Equestrian opportunities exist within a 30-45 minute radius of Clayton, Delaware, a flat coastal region situated approximately 30 feet above sea level in central Delaware. Several state parks and forests in the area provide trail riding access through mixed hardwood forests and wetland ecosystems, though dedicated horse facilities remain limited. Wet conditions during spring months can restrict trail access at some locations.
What to do
Kayaking on Lums Pond: Launch from Lums Pond State Park's boat ramp for electric-motor only boating on the 200-acre pond. "We spent a long weekend with family at Lums Pond State Park Campground... Great state park with lots to do (kayaking, biking, and more)," notes camper Matt S. from Lums Pond State Park Campground.
Disc golf course: Play the free course at Tuckahoe State Park, located 35 minutes southeast of Clayton. "Disc golf" is among the activities listed by Mary S., who appreciates the park's "20 miles of hiking trails [that] are also open for biking and horseback riding."
Trail riding network: Explore Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area's extensive bridle paths, the primary equestrian destination near Clayton. Located 25 minutes northwest in Elkton, Maryland, this 5,600-acre park functions mainly as a group camping area but offers day-use for trail riders.
Fishing access: Cast for freshwater species at Martinak State Park Campground, situated along the Choptank River. "This is a great place to catch some good action fish. I've always had some success whenever I've been here," reports Sam D.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: At Blackbird State Forest Campground (currently closed), campers appreciated the layout. "Only 8 sites in the campground, very spaced apart. Each site has lots of room, very much enjoyed our stay and will return!" writes Sarah M.
Clean facilities: Tuckahoe State Park Campground maintains well-kept shower buildings. "The bathroom/showers are the cleanest I've ever seen, especially since we stayed in the hottest time of the year," reports Bill G. who appreciates this benefit during summer visits.
Level camping pads: Most sites at Lums Pond provide stable surfaces for setting up. "The site was fairly level, side-to-side, so I really only needed to level front to back. That was a bonus," mentions Mark in his review.
Water access: Proximity to rivers and ponds ranks high among camper preferences. "Beautiful waterfront great for kayaking and water sports," Laura M. says about Martinak State Park, which provides direct access to the Choptank River.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons, securing sites in advance is essential. "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises Ellen B. about Lums Pond State Park Campground.
Limited horse infrastructure: While several parks permit equestrian use, dedicated corrals and stables are not available at campgrounds near Clayton. Horse owners need to arrange temporary containment solutions when staying overnight.
Seasonal closures: Most horse trails close during hunting seasons and extremely wet conditions. Check park websites or call ranger stations before planning equestrian camping trips, especially during October-January.
Bathroom locations: Facility placement may require longer walks from some sites. "Some engineering genius put the bath houses furthest from the people that need them most. Tent campers... keep your shoes handy, it's a hike," explains al K. about Lums Pond.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: Martinak State Park Campground offers several play areas for children. "They have quite a few playgrounds throughout the park, which was a major plus for us," mentions Bill F., making it suitable for families with young children.
Junior Ranger programs: Educational activities available at Tuckahoe State Park help engage children. "If you're looking to learn and explore with your kids, there is an extensive junior ranger program," Jean C. recommends.
Avoid site 21 at Tuckahoe: This particular campsite has space limitations. "We booked site 21, blind. The website does not say site 21 is extremely small. We have a 25' camper, and it barely fit, length and width were an issue," warns Buck P.
Boat rentals: Several parks offer canoe and kayak rentals that accommodate families. "You can rent kayaks, canoes and fishing gear," notes Jessica K. about recreational options that work well for groups with children.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Lums Pond provides complete utilities for RVs. "Sites are big and all were redone in the last few years with concrete pads, 30 amp service and full sewer," reports Ellen B., highlighting the relatively recent upgrades.
Dump station quality: Tuckahoe State Park Campground maintains clean waste facilities. "The pump out station was very nice," notes Sean R., an important consideration for extended stays.
Size restrictions: Carefully check site dimensions when booking. "I watched people with 25+ footers struggle to back into the sites," observes Buck P. at Tuckahoe, where some sites cannot accommodate larger rigs despite the campground being technically RV-friendly.
Proximity to shopping: Lums Pond's location provides convenient access to supplies. "Nearby grocery stores and restaurants," Adam and Suzanne B. mention, allowing RVers to restock without lengthy drives.
