Natchez Trace Wrangler Camp serves as a specialized equestrian camping option in Natchez Trace State Park located 15 miles northeast of Lexington, Tennessee. The campground sits within a 48,000-acre forested area at elevations ranging from 500-600 feet. Weather conditions vary seasonally with hot, humid summers where temperatures commonly reach 90°F and mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures, affecting trail conditions for horse riders.
What to do
Trail riding beyond the campground: While Natchez Trace Wrangler Camp connects directly to horse trails, visitors can explore additional riding opportunities at Chickasaw State Park which offers diverse terrain. "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," notes camper Nancy N.
Fishing at nearby lakes: Multiple fishing locations exist within a short drive. "There is a large lake on the campground that has a beach and swimming area. With your stay at the campground you do not have to pay for a permit to go fishing or kayaking on the lake or put in a boat," says Shelby B. about Pin Oak Campground in the same state park.
Historical exploration: Visit nearby Hurricane Mills to explore regional history. "The best part of our stay was the tour of the plantation and Loretta Lynn's Museum," reports Debra F. who stayed at Loretta Lynn's Ranch, located approximately 45 minutes from Lexington.
What campers like
Peaceful atmosphere: Many horse campers appreciate the tranquility during weekdays. "Completely Empty on a Fall Tuesday. Nice trails right out of campground. Meant for horse camping but no horses (or anyone but Host)," writes Susan M. about her stay at Natchez Trace Wrangler Camp.
Dark skies for stargazing: The area offers excellent night sky viewing opportunities away from city lights. "This is a dark sky area, so come during the new moon phase for views of the Milky Way!" suggests Shana D. who camped at Big Hill Pond State Park, another equestrian-friendly option in the region.
Spacious camping areas: Horse campers need room for their trailers and equipment, which these specialized campgrounds provide. "Wow! Super quiet, dark and cool the first week of October. We stayed in the Wrangler site, which is typically for horses," reports Mr. H. about his experience at Natchez Trace Wrangler Camp.
What you should know
Reservation system limitations: The online booking platform sometimes shows inaccurate availability. "We had to book through recreation.gov app, which was easy enough, but misleading on what sites are booked and not booked," notes Mr. H. about his experience at Natchez Trace Wrangler Camp.
Limited cell service: Connectivity can be spotty throughout the region's equestrian campgrounds. "There is virtually no Verizon service except close the water front," Jennifer K. mentions about her stay at Pin Oak Campground.
Weekend crowding: Horse campgrounds near Lexington see significant weekend traffic compared to weekdays. "On the way back from Pickett State Park, to Texas, we decided to stay at the Wrangler site again. This time, I picked a new pad (56) and again, it was dark, quiet and beautiful," shares Mr. H., suggesting midweek visits offer more solitude.
Tips for camping with families
Check swimming conditions before promising lake activities: Water clarity varies throughout the season. "The lake was pretty muddy and warm, so not great for swimming, but the people were very friendly and the bathrooms were clean and large," explains Mandy J. about her stay at Pin Oak Campground.
Bring activities for non-riding family members: Not everyone rides horses. "The boardwalks and observation deck were really fun for the kids, but most of the trails were too long for us so we didn't see the whole park," says Kim B. about Big Hill Pond State Park Campground.
Pack food supplies for extended stays: Grocery options require driving distance from most equestrian campgrounds. "Take plenty of food as a trip to the store is a bit of a drive," advises Randy C. about staying at Pin Oak Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Choose RV sites carefully when visiting equestrian campgrounds. "Nice level campsites with white rock. Primitive camping, no water or electric. Not big enough for RVs," warns Molly W. about Big Hill Pond State Park.
Prepare for varied hookup options: Some campgrounds offer limited services. "Our 38' RV was easy to park on the generous pad," reports Randy C. about Pin Oak Campground, which provides full hookups unlike some other equestrian facilities in the area.
Bring leveling equipment: The terrain around Lexington's horse camps often requires adjustments. "After I leveled it the bottom of the front steps had a 2 foot drop and the rear were on the ground. The slope made the sewage hook up a nightmare," shares Ian O. about his experience at Loretta Lynn's Ranch.
