Natchez Trace Wrangler Camp sits within the 48,000-acre Natchez Trace State Park system, about 20 miles northeast of Henderson, Tennessee. The dedicated equestrian camping area connects directly to over 250 miles of bridle trails through hardwood forests at elevations ranging from 350 to 650 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with temperatures between 60-75°F.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: Natchez Trace Wrangler Camp provides direct access to extensive bridle trails that wind through the park's forested terrain. "The campground's central position allows for convenient daily rides without trailering horses to separate locations," with riders appreciating well-maintained paths. Visitors should bring their own containment systems as the park does not provide horse corrals.
Fishing opportunities: Pin Oak Campground offers fishing access at Pin Oak Lake. "There are a few lakes in the area. Pin Oak is the only motor lake," notes one camper. Browns Creek Lake also has "honest system rentals of Jon boat but for fishing purposes only and you have to pay for a lake permit."
Swimming and beach time: Chickasaw State Park Campground provides water recreation options during warm months. "Excellent campgrounds, for both tent and RV, and the lake felt amazing," reports one visitor. Another mentions "Cub lake has a larger swim area with paddle boat, Jon boat and kayak rentals. The rentals are only weekends."
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: Big Hill Pond State Park Campground offers excellent night sky viewing. "This is a dark sky area, so come during the new moon phase for views of the Milky Way!" advises one camper. The remote location with minimal light pollution creates ideal stargazing conditions from spring through fall.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Horse camping near Henderson provides opportunities to observe local wildlife. "We loved swimming and kayaking at Cub Creek Lake," notes one visitor who enjoyed the natural setting. Another mentions: "Plenty of activities in the park and close to some Civil war battlefields."
Peace and quiet: The equestrian camping areas around Henderson offer a secluded experience. "Super quiet, dark and cool the first week of October. We stayed in the Wrangler site, which is typically for horses," notes one camper. Another reports: "We had a peaceful weekend in our little pop-up amongst all the big 5th wheels and buses."
What you should know
Restroom and shower conditions vary: Bathroom facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. "Pin Oak Lake Campground is very nice. Well maintained with full hookups and plenty of space separating the sites," reports one camper. Meanwhile, at other sites: "our primitive loop bathrooms were filled with caterpillars. I bet the RV sites have better kept bathrooms!"
Limited cell service: Milan City RV Park and other sites in the region have limited connectivity. "There is virtually no Verizon service except close the water front," notes one visitor. Plan accordingly for offline navigation and communication during your stay.
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian camping areas require advance booking. "We had to book through recreation.gov app, which was easy enough, but misleading on what sites are booked and not booked," explains one camper. Reserve sites at least 2-4 weeks ahead during peak season (April-October).
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. "There is a small playground close to the entrance. Lots of hiking trails and a fire tower that you can climb! We love the boardwalk trail!" shares one visitor to Big Hill Pond State Park. Another notes their children "enjoyed riding their bikes and playing on the small beach."
Geocaching opportunities: Natchez Trace Wrangler Camp and surrounding areas offer geocaching for family activities. "This park has camping, hiking trails, horse back riding and geocaching just to name a few things to do here," reports one visitor. Bring your GPS device or smartphone app to participate.
Educational wildlife exhibits: Some parks feature wildlife displays suitable for children. "They even have three birds of prey on display for visitors to enjoy," shares one camper. These exhibits provide learning opportunities about local ecosystems and conservation.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: When bringing an RV for horse camping, carefully review site specifications. "Not for large RV's over 26 feet. Great hiking," warns one camper about Big Hill Pond. Another notes: "We stayed in the Wrangler site, which is typically for horses. (ATV's not allowed)."
Supplies and provisions: Stock up before arriving at equestrian camping areas. "Take plenty of food as a trip to the store is a bit of a drive," advises one RV camper. Most horse camps are 15-30 minutes from the nearest grocery stores or supply shops.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations affect camping comfort. "It was ok. We chose a group site. It was difficult to stake our tent due to the massive root systems," notes one camper who encountered challenges with ground conditions. RVers should bring leveling blocks as many sites have slight grades or uneven terrain.
