Horseback Riding in Brown County: Guided Rides, Trails & Tips

Whether you’re bringing your own horse or just looking to spend a relaxing hour on a guided trail ride, horseback riding in Brown County, Indiana offers one of the best ways to explore this corner of southern Indiana.

With a mix of scenic state forest trails, quiet family-run stables, and nearly 70 miles of horse trails in the Brown County State Park alone, there’s more than one way to get in the saddle here.

I grew up riding horses and spent many weekends camping and trail riding in Brown County. Now that I live here full-time, I’ve pulled together all the details to help you figure out where to ride, what to expect, and how to make the most of your trip—whether you’re a beginner, bringing kids, or hauling in your own horses for a longer stay.

Options for Guided Trail Rides

If you’re not traveling with your own horse, there are two main spots in Brown County where you can book a guided trail ride: the Saddle Barn at Brown County State Park and Grandpa Jeff’s Trail Rides in the northern part of the county, near Morgantown.

Both offer scenic rides through wooded terrain, but they operate a bit differently in terms of location, group size, and accessibility.

Brown County State Park Saddle Barn

Located inside Brown County State Park near the Lower Shelterhouse, the Saddle Barn is the most well-known guided ride option in the area. It’s a seasonal operation offering short, scenic trail rides for beginners and families

Rides are available on a walk-up basis only—no reservations—and their season generally runs from the third week of March to the second week of November. Weather permitting (they do not ride if it’s raining), they’re open 10a to 6p, with the last ride leaving at 5p, and closed on Tuesdays.

This is a great fit if you’re looking for a quick, structured ride within the park and are okay with sticking to a fixed route and timeline. Riders must meet minimum age and physical requirements, and there is a strict 240 lb weight limit in place.

They also offer pony rides for kids and weekend hayrides during the warmer months. Because this is operated inside the State Park, a separate park entrance fee applies in addition to ride costs.

**For full details on ride times, restrictions, and what to expect, check out my full Brown County State Park Horseback Riding Guide.**

Grandpa Jeff’s Trail Rides

Located in the northern part of the county near Morgantown, Grandpa Jeff’s Trail Rides is a locally owned operation that offers a laid-back, more personal alternative to the Saddle Barn. Rides here take you through wooded trails, across creeks, and up gentle hills — with a relaxed pace and longer ride options.

Ride options include:

• 45-minute ride – $30
• 1 hour and 45-minute ride – $60
• Half-day and full-day rides – Call for pricing and availability

Rides here are scheduled in advance, rather than walk-up, so you’ll need to call ahead to reserve. If you’re hoping to ride on a weekend or during the fall, be sure to book early.

One potential advantage of Grandpa Jeff’s is their 300 lb weight limit, which makes this a more inclusive option for some riders than the Saddle Barn (which has a 240 lb limit). If you or someone in your group has found weight limits to be a barrier elsewhere, this could be a welcome and accessible choice.

Grandpa Jeff’s is a great option if you want a quieter setting, longer rides, or just something a little more off the beaten path.

Horseback Riding with Your Own Horse in Brown County

If you’re traveling with your own horse, Brown County has some of the most extensive and scenic bridle trail systems in the state. Between the State Park, Yellowwood State Forest, and the Hoosier National Forest, you’ll find everything from short day loops to long backcountry routes. Most areas are connected or close enough to trailer between, and each offers its own kind of experience.

Whether you’re in for a weekend ride or planning a longer backcountry trip, there’s a lot to explore, but a few important things to know first.

Brown County State Park Horse Trails

With over 70 miles of designated bridle trails, the Brown County State Park is one of the most popular horseback riding destinations in the Midwest.

Trails range from wide, two-abreast loops to narrow ridgelines that require single-file riding, and most routes start at or loop through the Horsemen’s Campground on the south end of the park.

In addition to the required Indiana horse tag, there is also a separate entrance fee to access the State Park.

