Campers visiting Hadlyme, Connecticut access equestrian-friendly camping areas within driving distance of this rural community in East Haddam. The region features a mix of state forests, county parks, and specialized facilities catering to horseback riders. Seasonal considerations impact site availability, with many campgrounds operating from May through October when trail conditions are optimal for riding.
What to do
Trail riding access: Mashamoquet Brook State Park offers riders access to several hiking trails that can accommodate horses. As visitor Mike C. notes, "One of my all time favorite hikes," referring to the trail system that extends throughout the park area.
Kayaking opportunities: Sears Bellows County Park provides water recreation beyond horseback activities. "The first night I stayed here my friends and I rented some rowboats and went on the water. It was a lot of fun, and the price of the rowboat was pretty cheap," writes reviewer Nadia V. about the Sears Bellows County Park.
Fishing excursions: Multiple water bodies near horse campgrounds provide fishing opportunities. At Shinnecock East County Park, Anthony M. reports, "The ocean is beautiful and we catch stripe bass. The bay is peaceful and we go crabbing."
Geocaching adventures: Several parks in the region maintain geocaching sites. Mashamoquet Brook has "a number of hiking trails throughout the park along with a few geocaches (download details for offline use as phone connection is spotty)," according to Jean C.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Campers appreciate the natural separation between sites at many area campgrounds. Sears Bellows County Park is described by Lexis N. as "Tucked away in the woods is a beautiful well kept & maintained campground with spacious sites, a lake with kayaking access, and trails for bike riding and hiking."
Beach proximity: Some camping areas provide direct shore access. "Camping directly on the beach at one of the nicest beaches in the world. You cannot find another place like this!!" exclaims Kayla G. about Shinnecock East County Park.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained grounds receive consistent praise. Gary G. noted about Wolf Den Campground that "The park was completely cleaned up from any damage or debris, all in great shape... Most sites are relatively short level pads, with little or no shade, but very pleasant."
Trail connectivity: Direct access to riding trails from campsites ranks high with equestrians. Jean C. observed at Frog Hollow Horse Camp that "Three horseback riding loops leave from the campground. There's also fishing and hiking available in the forest."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Some facilities operate first-come, first-served while others require advance booking. "This small state park campground offers basic campsites with running water and showers, open Memorial Day to Columbus Day," explains Jean C. regarding Wolf Den Campground.
Seasonal closures: Most horse campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Wolf Den Campground runs from "May 26 to September 4" according to their listing information.
Specialized amenities: LeGrand Reynolds Horsemen's Camping Area provides both thirty-amp and fifty-amp electric hookups along with water connections specifically for equestrians, though it lacks shower facilities.
Varying regulations: Each facility maintains different rules regarding pets, fires, and vehicle types. For Wolf Den Campground, Jean C. notes, "They don't allow hammocks in the trees or pets. For some reason, silly string also makes the list of prohibitions."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds include recreational areas for children. Gino D. comments on Sears Bellows County Park: "The playground is really nice and big has a lot of slides. The bathrooms are in one area and the showers are in another area."
Open play spaces: Look for campsites with room for activities. At Wolf Den Campground, 175 P. found "Very nice sized lots. Large open areas for kids and adults to play during day and star gaze at night."
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer historical components. Wolf Den includes "a small brook with an old mill and blacksmith shop that is sometimes open on weekends for tours," according to Jean C.
Family-friendly trails: Select locations with varied difficulty levels. 175 P. noted Wolf Den provides areas "Close to a small walking path and a larger intermediate hiking trail."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle access considerations: Some sites restrict vehicle types or require special equipment. Lisa M. warns about Shinnecock East: "4x4 a must, air down a must. Beautiful on the bay or ocean side. They also have a hill top section."
Hookup availability: Utility connections vary widely between facilities. Lexis N. reports Sears Bellows County Park "does not have an electric hook up but generators are allowed!"
Site selection strategy: Research site layouts before arrival. For Wolf Den, Gary G. advises, "We picked site 33 for the best shade and longer pad."
