Hoosier National Forest - Youngs Creek Campground and Trails

Highlights

A scenic, manageable Hoosier horse camp that feels welcoming for relaxed overnights and easy trail-focused weekends.

Riding

The 12.7-mile system offers a satisfying amount of trail through shaded woods and varied terrain. It is enough to feel like a true ride destination, but not so enormous that casual or mixed-experience groups feel overwhelmed.

Rideable terrain

12.7 miles

Trailer parking

Primitive horse camp with trailer parking, picnic shelter, and straightforward staging close to the trailhead

Horse regulations

Forest rules and horse permit requirements should be reviewed before travel, and riders should check current trail conditions because weather and maintenance can shape the route experience. Multi-use awareness is part of riding here well.

Getting here

The primitive campground is practical and clearly geared toward trail users. Trailer parking, nearby access, and simple support features make the arrival process easy enough that the site works well even for riders who do not want to overcomplicate the trip.

Planning your visit

Youngs Creek is at its best when treated as an easy, scenic horse-camp escape. Pack for a simple overnight, plan a moderate loop strategy, and consider pairing it with a more polished stay nearby if you want rustic riding with a softer evening finish.

Where to stay

Primitive horse camping is available, which immediately upgrades Youngs Creek from day stop to weekend option. The nearby French Lick/Paoli area also gives riders an easy path to nicer lodging, dining, and spa-style comforts if they want to split the experience.