Harden's Horse Camp

For many Hoosier equestrians and outdoor enthusiasts, the call of Indiana's scenic trails is undeniable. If you're searching for the perfect basecamp to explore the Hoosier National Forest on horseback, look no further than Harden's Horse Camp in Norman, Indiana. This dedicated horse camp is a gem for those who cherish a tranquil, well-maintained environment for both themselves and their equine companions. It's designed to provide a comfortable and convenient experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of our state.

Harden's Horse Camp is more than just a place to park your trailer; it's a community for riders who appreciate a clean, quiet, and welcoming atmosphere. The owners, Harrison and Bobbie Harden, are frequently praised by visitors for their friendly demeanor and helpfulness, often going the extra mile to ensure a pleasant stay. With a limited number of spots, this camp offers a more intimate and less crowded experience compared to larger facilities, making it ideal for those seeking peace and quiet after a day on the trails. Many repeat visitors consider it their "new second home" when exploring Indiana's vast network of horse trails.

While the vast majority of feedback for Harden's Horse Camp is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the excellent facilities and friendly owners, it is important for potential visitors to be aware of certain policies. One review mentioned a "no refund" policy for reservations, even in cases of cancellation. The camp's website and direct communications confirm a "no refund" policy, with only reschedules offered. This is a common practice for some smaller, specialized campgrounds, but it's crucial for guests to understand this policy upfront when making reservations. The camp explicitly states that full payment is required for all nights reserved, and that they do not offer refunds or reschedules for cancellations. This ensures that the limited, highly sought-after spots are reserved by committed campers.

Despite this strict policy, the quality of the camping experience, the pristine condition of the facilities, and the direct access to the expansive Hoosier National Forest trails continue to make Harden's Horse Camp a highly recommended destination for horse lovers across Indiana and beyond. Its focus on providing a dedicated and well-cared-for environment for both riders and their horses sets it apart as a premier choice for equestrian camping in the region.

Harden's Horse Camp is conveniently situated at 5551 Hickory Grove Rd, Norman, IN 47264, USA. Nestled in the scenic landscape of Southern Indiana, the camp offers direct access to the extensive trail system of the Hoosier National Forest. This is a significant advantage for equestrian enthusiasts, as it means you can ride directly from your campsite onto hundreds of miles of designated horse trails without the need to trailer your horses daily.

Norman, Indiana, is a charming and peaceful rural area, perfect for a quiet retreat. While the camp's rural setting contributes to its serene atmosphere, visitors should be aware that some roads leading to the camp, particularly Hickory Grove Road, can be narrow with sharp, blind corners. It is advisable for those with large living quarters horse trailers to exercise caution and perhaps review the directions provided by the camp directly. The camp's website provides specific directions: From State Road 446, turn east onto State Road 58, and proceed 6.5 miles toward Norman to the only STOP sign. From the sign, turn left and proceed 3/10 miles then turn west onto County Road 1250 West. Continue on 1250 West for 2 miles to Hickory Grove Road. The camp is located on the right. This detailed guidance helps ensure a smoother arrival.

The camp's proximity to the Hoosier National Forest means you are at the doorstep of a vast natural playground. The Hoosier National Forest boasts over 200 miles of trails suitable for equestrian use, often shared with mountain bikers and hikers. Popular trails nearby include the Hickory Ridge Trail system, offering diverse terrain. Additionally, the camp is approximately 70 miles south of Indianapolis and 70 miles north of Louisville, Kentucky, making it a feasible destination for many residents within and around Indiana. Bloomington is about 24 miles away and Bedford is around 22 miles, providing access to towns for supplies or other needs.

• Dedicated Campsites: Harden's Horse Camp offers 10 gravel-padded campsites, each designed to accommodate both campers and their horses comfortably. These sites are spacious, ensuring privacy and ample room for your setup.
• Electric and Water Hookups: Every campsite is equipped with electric and water hookups, providing essential conveniences for a comfortable stay. This is a significant benefit for RVs and trailers, as well as for general camping needs.
• Horse Stalls: A key feature for equestrian campers, each site includes 10x10 panel horse stalls. Visitors praise the cleanliness and quality of these stalls, often noting that they are well-maintained with fresh stone. Extra stalls can be rented for an additional fee per night.
• Dump Station: For RV and trailer campers, a convenient dump station is available on-site, simplifying waste disposal and making longer stays more practical.
• Hoosier National Forest Trail Access: The camp's most significant service is its direct access to the extensive trail system of the Hoosier National Forest. Campers can ride directly from the property onto hundreds of miles of scenic trails.
• Trail Pass Sales: To make your trail riding experience seamless, Harden's Horse Camp sells Hoosier National Forest trail passes directly at the camp. Both day passes ($5) and annual passes ($35) are available for purchase.
• Camp Office Hours: The camp office operates from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM for general inquiries and check-ins, with 24/7 availability for already registered campers.
• Reservation System: Campers must have a reservation to secure a spot, and a down payment (which is now full payment for all nights reserved) is required to hold the site. Reservations can be made by calling or texting the provided phone number.

