The Darlington area features diverse terrain across 5,600 acres of woodland and meadows with elevations ranging from 200-500 feet. Horse camping opportunities near Darlington, Maryland include rustic facilities designed specifically for equestrian needs. Most sites experience mild spring and fall temperatures with summer highs averaging in the upper 80s.
What to do
Trail riding beyond borders: At Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area, equestrian trails connect to larger networks across state lines. The campground hosts primitive youth group camping facilities that follow specific guidelines outlined on their website.
Fishing in stocked ponds: Several dedicated fishing areas are available near campgrounds in the region. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish. Ice fishing is also allowed at both lakes and the ice thickness is monitored," notes a camper from French Creek State Park.
Kayaking calm waters: Launch points are available at multiple locations. One visitor at Tuckahoe State Park explains, "The camp sites are spaced out nicely. If you stay on the tent side there is a kayak launch. You can rent kayaks, canoes and fishing gear."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: The natural separation between sites creates seclusion. A visitor to Hibernia County Park shared, "We LOVE this campground. It's tiny (19 sites in Fiddlers loop), it's quiet, it's heavily wooded. The trails were well marked, and the day we took a hike, we ended up on the equestrian trail."
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards remain high across most equestrian campgrounds. A recent visitor to Blackbird State Forest remarked, "Each site has a fire pit, a grill, and two tables with a decent amount of space for tents. Only 8 sites in the campground, very spaced apart."
Accessible trail systems: Most horse campgrounds provide direct access to trail networks. "Nice pads, even with rain none were flooded. The wooded area makes you feel a little more secluded from any neighbors. The state park has two playgrounds that are both open and trails to hike," noted a visitor to Tuckahoe State Park.
What you should know
Advance reservations essential: The limited number of equestrian campsites fill quickly. A visitor to Lums Pond State Park advises, "Book early because it fills up fast! Sites are big and all were redone in the last few years with concrete pads, 30 amp service and full sewer."
Varying hookup availability: Not all equestrian sites offer full utilities. At Starlite Camping Resort, "We had two sites this trip with water and electric, but they do have quite a few full hook-up sites. Overall the sites were large, with trees between, providing additional privacy."
Seasonal operation limitations: Some facilities close during winter months. "Tuckahoe offers two loops: a tent/cabin site, and an electric site for RVs. The sites are well maintained. The bathroom/showers are the cleanest I've ever seen, especially since we stayed in the hottest time of the year."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple horse campgrounds include child-friendly areas. "The state park has two playgrounds that are both open and trails to hike. I LOVE the commercial-sized washing sink for your dishes, since you don't have full hookups it's a BIG deal," shared a visitor to Tuckahoe State Park.
Educational opportunities: Several nearby historical sites provide learning experiences. At French Creek State Park, "There are a ton of picnic tables too so you can take a lunch and just sit by the lake to relax and have a bite to eat. We have also attending an Orienteering event here which was nation wide and really exciting."
Fishing programs for children: Youth-focused fishing areas exist at multiple locations. A visitor to Hibernia County Park noted, "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing. Great for families. We are already planning our next trip."
Tips from RVers
Site sizing considerations: Match your RV length to appropriate sites. A Camp Meade visitor advised, "We had a nice shady spot, what was great with a heat of 94F. Did stay here after visiting Vicksburg. Nice clean restrooms and showers."
Water access planning: Not all sites provide direct hookups. At Hibernia County Park, "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank."
Level site selection: The region's rolling terrain affects parking. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers," notes a visitor to French Creek State Park.