This is a solid option if you want to ride a variety of trails in one area, camp with your horses, or explore longer trails that connect into Yellowwood and Hoosier National Forest.

**For a detailed breakdown of trail maps, recent tornado damage updates, and campground status, see my full Brown County State Park Horseback Riding Guide.**

Yellowwood State Forest Horse Trails

Located approximately 20 minutes west of Brown County State Park, Yellowwood State Forest offers a quieter and less-developed riding experience than the State Park.

There is no entrance fee for Yellowwood, but a valid Indiana horse tag is still required.

The terrain here is a bit more rugged in places, and the trails see less traffic than the ones inside the park, making it a good option if you prefer solitude or already know your way around backcountry trails.

Trail options include:

• Y Trail – 8.6 miles
• SY Loop – 4 miles (shortcut off the Y Trail)
• Z (Bill Jack Trail) – 4 miles (along the west side of the lake)
• W Trail – 2.4 miles (Accessible off Crooked Creek Rd and connects to Brown County SP)
• X (Brock Road Trail) – 2 miles (connects to Z Trail)

Because Yellowwood is more remote and signage can be minimal in spots, it’s smart to download a trail map ahead of time and plan your ride in advance. Cell service can be limited in this area of the county.

NOTE: As of August 2025, some of the trails in Yellowwood (especially in the southern area, near Crooked Creek) are closed for tornado-related salvage work, with no date announced for reopening. Always check the Yellowwood State Forest page for any advisories or closure announcements before heading out.

Hoosier National Forest Horse Trails

For riders looking for a true backcountry experience, Hoosier National Forest and the Charles C. Deam Wilderness area offer more than 200 miles of multi-use trails, many of which are open to horses. This federally managed land stretches across southern Indiana and includes looped trails, ridge routes, creek crossings, and dispersed horse camps.

These federal lands don’t offer horse rentals, so you’ll need to bring your own horses and carry a valid Hoosier National Forest trail permit.

Popular trail options in Brown County include:

• Brown County “D” Trail – Connects the park to Yellowwood and into the Hoosier
• Nebo Ridge Trail – 8.6 miles of ups and downs with forest views
• Charles C. Deam Wilderness – 36 miles of trails with dispersed camping
• Plus many more horse trails and horse camping options throughout the rest of the Hoosier National Forest

Camping is allowed in designated horse camps like Blackwell Campground, or in wilderness campsites for longer pack trips. Trails here are shared with hikers and mountain bikers, so expect to encounter other users. Always stay on designated horse routes.

NOTE: As of August 2025, portions of Horse Trail Trail D, and other trails in southern Brown County, are closed for tornado-related lumber salvage work, so check for updates here before heading out.

Horse Tag Requirements & Entrance Fees

If you’re bringing horses to ride on public trails in Brown County, you’ll need the proper permits. Each land management agency has its own pass system, and enforcement is active—so you’ll need to get this sorted before you hit the trail.

Indiana DNR Properties (Brown County State Park & Yellowwood)

If you’re riding at either Brown County State Park or Yellowwood State Forest, each horse is required to have a valid Indiana Horse Tag:

• Daily Horse Tag: $5 per horse
• Annual Horse Tag: $20 per horse (valid statewide, Jan 1–Dec 31 of the year issued)

You can buy tags at the gate when you enter the State Park, online through the Indiana DNR website, or by phone at (317) 232-4200.

NOTE: These tags are in addition to the vehicle entrance fee at the State Park. There is no additional entrance fee for Yellowwood State Forest.

Hoosier National Forest

Riders aged 17 and older that are using trails in Hoosier National Forest, including the Charles C. Deam Wilderness and Nebo Ridge, are required to carry a Hoosier National Forest Trail Use Permit:

• Daily Permit: $5
• Annual Permit: $35

Permits can be purchased online via Recreation.gov, at designated local vendors (like Brown County Bikes), or in person or over the phone from Forest Service offices.

