Hoosier National Forest - Hickory Ridge Campground and Trails

Highlights

If you want long-mileage Hoosier riding with a wonderfully unfussy horse-camp base, Hickory Ridge is a standout.

Riding

Nearly 49 miles of trail give Hickory Ridge real depth. The network includes easier ridge sections and more demanding ravine country, so the experience can be tailored from laid-back mileage to a more athletic full-day ride.

Rideable terrain

48.7 miles

Trailer parking

Primitive horse campground with day-use trailer parking, hitching racks, and livestock water in a forested staging area

Horse regulations

A Hoosier National Forest horse permit is required where applicable, riders should follow forest rules and posted trail conditions, and certain segments can close temporarily for safety or maintenance. Multi-use etiquette matters throughout the system.

Getting here

The campground and staging area are intentionally horse friendly rather than polished, which works in the site’s favor. Trailer parking, hitching infrastructure, and livestock water create a very functional base for riders ready to camp and ride without excessive ceremony.

Planning your visit

Come with maps, enough water, and the mindset for a genuinely trail-centric weekend. Hickory Ridge is best when you embrace the rustic setup, monitor current alerts before hauling in, and give yourself enough time to enjoy the range of loop options.

Where to stay

Primitive horse camping is central here, and that simplicity is part of the charm. Riders who like campfire evenings, early starts, and a trail-focused social atmosphere will find Hickory Ridge especially easy to love.