Chickasaw State Park offers equestrian camping facilities within driving distance of Henning, Tennessee. The park spans nearly 15,000 acres of state forest with Lake Placid at its center. Most equestrian camping areas in this region provide direct trail access, with terrain varying from flat meadows to wooded hillsides depending on the specific campground location.
What to do
Geocaching adventures: Chickasaw State Park features geocaching opportunities throughout its trail system. Amanda F. notes, "This park has camping, hiking trails, horse back riding and geocaching just to name a few things to do here."
Water recreation: The park's lake provides multiple recreation options during warmer months. William mentions, "Excellent campgrounds, for both tent and RV, and the lake felt amazing." Visitors can enjoy paddling, swimming, and fishing in designated areas.
Horseback riding trails: Chickasaw State Park Campground maintains dedicated bridle paths throughout the property. Nancy N. shares, "This is a great place to go RV camping, tent camping or even wrangler camping. It is a quiet park with hiking, biking, horseback riding, boating, swimming, and much more."
Wildlife viewing: The park's nature center houses birds of prey displays and other wildlife exhibits. Jeremy H. observed, "They even have three birds of prey on display for visitors to enjoy." These educational features enhance the natural experience of camping in the area.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The clear night skies above Lake Placid provide excellent stargazing conditions. Jeremy H. recalls, "My son and I enjoyed walking out into the middle of the lake and seeing the expanse of the Milky Way (what a treat!)."
Well-maintained fire rings: Chickasaw State Park Campground provides quality fire rings and sells exceptional firewood. Jeremy H. reports, "There's great firewood for sale at the stables for $6.00 a box. This is the best campfire wood I've ever purchased. It burned slow and steady."
Helpful staff: Park rangers provide assistance to ensure campers have positive experiences. Jeremy H. mentions, "From our arrival to the moment we left, the rangers and staff made us feel welcomed and safe. Ranger Brittany helped me find the perfect site and even checked in later to make sure that we were completely satisfied."
Clean facilities: Most campers appreciate the well-maintained bathhouses. Nikki W. notes, "Nice campground with clean bathhouse. We arrived very late at night and the staff were very nice and helpful."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity can be challenging at some horse campgrounds near Henning. Don L. points out, "Only negatives were a steep incline to back into site, no cell service and pay as you go park WiFi."
Reservation system: Agricenter International RV Park and other area campgrounds operate with straightforward check-in procedures. Gary P. explains, "You got a reservation, then just got to the site & yur name & date will be on the post." This self-service approach applies to most equestrian camping areas.
Varying site layouts: Campground topography differs significantly between loops. Gary P. observes, "The trailer/RV loop is on the side of a hill. It was amazing the way they got so many half way level sites into this area. Very, very tight."
Seasonal considerations: Some facilities have limited availability or maintenance issues during certain times. Rachel H. cautions, "The water was BROWN. very dirty." Always check current conditions before planning trips to swimming areas.
Tips for camping with families
Pack appropriate lighting: Cook's Lake RV Resort and Campground and other facilities have limited lighting on trails and common areas. Jeremy H. advises, "Don't forget to bring a good lantern or flashlight with you: you will need it since many of the trails to the bathroom and out to the pier are very dark at night."
Visit during weekdays: For families seeking quieter camping experiences at horse campgrounds near Henning, Tennessee, weekday visits typically offer less crowded conditions. Paul C. notes, "This was great from a sleeping standpoint (no one was ever loud)."
Plan for weather exposure: Some campgrounds offer limited shade or weather protection. Paul C. cautions about one location, "Exposed. In the sun, rain, wind, etc. It was an old mobile-home park, so very exposed to elements."
Allow extra time: Jeremy H. suggests, "I would suggest spending at least two nights here. We only spent one, and my son and I didn't want to leave. There's so much we didn't get to see and do at this park."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For RVs visiting equestrian campgrounds, choose sites carefully based on terrain. Gary P. recommends, "A nice flat area more suited to larger rigs. Some, as was ours are very, very close together. Most are pretty level and easy access."
Location advantages: When visiting Agricenter International RV Park, proximity to urban amenities compensates for campground limitations. Brent M. notes, "Full hookups and convenient location. We have stayed there several times."
Safety considerations: Security varies between campgrounds. For those concerned about safety while equestrian camping near Henning, Paul C. shares about one location: "This is next to police academy, and has several students living in it - never felt danger here."
Extended stay options: Some RV parks accommodate longer-term visitors. M.E. explains, "They are full hookup sites and offer up to 3 months of stay."