• Ideal for Equestrians: Harden's Horse Camp is specifically designed for horse owners, providing amenities and direct trail access that cater to the unique needs of equestrian campers. This specialized focus ensures a top-tier experience for riders.
• Small, Quiet, and Peaceful: With only 10 total spots, the camp offers a more intimate and serene atmosphere than larger, more crowded campgrounds. This limited capacity ensures plenty of space between campers and a peaceful environment, perfect for relaxation after a day of riding.
• Direct Trailhead Access: One of the biggest advantages is the immediate access to Hoosier National Forest trails. There's no need to trailer your horses to a trailhead; you can ride directly out from your camp, maximizing your riding time.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness of the campsites, horse stalls, and even the portable toilets (often described as "the cleanest ever"). This dedication to maintenance enhances the overall camping experience.
• Exceptional Owners/Hosts: Harrison and Bobbie Harden receive high praise for their welcoming, friendly, and helpful nature. Their presence ensures a personal touch and that assistance is readily available if needed, making campers feel valued and at home.
• Dark Skies for Stargazing: Being in a rural area, the camp benefits from minimal light pollution, offering incredible opportunities for stargazing at night. This quiet, dark environment contributes significantly to the peaceful ambiance.
• Reliable Utilities: The provision of electric and water hookups at every site, along with a dump station, offers modern conveniences while still allowing for a rustic outdoor experience.
• Beautiful Scenery: Located along the Hoosier National Forest trails, campers can enjoy breathtaking sights and diverse landscapes, including woodlands, wildflowers in spring, and vibrant fall colors.

Harden's Horse Camp operates with a clear and consistent pricing structure, and while they may not offer traditional "promotions" in the sense of discounted rates, their focus is on providing value through their specialized amenities and direct trail access. As of the latest information, campsites are available for a flat fee per night, which includes the campsite itself, electricity, water, and two horse stalls. Additional stalls can be rented for an extra fee.

It is important to note their strict "No Refund" and "No Reschedule" policy for reservations. Full payment is required for all nights reserved at the time of booking. This policy ensures the availability of their limited 10 spots for committed campers. Visitors are encouraged to confirm all pricing and policies directly with Harden's Horse Camp when making their reservation. Any updates or specific seasonal offerings would be communicated directly by the owners. It is always recommended to contact them via phone or text to inquire about specific availability and the most current rates and policies for your desired dates.

To make a reservation or inquire further about Harden's Horse Camp, you can reach out using the following contact details:

Address: 5551 Hickory Grove Rd, Norman, IN 47264, USA

Phone: (812) 236-9695

Mobile Phone: +1 812-236-9695

Email: HardensHorseCamp@gmail.com

You can also visit their official website for more information and to view their reservation policies and gallery. Given the limited number of spots (only 2 open sites for 2025 as the rest are seasonal bookings), it is highly recommended to call or text well in advance to secure your reservation, especially during peak seasons.

For Indiana locals, especially those who cherish equestrian activities and the tranquility of nature, Harden's Horse Camp in Norman is an exceptional choice. Its primary appeal lies in its unique specialization: it's a campground truly built for horse owners. This means you’ll find dedicated amenities like clean, well-maintained stalls and direct access to the expansive and beautiful Hoosier National Forest trail system, all without the hassle of daily trailering. This immediate access to hundreds of miles of riding trails is a dream come true for any Hoosier trail rider.

Beyond the equestrian focus, the camp's small size, with only 10 total spots, ensures a peaceful and uncrowded experience, a stark contrast to larger, busier parks. This allows for a deeper connection with nature, quiet evenings under starlit skies free from light pollution, and a genuine sense of escape. The consistent praise for the owners, Harrison and Bobbie Harden, highlights the personalized and friendly service you can expect, making your stay feel like a visit to friends rather than just a campground. Their commitment to cleanliness and a welcoming environment means you and your horses can relax and enjoy the Hoosier outdoors without unnecessary worries. While the strict no-refund policy is important to note, the value provided by the well-kept facilities and the prime location for horse trail riding makes Harden's Horse Camp a highly sought-after destination. It's a true local treasure, offering a specialized and serene retreat for Indiana's vibrant equestrian community.