9 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Horse-friendly camping near Clear Spring, Maryland centers around Michaux State Forest, which provides both motorized and primitive campsites. Designated motorized parking lot sites throughout the forest serve as equestrian campsites with some areas featuring hitching posts and mounting blocks. Teaberry Parking Area specifically includes these equestrian amenities, making it suitable for horse camping. The campground is arranged with five sites along one side of a large gravel lot, providing ample space for horses and trailers. Sites are well-spaced and situated along the edge of the parking area with views of surrounding trees. Fires are permitted at all designated sites, each equipped with some form of fire ring, either stones or metal.
The extensive trail network throughout Michaux State Forest connects to the Appalachian Trail, offering numerous riding opportunities. Parking lot campsites that serve as equestrian sites remain open year-round and require a free online permit. Regulations allow alcohol consumption except in picnic areas, and pets must remain under control at all times. Horse camping is specifically permitted at designated motorized parking lot sites. The forest sits at the northern terminus of the Blue Ridge Mountains, consisting primarily of young mixed deciduous and coniferous forest with some open meadow sections. Riders should note that fire restrictions apply from March 1 to May 25 and during periods of high fire danger. Water sources are limited to natural creeks and springs, which must be treated before use.
from $100 - $150 / night
Check Availability"I always appreciate the near solitude experience of this campground as 90% of the sites are RV sites, that are kept away from the tenting area."
"If you’re looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn’t it."
"This park is a perfect location if you want to explore Gettysburg National Historical Site as you can literally walk across the street and be in the park or venture½ mile up the road and you come to the"
"Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded."
"Several rustic campsites with a large lake for the kids, and miles of off road trails for atvs, jeeps, and dirtbikes."
"The road is gravel and could use some work, I’d recommend 4x4 drive. We really enjoyed it and will go back. The reason for 4 stars instead of 5, water situation and the roads could use some work."
"Campground reeks of horse manure 24/7. Was pleased by the quiet despite size of campground and proximity to highway. Sites not overly large or private."
"It's close to some really great hiking--just outside the park--and that's how I ended up there."
from $24 - $122 / night
Check Availability"Some reviewers have confused nearby State Parks with the actual State Forest, resulting in inaccurate information."
"Every January for the last few years some friends and I have gone and camped along the Appalachian Trail."
from $10 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $10 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $10 / night
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TravelerCampground reeks of horse manure 24/7. Was pleased by the quiet despite size of campground and proximity to highway. Sites not overly large or private. Has wood vending machine at entrance for firewood. Hiking loop around lake is beautiful. Jean bonnet tavern nearby recommended for a great meal in a historic setting.
LegendThis park is a perfect location if you want to explore Gettysburg National Historical Site as you can literally walk across the street and be in the park or venture½ mile up the road and you come to the park’s main visitor center. The campground has a bunch of different sites whether you want to spend more money for a premium full hook-up or save a few bucks and just get water and electric. There are lots of tent sites, cabins, and horse stalls with a corral for those traveling with horses. The park is also very close to the historic downtown so you don’t have to drive too far for the attractions.
We were able to do contactless check-in by making the reservation and paying over the phone. When we arrived, they had a packet out on a picnic table for us with directions to our site and information about the park and the surrounding area. But, the best part of the check-in was that we got a free bundle of wood and the cutest little s’mores packet which had just enough fixings for the two of us. Such a great touch that we really appreciated. We had a gravel pull thru site which was easy to navigate in and out of with our tow car attached and was plenty long enough. The roads are gravel but were not dusty. The site and patio were gravel and a mix of grass. The campground was very clean and well-cared for.
Some of the sites are in the open without much shade but some other areas have some nice shade. Most of the tent section is pretty open with a few trees scattered about. Some of the sites (i.e., 82) is very close to the playground and the fishing pond which get quite a bit of action so be aware of the nearby amenities when you choose a site.
This park is well-suited for people traveling with horses. There are multiple pens and a fenced riding arena and ample RV sites and cabins in the near the horse stalls and there is a hose wash rack.
Some of the things we liked about this park:
There is a big section of the park dedicated to horses as the National Riding Stables are located on the grounds. You can get guided tours of the battlefield on their rescue horses.
A 24/7 firewood dispensing machine– which we had never seen before• Catch and release fishing pond• Free putt putt golf.
Heated swimming pool
Clean, well-kept campground• Lots of activities for kids with playgrounds, volleyball basketball, game room, camp store, movies, pool, etc.
We paid $44/night for our full hook-up site (#45) which we didn’t think was too expensive or unreasonable. Luckily for us, nobody was next to us during our stay (in May) as the neighboring sites were pretty close and this campground probably feels very tight when it’s full. The close proximity to Gettysburg NHS was the biggest plus of this park for us.