Tips for Horseback Riding in Brown County

Whether you’re booking a guided ride or exploring the trails with your own horse, a little preparation goes a long way toward making your ride safer and more enjoyable. Here are a few key tips based on local conditions:

Come Prepared

Once you get outside the main park areas, amenities are few and far between—especially in Yellowwood State Forest and the Hoosier National Forest. It’s easy to underestimate how remote some trailheads are, so it’s important to plan ahead and pack accordingly.

• Fuel up before you head out. There are no gas stations near Yellowwood or most Hoosier National Forest trailheads, and cell service can be spotty if you need to navigate elsewhere.
• Bring enough water—for you and your horse. Not all campsites or parking areas have working water spigots, and creeks can run low in late summer.
• Pack bug spray, sunscreen, and snacks. You’ll likely be out longer than you think, and there’s little to no access to food or additional supplies in many areas.

Even if you’re only riding for a few hours, treating it like a backcountry trip will set you up for a much more comfortable and safe experience.

Plan for limited cell service

Cell coverage can be spotty in Brown County, particularly in Yellowwood State Forest and Hoosier National Forest, as well as other backcountry areas.

Download trail maps ahead of time and let someone know your ride plan if you’re going out alone or into remote areas.

Wear the right gear

Long pants and closed-toe shoes are always a smart choice, no matter your experience level. Trails can get brushy or steep, and proper footwear helps with mounting and dismounting safely.

Helmets are required for anyone under 18 at the Saddle Barn, but they’re a good idea no matter where you’re riding, especially on unfamiliar horses or terrain.

Secure your gear

On guided rides, bags, cameras, or strapped-on gear aren’t allowed, since they can shift or spook a horse. If you’re bringing your own horse, follow the same principle. Keep valuables zipped up, use saddle bags if needed, and avoid anything that swings or bounces.

Keep an eye on the weather

Summer heat and humidity can be hard on both horses and riders. Guided rides may pause when heat indexes get too high, and muddy trails can become slick fast after rain—especially in shaded areas or on hills.

Also, Brown County’s hills can make weather patterns unpredictable. Storms may roll in quickly or shift unexpectedly, even when radar shows a clear window. Check the forecast before you ride, but stay alert while you’re out.

Share the Trails Safely

Brown County is one of Indiana’s most popular riding destinations, so even on quieter trails, you’ll likely pass other riders.

Many horse trails—especially in the State Park and Yellowwood—are also open to hikers, and in the Hoosier National Forest, multi-use trails are common. You may cross paths with hikers, dogs, or mountain bikers, depending on where you ride.

While others are supposed to yield to horses, it’s still your responsibility to stay in control and approach trail encounters calmly. Give space, communicate clearly, and ride responsibly so everyone can safely enjoy the trail.

Know your limits

If you’re new to riding or haven’t been on a horse in years, stick with shorter trails. Even a 30-minute ride can be physically tiring if you’re not used to it.

If you’re riding your own horse, consider elevation, distance, and trail conditions before heading out—some loops are more strenuous than they look on the map.

Book early during peak season

Fall weekends (especially in October) are extremely popular for both guided rides and campground stays. If you’re riding during peak leaf season, reserve early and allow extra time for traffic in and around Nashville.

Is Horseback Riding in Brown County Worth It?

If you love the outdoors and want to experience Brown County beyond the overlooks and roadside stops, horseback riding gives you a completely different view. The horse trails here take you deep into the forest, across ridgelines, and through creek beds you won’t reach on foot or by car. It’s quieter, more connected, and lets you see the landscape at the pace it was meant to be seen.

For beginners or families, the guided ride options are accessible, scenic, and low-pressure. For riders with their own horses, the variety of trail systems and backcountry loops make Brown County a standout destination in Indiana.

Whether you’re squeezing in a short ride or planning a full weekend in the saddle, horseback riding is a great way to slow down and take in the landscape. And when you’re done, nothing hits quite like a good meal and a place to relax. Need ideas for where to eat after your ride? Check out the best restaurants in Brown County for a post-ride meal.