Deam Lake Horse Campground

For Indiana’s passionate equestrian community and nature enthusiasts who enjoy exploring the landscape on horseback, Deam Lake Horse Campground in Borden stands out as a premier destination. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a specialized haven designed to accommodate both campers and their equine companions, offering direct access to an extensive network of scenic trails. Nestled within the beautiful Deam Lake State Recreation Area and bordering Clark State Forest, this campground provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Indiana's natural beauty with your horse by your side, all while enjoying well-maintained facilities.

Deam Lake Horse Campground is located at Deam Lake Horse Campground, Borden, IN 47106, USA. This address places it in Clark County, a picturesque area in southern Indiana. For Hoosiers, its location is quite accessible, especially for those in the southern and central regions of the state. Borden is a small community, and the campground is situated within the larger Deam Lake State Recreation Area, ensuring a natural and serene environment away from urban sprawl.

The State Recreation Area is easily reachable via Indiana’s well-connected state highways and is a manageable drive from larger cities like Indianapolis, Bloomington, and Evansville. The campground's position provides direct lead-outs to over 80 miles of multi-purpose trails that wind through the beautiful Clark State Forest, making it a true horseback rider's paradise. While the specific address points to the horse campground itself, it is part of the broader Deam Lake State Recreation Area, which offers additional recreational opportunities. This blend of accessibility and immersive natural surroundings makes Deam Lake Horse Campground an ideal choice for Indiana equestrians seeking adventure close to home.

Deam Lake Horse Campground offers specific services tailored to the needs of equestrians and their horses, providing a comfortable and convenient base for trail riding adventures.

• Equestrian Electric Campsites: The campground features 63 electric campsites with a hitching post and an additional 36 electric campsites that come with a horse stall, ensuring various options for accommodating horses. These sites include electric hookups for RVs and trailers.

• Horse Stalls: For those reserving stall sites, each stall is well-constructed and often described as "huge" and "clean." Campers are responsible for providing their own bedding (such as pine shavings) and cleaning the stalls upon departure, with designated manure disposal dumpsters provided.

• Hitching Posts: For sites without stalls, sturdy hitching posts are provided, allowing campers to safely secure their horses at their site.

• Modern Restrooms and Showers: The campground boasts "clean restrooms" and "hot water showers" within modern comfort stations, a significant convenience for campers after a day on the trails. At least one shower station is wheelchair accessible.

• Drinking Water/Fill Station: Potable water is available at central fill stations within the horse campground area. It's important to note that water to the horse camp may be shut off beginning in November due to winterization, requiring campers to fetch water from the main office during the off-season.

• Camper Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available for RVs, providing a convenient way to dispose of wastewater.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor meals and evening campfires.

• Parking Spurs: Sites provide parking spurs for vehicles and horse trailers.

• On-Site Store: While not extensively detailed, some reviews mention a "nice little store on site" where items like ice might be available, adding convenience for campers.

• Reservations: Campsites are available for reservation up to six months in advance through Camp.IN.gov or by phone, which is highly recommended due to popularity.

Deam Lake Horse Campground stands out with several key features that make it a favorite among Indiana equestrians and outdoor enthusiasts.

• Extensive Trail System: The most significant highlight is direct access to "nice trails" that connect to an impressive 80 miles of multi-purpose trails within Clark State Forest. These trails range from well-marked to challenging with "steep climbs," offering diverse experiences for riders of all skill levels. Reviews frequently praise the trails as "excellent" and "well maintained."

• Dedicated Equestrian Facilities: The availability of both hitching posts and large, clean horse stalls directly at campsites is a major draw, providing convenience and peace of mind for horse owners. This focus on equine needs truly sets it apart.

• Clean and Well-Maintained Amenities: Campers consistently commend the "clean restrooms" and showers, which are crucial for a comfortable stay after a long day of riding. The overall campground is noted for its cleanliness and well-thought-out design.

• Scenic Beauty: The campground is nestled in a beautiful natural setting, with a "really nice view of the lake" (Deam Lake) and trails that wind through lush forests and along ridge tops, offering picturesque vistas.

• Year-Round Camping: While water services may be seasonal, the campground itself is open year-round, allowing dedicated equestrians to enjoy the trails and camping even in cooler months.

• Proximity to Deam Lake: Although the horse campground is distinct, it benefits from its location within Deam Lake State Recreation Area, meaning campers can potentially access the 194-acre lake for fishing (electric trolling motor only), boating (rentals available seasonally), and swimming at the beach (Memorial Day-Labor Day).

• Access to Knobstone Trail: Deam Lake SRA serves as a trailhead for portions of the rugged Knobstone Trail, Indiana's longest hiking trail, offering additional challenging terrain for avid hikers (though horses are generally on separate trails or specific multi-use trails).

• Helpful Management: While not explicitly reviewed for this specific campground, state park properties often have attentive staff or camp hosts who can assist with inquiries and maintenance, as seen in other Indiana DNR facilities.

For those planning a visit to Deam Lake Horse Campground or needing to make reservations, here is the contact information:

Address: Deam Lake Horse Campground, Borden, IN 47106, USA

Phone: For reservations and general information regarding Indiana State Parks and Recreation Areas, it is best to use the statewide reservation system or the main office number for Deam Lake State Recreation Area.

Main Office: (812) 246-5421

Reservations: 1-866-6CAMPIN (1-866-622-6746) or online at Camp.IN.gov

Note: Always check the official Indiana DNR website or call ahead for the most current information on trail conditions, water availability (especially in off-season), and any specific regulations regarding Coggins tests for horses.

For Indiana locals with a passion for horseback riding and camping, Deam Lake Horse Campground in Borden is undeniably a highly suitable and cherished destination. Its core appeal lies in its specialized infrastructure that truly caters to equestrians, offering the essential amenities of electric hookups, clean facilities, and crucially, options for either hitching posts or dedicated horse stalls right at the campsite. This thoughtful design, combined with direct access to "miles of nice trails" within the beautiful Clark State Forest, creates an unparalleled experience for riding and enjoying nature with your horse. While seasonal water availability in the horse camp during winter months is a minor consideration, the overall positive experience of "beautiful" surroundings, "nice trails," and "clean restrooms" consistently makes it a favorite. Deam Lake Horse Campground allows Hoosier equestrians to fully immerse themselves in the state's natural beauty, providing a unique and well-supported environment for their beloved horses and an unforgettable outdoor adventure close to home.

Deam Lake Horse Campground

Deam Lake Horse Campground, Borden, IN 47106, USA