Bell Farm Horse Camp, located within the Stearns District of the Daniel Boone National Forest, offers equestrian campers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Situated near the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, this camp is an ideal spot for horseback riders and history enthusiasts alike.
A Restful Retreat for Wagon Train Riders
Bell Farm Horse Camp has long been a favored rest stop for wagon train riders traversing Kentucky’s scenic landscapes. Its tranquil setting, surrounded by the lush greenery of the national forest, provides an inviting atmosphere for campers looking to “rest a spell” after a day on the trails.
The camp is strategically located near some of the best hiking and horseback riding trails in the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, offering ample opportunities for exploration. Whether you’re looking to embark on a challenging ride through the wilderness or a leisurely hike along the river, Bell Farm is the perfect base camp for your adventures.
A Legacy of History and Conservation
The history of Bell Farm is deeply intertwined with the region’s past. In the early 1900s, this area was a bustling logging and mining town, playing a crucial role in the local economy. During the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) established a camp here, contributing to the conservation and development of the surrounding lands. The walnut trees that grace the landscape today were planted in 1953, serving as living reminders of the area’s rich history and commitment to conservation.
Equestrian Camping Alongside a State Wild River
Rock Creek, a designated State Wild River, flows alongside Bell Farm Horse Camp, adding to the site’s natural allure. Anglers can enjoy fishing in these pristine waters, but be sure to obtain a Kentucky fishing license from the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources before casting your line.
For equestrians, Bell Farm offers well-equipped camping facilities designed to accommodate horses and riders alike. It’s essential to remember that a negative Coggins test or similar proof of equine infectious anemia, along with a valid certificate of veterinary inspection, is required by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. These measures ensure the safety and health of all horses visiting the camp.
Experience Bell Farm’s Blend of Nature and History
Bell Farm Horse Camp isn’t just a place to pitch a tent or park your trailer; it’s a portal to Kentucky’s natural and cultural heritage. As you ride through the trails, fish in the clear waters of Rock Creek, or simply relax under the shade of the walnut trees, you’re surrounded by the echoes of the past and the serene beauty of the present.
Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or a history buff, Bell Farm Horse Camp offers an enriching experience that combines outdoor recreation with a deep connection to the land’s storied past. Make Bell Farm your next destination and immerse yourself in the captivating charm of Kentucky’s Daniel Boone National Forest.
Directions:
Take US 27 to KY 92. Go 5.3 miles to KY 1363; turn left and go 11.4 miles to the end of the blacktop. Turn left and go 0.2-mile to the camp on the left.
Bell Farm Horse Camp offers the following facilities and amenities:
- Equestrian trails
- Camping trailers
- Picnic tables
- Vault toilets
- Parking area
Cost Details:
- Free to use.
Rules and Regulations:
- Do not tie horses to the trees. Riding, hitching, tethering or hobbling a horse or other saddle or back animal in violation of posted instructions is prohibited.
- Campers only 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.
- All tents and equipment must be located within the designated site.
- All vehicles must be on marked sites.
- Use designated parking lots if available.
- Please throughly clean up manure, hay and garbage before you leave.
- Use Forest Service fire rings for all fires. Your fire must be dead out before leaving. Obey all posted fire
- Restrictions.
- Negative Coggins Test Required. The Kentucky Department of Agriculture requires a negative Coggins or similar test for equine infectious anemia and a valid certificate of veterinary inspection.
- Contact Details: 712.889.2215 and parksinfo@woodburyparks.org
Notes:
- Open Dates: April 1 to Nov. 15
- Five sites. Accommodates small RVs. No hookups or dump sites.
- No drinking water. Water is available for horses from Rock Creek.
- Vault toilet at campground (open seasonally) meets accessibility standards for persons with disabilities.
- No trash pick up is available. Pack it in - Pack it out. Help keep the campground clean.
If you want to discover and explore other campsites and horse trails, here are some of them that you may visit:
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Bell Farm Horse Camp does not require reservations for overnight accommodations. Please visit their page here on Top Horse Trails - Bell Farm Horse Camp for more information