Pachaug State Forest in Voluntown, Connecticut offers dedicated equestrian camping facilities at Frog Hollow Horse Camp. The campground consists of a loop layout with first-come, first-served sites that can accommodate horses, trailers, and camping equipment. Sites include space for horse lines, with water sources available for both horses and humans. Composting toilets are provided near the entrance. The campground connects directly to three horseback riding trail systems of varying difficulty within the larger forest trail network, allowing riders to access routes without relocating their horses once camped.
What to do
Trail riding at Arcadia Management Area: The LeGrand Reynolds Horsemen's Camping Area connects to extensive riding trails throughout Rhode Island's largest recreational area. Riders appreciate the varied terrain and well-maintained paths.
Fishing opportunities: At Sears Bellows County Park, visitors can fish in Bellows Pond. "The people who stayed in the campsite next to us were cooking up some type of fish for their dinner that they caught that day," notes Nadia V.
Hiking excursions: Wolf Den Campground offers multiple hiking options. "Close to a small walking path and a larger intermediate hiking trail," reports 175 P., making it suitable for various experience levels.
Horseback riding loops: Multiple equestrian trails of different difficulty ratings branch from camping areas, allowing riders to select routes appropriate to their skill level. Trails typically range from 3-10 miles and traverse varied woodland terrain.
What campers like
Peaceful environment: The wooded settings provide a quiet retreat. At Sears Bellows County Park, Lexis N. found it "perfect for a peaceful and quiet weekend/week stay," noting it's "tucked away in the woods" yet close to amenities when needed.
Spacious sites: Mashamoquet Brook State Park offers "very nice sized lots" with "large open areas for kids and adults to play during day and star gaze at night," according to 175 P.
Water recreation: Several campgrounds feature water access. Sears Bellows offers affordable rowboat rentals, as one camper notes: "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."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained grounds. "The campground is very well kept and clean which I really liked," reports Nadia V. about Sears Bellows, while another notes that Mashamoquet Brook was "completely cleaned up" even right after a hurricane.
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most equestrian campgrounds near Cromwell offer basic facilities. Sears Bellows County Park has "no electrical hook-ups," as Vivian T. notes, making it ideal for those wanting to camp "off the grid."
Reservation requirements: While Frog Hollow operates on a first-come, first-served basis, other area campgrounds require advance booking. During peak season (Memorial Day through Labor Day), sites fill quickly, especially on weekends.
Seasonal availability: Many Connecticut state forest campgrounds operate seasonally. At Mashamoquet Brook State Park, camping is available "Memorial Day to Columbus Day," according to Jean C.
Water availability: Some campgrounds provide water hookups while others offer communal spigots. Check specific campground rules before arrival as water access varies significantly between locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Sears Bellows features "a really nice and big" playground that "has a lot of slides," according to Gino D., providing entertainment for younger campers.
Multi-generational appeal: Equestrian camping areas accommodate various age groups. "My grandkids love camping here, it is so peaceful and great biking and hiking," shares Vivian T. about Sears Bellows.
Educational opportunities: Some parks feature historical structures. Mashamoquet Brook has "an old mill and blacksmith shop that is sometimes open on weekends for tours," notes Jean C., providing learning opportunities beyond outdoor recreation.
Wildlife viewing: Children can observe native Connecticut wildlife in protected forest habitats. Morning and evening hours typically offer the best viewing opportunities for deer, birds, and small mammals.
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: At Mashamoquet Brook State Park, "most sites are relatively short level pads," according to Gary G., who selected "site 33 for the best shade and longer pad" for his RV.
Electric hookup availability: Limited electrical connections exist at equestrian campgrounds. Jean C. points out that at Mashamoquet Brook, "Site 20 is the only one with electric," making advance planning essential for RVers requiring power.
Trailer parking: Horse campsites typically provide space for both camping equipment and horse trailers, though size restrictions may apply. Check specific site dimensions when planning trips with multiple or larger trailers.
