

Tips for equestrian camping near South Carthage, Tennessee

  • The Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground provides horse hitching posts and easy access to trails, making it a great choice for riders looking to explore the area.
  • At Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park, you can enjoy spacious sites designed for horse camping, along with nearby trails that cater to both hikers and horseback riders.
  • Turnhole Backcountry Campsite offers a secluded spot with horse hitches, perfect for those seeking a more primitive camping experience while still accommodating their equine companions.

Most campgrounds have horse-focused amenities like hitching posts and trails

  • Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground features dedicated horse facilities and a network of trails that are well-maintained for equestrian use.
  • The Dale Hollow Lake - Primitive Camping area allows for horse camping with access to beautiful lakeside views and nearby trails for exploration.
  • Barren River Lake Resort Lodge & Cottages includes amenities for horse campers, such as hitching posts and easy access to scenic trails.

Equestrian campers like these nearby activities

  • Riders at Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground can enjoy peaceful trails that wind through the woods, perfect for leisurely rides.
  • Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing and hiking, alongside horse camping.
  • At Turnhole Backcountry Campsite, campers can embark on scenic hikes along the extensive trail system of Mammoth Cave National Park, enhancing their outdoor adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near South Carthage, TN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near South Carthage, TN is Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 47 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near South Carthage, TN?

TheDyrt.com has all 7 equestrian camping locations near South Carthage, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.