Cedarville State Forest offers equestrian camping near Charlotte Hall, Maryland within an accessible 15-mile radius. The forested terrain provides multiple trail options ranging from 2 to 5 miles in length. Temperatures average 75-85°F during summer camping months with higher humidity levels, particularly in July and August when tick activity increases.
What to do
Disc golf course access: Bull Run Regional Park features an 18-hole disc golf course that provides recreation beyond trail riding. One visitor noted, "Park has golf frisbe course, decent water park for kids, hiking trails, small creek/river you can explore, playgrounds" making it ideal for mixed-activity groups.
Military history exploration: Prince William Forest Park offers historic structures from Civil War periods. As one camper mentioned, "Lots of history near by so check out the old battle fields and buildings that housed troops during civil war. Very cool stuff."
Water activities: Multiple water activities complement horseback riding outings. A camper at Pohick Bay Campground noted, "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats" making it suitable for cooling off after trail rides.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate room for both horses and camping equipment. A Bull Run visitor reported, "The sites are all pull-through off the roads through the campground. So your camper faces the woods and you feel like you're all alone."
Clean facilities: Cedarville State Forest maintains quality bathhouses for post-ride comfort. One visitor stated, "Bathrooms don't look like much from the outside, but the inside is very nice. Clean, hot water, and good water pressure."
Natural wildlife viewing: Equestrian trails offer wildlife sighting opportunities. A camper mentioned, "Saw a snake, alligator snapping turtle, and rabbits, before we even reached the gates" indicating the natural biodiversity in the area.
What you should know
Tick preparation: Ticks pose a significant concern for both horses and riders. A recent camper warned, "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers."
Site leveling challenges: Some sites require preparation for horse trailers. At Bull Run Regional Park, a visitor noted, "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level."
Water access points: Multiple water sources exist for horse hydration. A Cedarville camper mentioned, "We had site 18. Which is next to one of the water spigots. The idea is to use it to fill up tanks."
Tips for camping with families
Scavenger hunts: Organized activities keep children entertained after riding. At Bull Run, a visitor shared, "There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish."
Playground proximity: Select sites near play areas for convenience. A camper at Camp Meade RV Park noted, "Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post" providing safety for family activities.
Seasonal programming: Summer offers structured family activities at several parks. One Bull Run visitor explained, "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon... They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for trailers: Horse trailer accommodation requires specific sites. A Cedarville Forest camper advised, "Site 6 was good but not for larger rigs. We have a pop up and had to navigate around a tree that would have been very difficult for larger rigs. Site 5 or 7 wouldn't have that problem."
Utility hookups: For extended stays with horses, full hookups provide comfort. At Andrews AFB Military FamCamp, sites include 30-amp service ideal for horse trailer power needs.
Dump station access: After weekend trail riding, proper waste management matters. A Pohick Bay visitor mentioned, "Staff are always nice and go out of their way to help" when navigating the sanitary facilities with larger equestrian rigs.
