Mammoth Cave National Park and surrounding areas provide diverse equestrian camping options within driving distance of Portland, Tennessee. The region features limestone karst topography with over 400 miles of surveyed cave passages. Winter temperatures average 30-50°F while summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Trail exploration on horseback: Maple Springs Campground in Mammoth Cave National Park connects directly to multiple trail networks. "The trails are used by hikers and horseback riders, are well marked and lotsa fauna to see. No major vistas here, just woods," notes reviewer Shelly S., who appreciates the campground's accessibility to natural areas.
Cave tours: While at Mammoth Cave Campground, schedule underground explorations. "Reserve the all day guided tour with crawling about in small spaces for the best experience. Make sure your boots have enough tread or you won't be allowed to do the tour!" advises Dan X. Tours fill quickly during peak seasons, requiring reservations 1-2 weeks in advance.
Water recreation: Barren River Lake State Resort Park offers boating opportunities 45 minutes from Portland. "LOTS of boating options. Bring your own or rent. The lake is huge and busy with a marina," writes reviewer Shelly S. The park maintains a swimming beach accessible by car from the campground area.
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: Many horse campgrounds near Portland, Tennessee provide opportunities to observe local fauna. At Mammoth Cave Campground, "Fireflies are great at night. Frogs are singing in the evening. Tons of trees and shade," according to Veronica S.
Communal atmosphere: Dad's Bluegrass Campground creates a welcoming environment for travelers. "Truly the nicest folks I have met at campground so far. All lots are pull through. They have a huge pavilion for events, nice pool, showers, and very clean restrooms," shares Mike F. The campground offers social gathering spaces including an indoor area with TV, DVDs, and books.
Backcountry solitude: Turnhole Backcountry Campsite provides a more isolated experience. "This is a nice, secluded spot. You are on the end of a ridge. Clear nights with a bright moon were magical here," writes Mandy C. The site includes basic amenities like a tent pad, lantern hooks, horse hitches, and a fire ring with grate.
What you should know
Varying shower conditions: Facilities differ between equestrian camping areas near Portland. At Barren River Lake Resort, "The showers are newer, air conditioned and clean. Showers are spacious with seating and wall hooks. Luke warm water, which definitely makes for quick showers!"
Ticks and insects: Prepare for bugs, especially in spring and early summer. At Maple Springs Campground, one camper warns, "The park is infested with seed ticks and deer ticks. I was pulling ticks off of every inch of me even though I was coated in several layers of hardcore bug spray and my gear had been treated with permethrin."
Water access limitations: Some sites require planning for water supplies. 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."
Tips for camping with families
Check ferry status: The Green River Ferry provides access to northern trail networks but operates conditionally. "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," recommends Mandy C.
Consider lodge options: For families seeking additional comfort while enjoying horse trails, Barren River Lake Resort Lodge & Cottages provides alternatives to tent camping. "The food at lodge very excellent," notes Erin R., who appreciated having cabin options with nearby beach access.
Pack entertainment options: Evening activities may be limited at some horse camps. At Mammoth Cave Campground, one camper noted, "Only downside is maybe the camp store closes really early. I think maybe 5? By the time we got there our first day it was closed, so my son was bummed we couldn't have a fire."
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: At Dad's Bluegrass Campground, arrival routes require attention. "Watch the approach since you could head into the truck stop - stay to the right and you will be ok. I used the truck stop to fill up on the way out and it was OK," advises Charlie M.
Water hookup challenges: Some sites present connection difficulties. Jon P. notes at Dad's Bluegrass, "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."
Campground layout navigation: At Mammoth Cave Horse Camp, the arrangement accommodates both horses and camping vehicles. "There is an area in the 'back' to park your rig and set up your glamping area. Stalls if your horse likes it fancy," explains Shelly S., highlighting the specialized layout for equestrian campers.
