Despite extensive searching, horse campgrounds near Arnold, Maryland remain unavailable. The closest state parks and forests within 30-45 minutes of Arnold don't offer designated equestrian facilities or horse-friendly campsites. Campers seeking outdoor recreation can explore several alternatives with diverse amenities within reasonable driving distance from Arnold's coastal location along the Chesapeake Bay, where summer humidity and temperatures often reach into the 80s.
What to do
Paddling and fishing: Tuckahoe State Park Campground offers excellent kayaking and river access. "We stayed on the tent side there is a kayak launch. The sites are laid out in a circle with the bathhouse in the center," notes Jessica K. The park provides water recreation options without equestrian facilities.
Disc golf: At Tuckahoe State Park Campground, visitors enjoy an established course. "There are a few trails here. Nearby is the Chesapeake bay with all its amenities, an Arbouretum that is a bit over priced. And access to the Tuckahoe River for fishing and kayaking," explains Bill G. The park provides outdoor activities beyond standard camping.
Wildlife viewing: Pohick Bay Campground offers birdwatching opportunities. "Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!" reports Kathie M. Though lacking equestrian facilities, the area provides nature observation opportunities.
What campers like
Clean bathrooms: Camp Meade RV Park maintains quality facilities. "Nice clean restrooms and showers. Friendly hostess and we had a nice shady spot, what was great with a heat of 94F," shares Rick V. The park focuses on comfort rather than horse accommodations.
Privacy between sites: Martinak State Park Campground provides adequate spacing. "Sites do not have sewer but does have dump. Great park that offers alot!" notes Chris O. While no horseback riding trails exist, campers enjoy relative seclusion.
Forest setting: Cedarville State Forest offers wooded camping without equestrian options. "Small loop here accommodates both tent and RVs, which is fine but some of these damn things are so huge, I have trouble believing they could wedge themselves here," observes Bill G. The forest environment provides shade but no horse facilities.
What you should know
Ticks are prevalent: Multiple parks report tick issues, especially Blackbird State Forest Campground. "My only beef is that it's a legitimate campground, which means, neighbors. But the neighbors aren't unreasonably close, so it's actually pretty good," explains D R. While searching for equestrian camping near Arnold, Maryland, be prepared for insects.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate March through November. "Though I live in Texas now, Maryland will always be home for me. Whenever I get the chance to head back, I almost make sure to check out some of the local fishing spots," says Sam D. about Martinak State Park.
Limited amenities: Some sites have minimal services. "Each campsite features a picnic table or two, and a fire pit, plus one bundle of firewood. The ground is dirt covered with woodchips and sometimes evergreen needles -- pretty easy to sleep in a tent," notes D R. about Blackbird State Forest, which like other area campgrounds, lacks horse facilities.
