Pachaug State Forest provides equestrian camping options within a 30-mile drive of Middletown, Connecticut. Frog Hollow Horse Camp offers primitive campsites designed specifically for horseback riders with trailer accommodations. The forest encompasses over 24,000 acres with multiple trail systems accessible directly from camping areas. Water access points are available throughout the property for both campers and horses.
What to do
Trail riding: Three distinct horseback riding loops depart directly from Frog Hollow Horse Camp. These trails connect to a broader network within Pachaug State Forest, offering routes suitable for various experience levels. According to one visitor, "There's fishing and hiking available in the forest" in addition to equestrian activities.
Beach camping: For those willing to drive approximately 60 miles from Middletown, Shinnecock East County Park offers oceanfront camping with fishing opportunities. "The ocean is beautiful and we catch stripe bass. The bay is peaceful and we go crabbing," notes Anthony M., highlighting the dual water access available.
Hiking trails: Multiple marked paths exist throughout state forests near Middletown. Wolf Den Campground at Mashamoquet Brook State Park features "a small walking path and a larger intermediate hiking trail" according to visitor reviews. These trails remain accessible throughout the main camping season from late May through early September.
What campers like
Direct trail access: Equestrian campers appreciate not having to transport horses after setting up camp. Jean C. notes that at Frog Hollow, "Three horseback riding loops leave from the campground," making it convenient for riders to access trails immediately.
Peaceful environment: Despite proximity to urban areas, these camping destinations maintain a natural atmosphere. At Wolf Den Campground, one visitor experienced "totally silent. No road noise" even after a recent hurricane, with sites described as having "little or no shade, but very pleasant."
Water features: Many campgrounds in the region offer water recreation options. Sears Bellows County Park provides access to Bellows Pond, where "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," reports Nadia V.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most equestrian camping facilities near Middletown operate seasonally. Wolf Den Campground runs "May 26 to September 4" according to park information, with most other facilities following similar schedules.
Limited amenities: Equestrian campgrounds typically offer basic facilities. Jean C. describes Frog Hollow as having "campsites located around a loop with a couple of composting toilets near the entrance. Water is available." Campers should prepare for primitive conditions rather than full-service accommodations.
First-come, first-served: Unlike many Connecticut campgrounds, Sears Bellows County Park does not accept reservations for certain sites. Visitors should arrive early, especially during peak summer weekends, to secure desired camping spots.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. Gino D. shares that at Sears Bellows, "The playground is really nice and big has a lot of slides," providing recreation options for younger campers.
Open areas for activities: Wolf Den Campground offers "Large open areas for kids and adults to play during day and star gaze at night," according to one visitor labeled "175 P." These communal spaces allow for group games and activities without disturbing neighboring campsites.
Multiple camping styles: Wolf Den Campground accommodates various camping preferences. Jean C. notes that "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." This flexibility works well for families with different equipment needs.
Tips from RVers
Beach access requirements: When considering oceanfront camping, specific vehicle capabilities may be necessary. At Shinnecock East County Park, Lisa M. advises "4x4 a must, air down a must" for accessing beachside sites, adding that it offers "beautiful on the bay or ocean side. They also have a hill top section."
Limited hookups: Most equestrian camping areas near Middletown provide minimal RV services. Gary G. chose "site 33 for the best shade and longer pad" at Wolf Den, noting the limited options for larger rigs. Most sites are designed primarily for horse trailers with modest camping setups rather than large recreational vehicles.