GuideSpent a weekend at Gettysburg. We camped at Artillery Ridge Campground, which served as an artillery storage/staging area for the Union during the battle. Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts. So close to history. We have been to Gettysburg before, but going with the kids again being older, we all had a greater appreciation of the sacrifice of this 3-day battle. We did Park Ranger tours to learn about the 1st shot and how the war started to stand in the footsteps of General Buford at Senitary Ridge in the cupola overseeing the battlefield. Later in the day we took a horse carriage ride through the battlefields, Picketts Charge and the peach orchard with a private guide to learn every ounce of the battlefield and the major players to learn about the 3 days of fighting that took place to how the civilians of Gettysburg were impacted. The three day battle claimed over 50,000 lives and we toured the town of Gettysburg to learn how the community had to deal with the aftermath of the masses who perished, the smell which went on for over 30 miles and limited resources such as clean water. It's amazing to see how history was so preserved but right across the street from battlefields where so many died stands fast food restaurants, and hotels. A little surreal. Would definitely recommend a ride out to Gettysburg and this campground, which is right next to the battlefields. Clean facilities. If you are into horses, this is the place for you! Though sites are not very private, everyone is very respectful, and you are not on top of each other. Quiet hours are observed, which is nice too. Store has a great variety of souviners, treats, and emergency camping items. You can't get any closer to history than here. Would definitely recommend if you are looking to visit Gettysburg.
TravelerSome reviewers have confused nearby State Parks with the actual State Forest, resulting in inaccurate information. Despite their proximity, Caledonia and Pine Grove Furnace State Parks are NOT considered State Forest land, and have completely different amenities, availability, and regulations.
Michaux State Forest sites fall in to 4 categories:
1. Designated motorized sites, which require a free online permit and are open April 2 until the 3rd Sunday after Thanksgiving
2. Designated motorized parking lot sites, which require the same free online permit but are open year-round
3. Primitive backpacking sites, open year-round (no permit required, should be at least 1 mi from a trailhead, and only 1 night per site allowed)
4. Primitive Cabins, which are on State Forest land but are managed by and booked through the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club.
None of the sites available in Michaux have:
-electric or water hookups. If you used/saw one, you were in a State Park, not Forest.
-drinking water available at sites (some have a creek or springhouse, which must be treated first)
-restrooms (a very small number of sites have outhouses within 1/4 mi or so, but don't count on it)
All designated sites have some sort of fire ring, whether stones or metal.
Some, but not all, designated sites have picnic tables.
Cell service varies greatly. Some sites will have none without a decent drive or hike, while others have 4 bars.
Fires are not permitted at all from March 1 to May 25, and are also banned when fire danger is deemed too high.
Alcohol is permitted, except in picnic areas.
Designated motorized parking lot sites also serve as equestrian sites, and horse camping is allowed here. Teaberry has a few hitching posts and a two step mounting block available.
Pets are allowed as long as they are under control at all times and are not disturbing others. If your dog's recall is anything but perfect, they haven't earned the privilege. Use a leash or long line; remember that if your out-of-control dog gets into a fight with an aggressive but leashed dog, the fault is yours. It's not worth two sets of vet bills.
This is my go-to local place for camping and hiking alike. Michaux sits on the northern terminus of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and though they are scarcely more than foothills here compared to their majesty in more well-known areas like TN, NC, and VA, it is a place of peace and beauty all the same. Like much of the state, it's a young mixed deciduous and coniferous forest, with some open and sparsely wooded prairie/meadow sections.
GuideWe stayed at this campground during the COVID pandemic so not much was open at the campground. But from the looks of it they have a small mini golf area, nice size basketball court and a good size building for activities. This campground has horse stalls and rings if you would like to bring your own horses. There were a few families that brought their horses and they were right across from our site. Kids loved being able to see them and get close and even pet them!
This campground is minutes from town and is practically on the battlefield.
GuideThe staff are very friendly and helpful. The campground was very well maintained and clean. Bathhouse is updated and clean. The RV sites are gravel and pretty level. Fun filled weekend of activities for the whole family. Close to historic Gettysburg battleground. Fantastic horse rescue on the campground. You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback. Nice catch and release pond in campground. Will definitely be returning.
TravelerPros: Very friendly and accommodating staff. We camped in October and we had pretty much the entire place to ourselves. Beautiful lake and overall picturesque setting. Free range, friendly goats wander around, which is kinda fun. Cons: WiFi signal weak and intermittent, even close to router. We camped in sites with hookups near office and entrance and the toilets are really far. The showers are even farther-like a 15-20 minute walk with bad signage directing to. The view from the showers were breathtaking, but the showers themselves left much to be desired. We had told they had just been cleaned, but they were so old and rust stained that it still felt kinda gross. Cobwebs along ceiling, dim lighting and worn paint added to the overall dinginess. There are no hooks to hang a towel and no shower curtain, wall or door so the bench with my clothes and towel got wet as did the floor, so you step out of shower into a puddle.
GuideThis was our third stay here on our somewhat annual family meetup in Gettysburg. I always appreciate the near solitude experience of this campground as 90% of the sites are RV sites, that are kept away from the tenting area. The tenting area is calm and has a creek right next to it to listen to in the evening and morning. One of the drawbacks of this campground is that a lot of the trees are black walnut trees and the squirrels do not shy away from dropping the walnuts like bombs on your head, car, or table when you're preparing breakfast.
