6 Best Places To Go Camping With Your Horse

As a horse lover, you know that camping with your favorite equine offers a unique opportunity to explore the great outdoors while deepening the bond with your horse. There are many breathtaking destinations where you can pitch your tent, saddle up, and embark on an unforgettable adventure. Here are six remarkable places across the US where you can immerse yourself in nature while camping with your horse.

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Tennessee, Kentucky

• The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is a haven for equestrian enthusiasts. With over 180 miles of trails meandering through sandstone bluffs, dense forests, and scenic river valleys, this park offers an ideal setting for horseback riding and camping. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a novice, the rugged beauty of Big South Fork promises an unforgettable equestrian camping experience.

Ocala National Forest, Florida

• Spanning over 600 square miles in central Florida, the Ocala National Forest offers a diverse landscape of pine forests, crystal-clear springs, and pristine lakes. Camp at one of the forest's horse-friendly campgrounds, such as Big Scrub Campground or Lake Delancy West Campground, and spend your days riding through woodlands and cooling off in natural springs. With its year-round mild climate and stunning scenery, Ocala National Forest is a must-visit destination for horse camping enthusiasts!

Yosemite National Park, California

• Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Yosemite National Park from your horse's saddle. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, Yosemite is renowned for its granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and ancient sequoia forests. The park's backcountry trails are primarily reserved for hikers, but equestrians can explore designated horse trails in the Yosemite Valley and Wawona areas. With its iconic landmarks and beautiful vistas, Yosemite offers an unforgettable camping experience for horse lovers.

Shawnee National Forest, Illinois

• Check out the hidden gem of Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois, where you can ride amongst rugged bluffs, lush forests, and scenic rivers. With over 400 miles of trails winding through the forest, you can explore a diverse landscape of rocky outcrops, serene lakes, and cascading waterfalls. Whether you're riding through tranquil woodlands or along rocky ridges, Shawnee National Forest offers an immersive equestrian camping experience in the heart of the Midwest.

Glacier National Park, Montana

• Journey to the rugged wilderness of Glacier National Park in Montana for a horseback camping adventure unlike any other! Spanning over 1 million acres of pristine wilderness, Glacier is home to massive mountains, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. While the park's backcountry trails are primarily reserved for hikers, equestrians can explore designated horse trails in the Apgar and Many Glacier areas. With its dramatic landscapes and untouched beauty, Glacier National Park offers a truly unforgettable camping experience for horse enthusiasts.

Red River Gorge Geological Area, Kentucky

• Escape to the rugged beauty of Red River Gorge Geological Area in eastern Kentucky for a horseback camping adventure you'll never forget! Known for its towering sandstone cliffs, lush forests, and scenic waterfalls, Red River Gorge offers endless opportunities for exploration on horseback. Whether you're navigating rocky terrain or meandering through peaceful valleys, Red River Gorge promises an immersive equestrian camping experience in the heart of Appalachia.

From Big South Fork's rugged landscapes to Glacier National Park's pristine wilderness, these six destinations offer incredible opportunities for horseback camping adventures across the United States. Whether you're exploring old-growth forests, traversing rocky ridges, or riding along scenic rivers, camping with your horse allows you to experience the beauty of nature in a truly unique way. So saddle up, pack your saddlebags, and embark on an unforgettable journey into the great outdoors!