Equestrian camping near Andover, Connecticut offers access to extensive trail systems traversing the woodlands of northeastern Connecticut and western Rhode Island. The region features elevations ranging from 300 to 600 feet with mixed hardwood forests and numerous streams. Camping facilities within a 20-mile radius of Andover provide varying levels of equestrian accommodations, from primitive sites to those with limited electrical and water hookups.
What to do
Trail riding through Pachaug State Forest: The forest contains over 24,000 acres with multiple trail loops specifically designated for horseback riding. "Three horseback riding loops leave from the campground. There's also fishing and hiking available in the forest," notes Jean C. about Frog Hollow Horse Camp at Pachaug State Forest.
Swimming in local ponds: Several campgrounds near Andover offer swimming options during summer months. Mashamoquet Brook State Park features "a swimming pond, and a small brook with an old mill and blacksmith shop that is sometimes open on weekends for tours. It's a nice place to explore and have a picnic," according to Jean C. who visited Wolf Den Campground.
Hiking interconnected trail systems: Numerous trails connect camping areas to larger trail networks. Gary G. reports, "Wished we had time to check out the hiking trails accessible from the campground," during his stay at Wolf Den Campground, while another visitor mentions "Close to a small walking path and a larger intermediate hiking trail."
What campers like
Clean facilities with privacy: Campers consistently mention the upkeep of facilities as a highlight. "Bathrooms were clean and staff were friendly. Would definitely stay again," shares a reviewer identified as 175 P. about their experience at Wolf Den Campground.
Spacious campsites: The generous size of camping areas receives frequent praise. One camper notes, "Very nice sized lots. Large open areas for kids and adults to play during day and star gaze at night," describing their experience at Wolf Den Campground.
Exclusive amenities at private facilities: For those seeking premium experiences beyond state parks, private clubs offer enhanced options. Chris M. describes The Preserve Club and Residences as "New England's most amenity rich properties, in fact it may be the only place in the world that has such a diverse amount of outdoor offerings."
What you should know
Seasonal availability limitations: Most equestrian camping facilities in the region operate on limited seasonal schedules. Wolf Den Campground at Mashamoquet Brook State Park runs "open Memorial Day to Columbus Day," according to reviewers.
Varying site features: Campsite amenities differ significantly between locations. Jean C. explains that at Wolf Den, "The parking pads are paved and a few have overhanging branches, but the trees provide separation and some shade on largely open sites that tend to open up toward the back with open areas for pitching tents."
Reservation requirements vary: While some campgrounds require advance booking, others operate on first-come systems. Gary G. noted his midweek experience: "Stayed here on a Tuesday night right after hurricane Henri. The park was completely cleaned up from any damage or debris, all in great shape. No other campers here when we arrived, so totally silent."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. Jean C. mentions that Wolf Den Campground has "a small playground in the middle of the loop, a number of hiking trails throughout the park along with a few geocaches."
Recreation options: Family-friendly activities are available at several locations. "Son and I stayed from Friday to Sunday. Easy to find the camp and the plot, well marked. Very nice sized lots. Large open areas for kids and adults to play during day and star gaze at night," shares reviewer 175 P. about their experience at Mashamoquet Brook State Park.
Geocaching opportunities: Tech-savvy families can enjoy GPS-based treasure hunting. One reviewer advises to "download details for offline use a phone connection is spotty" when seeking geocaches at Wolf Den Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: RV campers should research site dimensions before arrival. Gary G. notes about Wolf Den Campground, "Most sites are relatively short level pads, with little or no shade, but very pleasant. We picked site 33 for the best shade and longer pad."
Hookup availability: Electrical connections are limited at many public campgrounds. Jean C. mentions that at Wolf Den, "Site 20 is the only one with electric. The ones toward the back of the loop back up toward the woods and give you some more privacy."
Weather preparedness: RV campers should be ready for post-storm conditions. One camper reported camping right after a hurricane and found "the park was completely cleaned up from any damage or debris, all in great shape."
Legend