Gear Review: I won a pair of Treadagain sandals for one of my last campground reviews and this was the first camping trip that I took with them. When I initially bought them, they gave me an abrasion cut and I contemplated sending them back, but after wearing them more, they became more comfortable and I have found them to be ideal for walking around in all day since they have thick bottoms.
GuideShawnee State Park is about 2.5 hours east of Pittsburgh, and it has pretty much everything: swimming, fishing, boating, camping, and fairly decent hiking. It's close to some really great hiking--just outside the park--and that's how I ended up there. I was trekking on the very wild Mid-State Trail, nearby, when I opted for a night at the conventional campground in Shawnee. No regrets. I usually avoid car-camping because I don't want to listen to other people's classic rock in the woods. But this place was great. I came midweek, so I had the campground mostly to myself. The showers are hot and clean. The lake is beautiful with a nice swimming beach. The area around the park has all the scenic and historic attractions of central PA: covered bridges, big stone farmhouses, quaint towns. My only complaint is that the PA Turnpike screams a little too close by. Also, the sites are pretty close together, so be sure to look at a campground map beforehand to reserve one of the more isolated ones.
Michaux State Forest provides the primary equestrian camping options near Clear Spring, Maryland. Located at the northern end of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the forest consists of mixed deciduous and coniferous woodland. Winter temperatures average 28°F with summer highs around 84°F, creating distinct camping seasons. The forest terrain features rolling hills with elevation changes between 600-2,100 feet.
Trail riding opportunities: Peggy's Hill Parking Area Campsites in Michaux State Forest offers direct access to forest riding trails. These sites connect to the larger trail network for extended excursions.
Shooting sports: For equestrians who also enjoy target practice, The Cove Campground provides both riding trails and an outdoor shooting range. "The Cove is by far one of my favorite places to escape the DC suburbs. With great trails, a lake, and outdoor shooting range we can easily spend the whole weekend or longer," notes Victoriana P.
Lake activities: After a day of riding, many equestrians enjoy cooling off at nearby lakes. "The lake is large and clean. The staff was very friendly. Camp one had flush toilets on one end, a pit toilet on the other," reports Christopher K. about The Cove Campground.
Historical connections: Many horse campers appreciate the proximity to historical sites. "Artillery Ridge is minutes from town and is practically on the battlefield," according to Ray L. at Artillery Ridge Campground, which offers horse-friendly camping near Gettysburg.
Supportive equestrian community: "Kids loved being able to see them and get close and even pet them!" says Ray L. about the horse-friendly environment at Artillery Ridge, where multiple families bring their horses and camp across from each other.
Year-round accessibility: While Michaux State Forest's standard sites close seasonally, "Designated motorized parking lot sites, which require the same free online permit but are open year-round," explains Bridget D. about Michaux State Forest camping options.
Permit requirements: "Camping is free in several areas throughout Michaux State Forest, BUT you usually need to have a camping permit (also free) and you can only stay in designated campsites," explains Jen S. Permits for horse camping sites must be obtained online.
Seasonal restrictions: Fire regulations vary seasonally at horse camping areas. "Fires are not permitted at all from March 1 to May 25, and are also banned when fire danger is deemed too high," notes Bridget D. about Michaux State Forest.
Water limitations: "Water sources are limited to natural creeks and springs, which must be treated before use," according to forest guidelines. At Teaberry Parking Area Campsites, "It was a very large gravel lot with 5 sites along one side, pretty well spaced," reports J.A., but no water hookups are available.
Traffic patterns: At some equestrian parking lot campsites, you may experience "some traffic from people turning around etc. Wouldn't want to have Site A," advises J.A. about Teaberry Parking Area.
Interactive animal experiences: Many equestrian camping areas welcome children. "We camped in October and we had pretty much the entire place to ourselves. Beautiful lake and overall picturesque setting. Free range, friendly goats wander around, which is kinda fun," describes Nancy L. at The Cove Campground.
Space considerations: When selecting sites for horse camping with families, look for areas with ample room. "The campground is pretty close to downtown Gettysburg if you're looking for restaurants/shops. It's in the heart of the battlefield access points and trails," explains Dave G.
Weather preparations: "We camped in sites with hookups near office and entrance and the toilets are really far. The showers are even farther-like a 15-20 minute walk with bad signage directing to," warns Nancy L. about The Cove Campground. When camping with children, select sites closer to facilities.
Site leveling challenges: RVers with horse trailers should research site leveling before arrival. "I heeded the advice of other reviewers warning that many sites were not level and did not reserve ahead of time. A Monday in mid-October had many open sites," advises Lee D. about Shawnee State Park Campground, which offers horse-accessible camping areas.
Site selection strategy: "We have a 35' TT and there was no way it was going to fit in the site we originally booked. Luckily it was opening weekend and the rangers and super accommodating! We moved over one site and it made all the difference," suggests Brittany V. about Shawnee State Park, highlighting the importance of verifying site dimensions for large rigs and horse trailers.
Camp layout awareness: Many equestrian camping areas have specific layouts. "The road is gravel and could use some work, I'd recommend 4x4 drive," advises Christopher K. about accessing horse-friendly sites at The Cove Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
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