Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area in Elkton, Maryland sits on 5,600 acres of rolling countryside with elevation changes throughout the property. The area serves as the primary equestrian camping destination near Yorklyn, Delaware, located just 12 miles east across the state line. Winter camping is available with portable toilets maintained year-round, though water access may be restricted during freezing temperatures.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: At Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area, riders access designated equestrian trails directly from the campground area. "The trail system at Fair Hill connects riders to multiple bridle paths throughout the 5,600-acre natural resource area," with terrain suitable for all experience levels.
Water recreation: Lums Pond State Park Campground offers boating and fishing on the largest freshwater pond in Delaware. "There are plenty of boating (electric motors only) and kayaking on the pond and a decent amount of hiking," notes Ellen B. The park has boat rentals available seasonally from April through October.
Hiking networks: Explore extensive trail systems connecting multiple parks. At Hibernia County Park, "Walking/hiking trails and the lake were super peaceful," according to Chelsea. The park features trails ranging from 0.5 to 2 miles with moderate terrain.
What campers like
Spacious sites: French Creek State Park Campground receives praise for its well-designed camping areas. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," writes Jen R. The campground maintains 200 individual sites across four loops with varying levels of privacy.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of facilities at horse campgrounds near Yorklyn, Delaware. At Starlite Camping Resort, "The facilities are spotless and the campground is maintained to the highest standards I have seen," reports Elizabeth L. The resort features private shower stalls and regular bathroom cleaning.
Privacy between sites: Natural buffers between camping spots create separation at many area campgrounds. At Blackbird State Forest Campground, "The camp sites are spaced out a good amount so each site has good privacy," notes one reviewer. Each site includes "a fire pit, a grill, and two tables with a decent amount of space for tents."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian camping options near Yorklyn require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. At Lums Pond State Park, "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises Ellen B. Weekends from May through September often fill 2-3 months in advance.
Limited hookups: Many campgrounds offer only basic amenities for equestrians. As one camper at Hibernia County Park notes, "Inexpensive $15 a night, but you only get picnic table and fire ring. No hook ups." Primitive camping is common at equestrian sites.
Terrain considerations: The topography around Yorklyn presents challenges for large rigs and horse trailers. At Starlite Camping Resort, "If you're hauling a big camper you'll need power for the hills," advises Chris G. Narrow access roads may restrict larger equestrian rigs at some locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lums Pond State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities beyond equestrian facilities. "Our daughter really enjoyed the playground (which was excellent, by my standards)," shares Mark. The campground maintains multiple play areas for different age groups.
Youth programs: Several parks offer structured activities for children. At French Creek, "There is a huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake," and organized recreation programs run throughout summer months, particularly on weekends.
Fishing opportunities: Hibernia County Park provides dedicated fishing areas for younger visitors. "Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too," notes John Z., making it ideal for families combining equestrian activities with other outdoor pursuits.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RVers camping with horses should note varying site conditions. At French Creek, "Sites are big and all were redone in the last few years with concrete pads, 30 amp service and full sewer," reports Ellen B., though equestrian-specific sites may offer fewer amenities.
Water access planning: Limited hookups at equestrian sites require preparation. Craig F. notes at Starlite Camping Resort, "Water pressure and electric were both great throughout the stay," but warns about site positioning: "Too often private campgrounds attempt to squeeze as many sites as possible and end up with campers on top of their neighbors."
Bathroom access: Consider proximity to facilities when selecting sites with horses. At Lums Pond, one camper notes, "Some engineering genius put the bath houses furthest from the people that need them most." Equestrian sites typically position rigs farther from central facilities to accommodate horses.
Ranger
