Pachaug State Forest contains designated equestrian camping facilities located approximately 52 miles from Old Saybrook Center, Connecticut. The forest spans over 26,000 acres across several towns in eastern Connecticut, with multiple access points and trail systems. Trail difficulty varies from beginner-friendly flat terrain to more technical sections with moderate elevation changes and stream crossings. Connecticut maintains specific regulations for equestrian use in state forests.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Equestrian camping near Old Saybrook Center, Connecticut provides access to extensive riding networks. At Frog Hollow Horse Camp, "Three horseback riding loops leave from the campground. There's also fishing and hiking available in the forest," according to Jean C., who visited in late October.
Hiking excursions: Several state parks and management areas offer trail systems for non-equestrian recreation. At Mashamoquet Brook State Park, visitors can access "a small walking path and a larger intermediate hiking trail" as noted by reviewer 175 P., who found the park "Close to a small walking path and a larger intermediate hiking trail."
Fishing access: Multiple water bodies throughout the region 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."
Water recreation: Several campgrounds offer proximity to water features. Sears Bellows County Park includes boat rentals and water access, with Nadia V. noting, "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."
What campers like
Direct trail access: Horse camp facilities typically provide immediate trail connections without requiring trailer transport. Jean C. notes that at Frog Hollow Horse Camp, "Three horseback riding loops leave from the campground," allowing riders to start their journeys directly from their campsites.
Campsite spacing: Campers appreciate adequate separation between sites at state forest campgrounds. At Mashamoquet Brook State Park, Gary G. observed sites with "trees provide separation and some shade on largely open sites that tend to open up toward the back with open areas for pitching tents."
Nature immersion: The forested settings create a secluded camping experience. Lexis N. describes Sears Bellows County Park as "Tucked away in the woods is a beatiful well kept & maintained campground with spacious sites, a lake with kayaking access, and trails for bike riding and hiking."
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds include recreational amenities for younger visitors. Gino D. reports that at Sears Bellows County Park, "The playground is really nice and big has a lot of slides," making it suitable for families.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Many equestrian campgrounds offer basic amenities. Jean C. reports that at Frog Hollow Horse Camp, "Campsites are located around a loop with a couple of composting toilets near the entrance. Water is available."
Seasonal considerations: Most Connecticut state park campgrounds operate on seasonal schedules, typically closing after Columbus Day. At Mashamoquet Brook State Park, facilities are "open Memorial Day to Columbus Day" according to Jean C.
Reservation systems: State facilities have varying booking policies. While some require reservations, others operate on first-come, first-served basis, with Jean C. noting Frog Hollow is a "first come, first serve campground."
Site specifications: Campsite dimensions vary between facilities. Gary G. found at Mashamoquet Brook that "Most sites are relatively short level pads, with little or no shade, but very pleasant."
Tips for camping with families
Recreational options: Select campgrounds with diverse activities for various age groups. The Mashamoquet Brook area includes "a small playground in the middle of the loop, a number of hiking trails throughout the park along with a few geocaches, a swimming pond, and a small brook with an old mill and blacksmith shop," according to Jean C.
Open play areas: Look for campgrounds with space for unstructured play. 175 P. appreciated Mashamoquet Brook State Park's "Large open areas for kids and adults to play during day and star gaze at night."
Site selection: Choose campsites based on your family's specific needs. Jean C. advises at Mashamoquet Brook that "The ones toward the back of the loop back up toward the woods and give you some more privacy."
Pet policies: Check animal regulations before arrival. Some state facilities restrict pets, with Jean C. noting that at Mashamoquet Brook, "They don't allow hammocks in the trees or pets."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV campers should verify pad lengths before booking. Gary G. notes at Mashamoquet Brook, "We picked site 33 for the best shade and longer pad," indicating variability in site sizes.
Utility connections: Available hookups differ between facilities. Lexis N. points out that Sears Bellows County Park "does not have an electric hook up but generators are allowed!"
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have limitations on vehicle size or access routes. Lisa M. cautions that at Shinnecock East County Park, "4x4 a must, air down a must," indicating challenging terrain for larger vehicles.
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