Go Horseback Riding in Brown County State Park Indiana

Enjoy Horseback Riding in Brown County State Park Indiana

Horseback Riding

 

Located in South Central Indiana, Brown County is s rural community rich in culture and natural beauty. With its rolling hills, natural forest, and countryside, Brown County is a popular destination for hiking, biking, camping, and much more.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or outdoor adventurer, you'll find something to do in Brown County.

Horseback Riding in Brown County

One popular pastime for visitors and locals is horseback riding around Brown County. Horses and riders can be seen throughout Brown County and can add a fun and exciting activity to your vacation plans in this beautiful area.

Several stables are located in and around Brown County; offering guided horseback rides. If you're looking for an exciting addition to your next local getaway, then consider checking out Brown County State Park.

 

The Brown County State Park is one of the largest state parks in the United States, and it is located on over 15,000 acres of scenic countryside. The state park features over 20 miles of hiking trails and more than 1,500 campsites for visitors to choose from.

There are many places you can go in Brown County for horseback riding, but none is better than Brown County State Park. The park has several camping grounds where one can enjoy horseback riding.

Here is one of the best places you can find horseback riding opportunities in Brown County:

Horseman's Camp Brown County

Located inside the Brown County State Park, Horseman's Camp is a great place to go for a nice ride in the country. Horses and riders can explore the natural beauty of Brown County by taking a guided trail ride at this campground.

Visitors can bring their horses and explore the over 70 miles of equestrian trails. Horseman's Camp offers a fantastic setting for both beginner and experienced riders.

Brown County State Park Horsemen's Camp Entrance S135

There are Day-use parking spots, Class C campsites, and Class A campsites. Horse riding enthusiasts will genuinely enjoy their time at Horseman's Camp.

The sites at horseman camp include:

  • Picnic table
  • Fire ring
  • electric hookup
  • drinking water supply
  • tie-up for six horses

Riders coming with their horses require an annual Horse Tag.

What if I don't have a Horse?

If you don't have a horse and you still wish to go on a ride, Brown County State Park has a Saddle Barn next to the Horseman's Camp.

They offer guided trail rides for visitors daily from 9 to 5. They also have pony rides for kids.

What to know before going on a Horseback Riding tour?

If you are a beginner, you probably would like to take a guided tour with an experienced rider.

If you are experienced and feel comfortable riding off the beaten path, then you might enjoy exploring the 70 miles of trails on your own.

The trails at Brown County State Park range from easy to complex, so make sure to ask for recommendations before going out for a ride.

The following pointers will help get your gallop on the right track.

  • Collect slack on the reins when turning your horse. When your horse goes down to the inside rein, it will step into the turn.
  • Make sure that your mount is in front of your leg when you mount up; this will keep him from leaning on the bit and taking control of the ride.
  • Have soft hands when riding because strong hands can translate to a substantial bit and a firm rein.
  • Keep your heels down and toes up, and keep the ball of your foot over your stirrup to maintain the correct leg position.
  • Always ride to work as a team with your horse so that you both can optimize what you can do together as one united force rather than two opposing forces.

Horseback Riding Safety Tips

Horseback riding in the Brown County State Park can be fun for anyone who desires to take a ride. When you go for a horseback riding tour, make sure that you follow the following safety tips:

  1. Wear a riding helmet

Horses are tall, and when you are up on their back, it is easy to fall or get thrown off, so wearing a riding helmet will protect you in case of an accident.

Accidents happen, and if you are riding on the trails, you will be exposed to many other forms of traffic. If you do not wear a riding helmet, accidents can lead to severe injuries or death.

So put your helmet on before mounting your horse in Brown County State Park.

  1. Always maintain control

Control your horse as you would control yourself, and always keep in mind that the horses might not understand English, so riders should read their body language for instructions on what they want them to do.

  1. Wear the right shoes

If your shoes do not have enough grip, they might come off while you are riding, which can be dangerous for you and your horse. Boots with a rough exterior will give you more grip on the trails.

  1. Routes to avoid taking

When horseback riding, never take routes that you are not sure about or that you have not taken before; this is because if something goes wrong and you end up in an emergency, then it can be difficult for emergency rescue teams to find you because they will not know where to start looking.

You can download the Horse Trails Map from the Brown County State Park website or pick one up at the main entrance.

Always stay close to others and follow the guide and campsite rules so you can all enjoy your ride.

  1. Stay alert

Horseback riding is super fun, but you need to stay alert and listen.

When a horse is galloping, you will not be able to hear anything, so it can be easy for them to get spooked on the trails because they do not have a lot of things that keep them company.

Always ride with someone else, and always let people know where you are going and when you expect to be back.

  1. Know your horse

Always ride with a well-trained horse because they can get easily spooked if the rider does not know how to handle them properly, and there is nothing worse than an animal running without its handler.

Some horses cannot gallop at full speed, so always practice slowly and gallop only when you are comfortable to do so.

Conclusion

Horseback riding is a great way to explore and enjoy the 70 miles of Brown County State Park trails.

If you want to go for a ride, make sure that you bring the right gear; this includes your helmet and shoes and your horse's equipment.

Remember not to go out on an unfamiliar trail or one you haven't taken before, and always keep in mind that accidents can happen at any time.

If you follow those tips, then your horseback riding tour should be safe and fun as well as a great way to see the nature of Brown County State Park.



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