The equestrian campground at Carter Caves State Resort Park connects to a broader trail system in Kentucky's Appalachian foothills. Located approximately 45 minutes from East Lynn Lake, the area offers diverse terrain for horse riders with varying skill levels. Trail systems throughout the region provide multiple options for equestrian camping trips with facilities designed specifically for those traveling with horses.
What to do
Fishing at Dewey Lake: German Bridge campground provides easy lake access for anglers. "If you like catfishing, this is your Lake," notes David O., who describes the water conditions as typically muddy but productive.
Cave exploration: Carter Caves State Resort Park features multiple cave systems with ranger-guided tours. "Lots to do hiking, fishing, caves and caverns to explore," reports Ron & Bonnie D., who recommend the educational aspect of the experience. Chris B. adds, "Grab a ranger-guided tour and learn something! Great for the kids!"
Kayaking at Lake Vesuvius: The small lake at Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area offers peaceful paddling opportunities. "Great place to camp and kayak," reports Neal C., who recommends camping at least 150 feet from the trail. For shoreline access, the Whiskey Run Trail "offers just enough lake access to let your dogs swim or to put a pole in the water," according to Brew W.
Horseback riding: Horse campgrounds near East Lynn Lake provide specific facilities for equestrian campers. The stables and trails at German Bridge - Dewey Lake include boarding options. "For an extra fee ($15 I think, we don't have horses) you could board your horse in the barn," explains Stephanie T.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer more secluded camping experiences. "Most of the sites shaded and separated by trees. Love the privacy this provides," writes Chris S. about Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius. Jackson B. adds, "Unlike a lot of campgrounds they're actually within the woods so you feel like you're actually part of the forest."
Accessibility to trails: Many horse campgrounds near East Lynn Lake connect directly to trail systems. "Good campground, great hiking," notes Corey M., who highlights the short but rewarding Rockhouse Trail with its "nice rock house at the end, as well as interpretive signage that sheds light on Ohio's iron industry and history."
Equestrian-specific amenities: The equestrian facilities include dedicated space for horse trailers and stables. "The equestrian sites are full hookups and able to accommodate large rigs with pull through sites," reports Robert H. about Carter Caves' equestrian campground.
Natural features: The landscape around East Lynn Lake includes rock formations and water features. "There's a hidden gem of a cave/overhang along one of the hiking trails," mentions Corey M.
What you should know
Water and electric hookup challenges: Several campgrounds have unusual utility setups. "You will need extra water hose and extension cords to get hooked up in a lot of the sites," advises Ron & Bonnie D. At Greenbo Lake State Resort Park, Charles D. warns, "Had showed up at site with no electricity available. Was told had to share box but only one 30 and one 50 amp."
Water quality concerns: Some lakes in the region have water quality issues. One reviewer cautioned about Dewey Lake at Jenny Wiley State Park: "DO NOT DRINK THE WATER FROM THIS LAKE... AND DON'T SWIM IN IT EITHER!"
Site selection matters: Research site locations carefully before booking. "Some sites are more difficult for parking a camper than others," notes Wendi L., while Jackie D. mentions, "The sites are spread apart enough so you aren't right beside someone - and shaded."
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds close during winter months, with typical operating seasons from April through October.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Ole Henry's Camping retreat offers multiple attractions for children. "The playground area has a nice swing set and a couple big wooden play structures. There is plain drain pipe slides coming off one of the hillsides that is a kid favorite," shares Andrew S.
Swimming options: Look for designated swimming areas with gentle shorelines. "The creek nearby offers up a good, safe swimming hole for all the kids and adults," according to Andrew S.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several parks feature wildlife viewing areas. At Ole Henry's, "There is a pony that lives on the site and is very friendly. It scavenges for free food and the children love it," adds Andrew S.
Varied terrain for all ages: Trails with different difficulty levels accommodate families. Chris B. recommends Carter Caves State Resort Park: "The park has a lot to do, not just the caves. There's tons of waterfalls off the trails, and other things to see."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: The mountainous terrain creates uneven sites at many campgrounds. "Site was NOT very level. On gravel," reports Felicia H. about Ashland Huntington West KOA. Liz notes that at Lake Vesuvius, "Some sites are sloped from slight to more severe. We did have to take our camper off our truck in order to get level."
Water pressure issues: Check water connections upon arrival. "Beautiful place to camp... but the water pressure was extremely high," warns Wendi L.
Size restrictions: Narrow roads limit access for larger rigs in some areas. "The roads are narrow and windy," notes Robert H. about the equestrian campground at Carter Caves.
Extension cord requirements: Pack extra extension cords for sites with distant electrical hookups. Autumn L. shares, "The only issue was that some of the sites were around 50 ft from the electric hook up."
