Equestrian campgrounds near Little Creek, Delaware offer trail riding options through a mix of forests, wetlands, and coastal terrain. Located on the Delmarva Peninsula, these horse-friendly areas feature flat trails and moderate temperatures suitable for year-round riding. Camping with horses requires preparation as facilities vary and some locations have specific requirements for containing your animals overnight.
What to do
Trail riding around Lums Pond: Explore the 5-mile trail circling the pond at Lums Pond State Park Campground. "There's an off leash dog park, equestrian center and boat ramp. Book early because it fills up fast!" notes Ellen B. The equestrian trails connect to a larger network for extended rides.
Kayaking with views: Rent watercraft to see the unique cypress trees at Trap Pond State Park Campground. "We walked around the pond and rented boats and kayaks for the day and rowed back to our site which the kids loved. They got to spend the day learning to paddle on the pond," says Lucia B. The pond offers a different perspective of the surrounding landscape.
Fishing opportunities: Bring fishing gear to try your luck at local waterways. "I took her older cousins to the fishing pier, and we didn't even get a nibble, but I think it was too cold for panfish that close to shore," shares one Lums Pond visitor. Water levels and seasonal conditions affect fishing success throughout the region.
What campers like
Site privacy levels: Campgrounds offer varying degrees of privacy between sites. At Tuckahoe State Park Campground, "The wooded area makes you feel a little more secluded from any neighbors," according to Kasey M. Sites suitable for horse trailers tend to be more spacious but may have less natural screening.
Clean facilities: The bathhouses receive positive mentions at multiple locations. "The bathhouse is absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease," reports a camper about Tuckahoe. These facilities are particularly important for extended stays with horses.
Seasonal atmosphere: Fall and spring are popular for equestrian camping. At Blackbird State Forest Campground, "Only 8 sites in the campground, very spaced apart. Each site has lots of room," says Sarah M. The cooler temperatures during these seasons are more comfortable for both riders and horses.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most horse-friendly campgrounds require advance booking. "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises an experienced Lums Pond camper. Holiday weekends and fall season book particularly quickly at all regional campgrounds.
Facility limitations: Not all campgrounds have dedicated horse facilities. At Martinak State Park Campground, campers note "Sites have fire rings and picnic tables. There is a dump station available. Sites are level, in a loop around the bath house." You may need to bring portable corrals or high-lines for overnight horse containment.
Trail conditions: Trail quality varies seasonally. "The trails were well marked, and the day we took a hike, we ended up on the equestrian trail that runs all the way around the pond. It was a long, but easy hike," notes a Lums Pond visitor. Spring can bring muddy conditions on many trails, requiring caution with horses.