Equestrian enthusiasts seeking horse campgrounds near Joppa, Maryland will find several options within a 60-mile radius. The region's rolling Piedmont landscape transitions from the coastal plain to higher elevations, creating diverse terrain for horseback riding. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall offer cooler riding conditions that many equestrians prefer.
What to do
Trail riding at Tuckahoe State Park Campground: The park features 20 miles of multi-use trails open for hiking, biking and horseback riding. "Great hiking, biking, kayaking and fishing. They have a really nice playground for kids (which is separate from the campground). You can rent kayaks, canoes and fishing gear," notes Jessica K.
Fishing opportunities: Several parks offer fishing access for campers. "We took her older cousins to the fishing pier, and we didn't even get a nibble, but I think it was too cold for panfish that close to shore," shares one visitor about Lums Pond State Park. At Tuckahoe, "the Park Rangers are nicest. 5 star campground!" according to Jessica K.
Water activities: Parks with water access provide options beyond horseback riding. At Martinak State Park, there's "beautiful waterfront great for kayaking and water sports. No real hiking trails. Overall small quiet campground," according to Laura M.
What campers like
Well-spaced sites: Many campers appreciate privacy between sites. At Blackbird State Forest Campground, "the camp sites are spaced out a good amount so each site has good privacy. There are multiple port a potties here but some sites are a bit far from them. Each site has a fire pit, a grill, and two tables with a decent amount of space for tents," reports one camper.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness rates highly in reviews. "The bathhouse was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease," notes a visitor to Lums Pond State Park. At Martinak State Park Campground, "campsites and bathrooms are clean. Beautiful waterfront great for kayaking and water sports," says Laura M.
Natural surroundings: The wooded settings appeal to many campers. One Blackbird State Forest visitor shared: "Spent a weekend in BO1, spacious campsite, grill, picnic table, firepit, parking for 2-3 cars plus overflow parking. Firewood was easy to get and was plenty of it."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Popular parks fill quickly, especially during peak season. At Lums Pond State Park Campground, "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises Ellen B. "We do Lums Pond at least twice a year if we can get reservations."
Site conditions vary: Some campgrounds have limitations that might affect comfort. 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," explains Jennifer S.
Primitive options: For those seeking a more rustic experience near Joppa, there are primitive campgrounds available. "This is a good free state forest with maybe 10 (or less) designated tent-camping sites, and designated areas for deer hunting," notes one Blackbird State Forest camper. "Each campsite features a picnic table or two, and a fire pit, plus one bundle of firewood."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Several parks offer dedicated child-friendly areas. At Hibernia County Park, one camper shared: "We loved the lake campground. My kids are age 3-12. There's running water available, porta potties are very clean and don't smell and are lit with a street lamp. Very quiet at night. The park ranger this weekend was the nicest and very helpful with directions to walk to the playground and indoor restrooms."
Youth camping options: For those seeking equestrian facilities, some management areas cater specifically to youth groups. For instance, Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area features designated youth group camping areas with access to horse trails.
Fishing for kids: Some parks offer dedicated fishing areas for young anglers. At Hibernia County Park, there's a "Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too. Great playground," according to John Z., who also mentions it's "inexpensive $15 a night, but you only get picnic table and fire ring."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose appropriate sites based on RV size. At Camp Meade RV Park, campers appreciate the security of staying on a military installation. "Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post. I forgot all about revielle 🤣. They reminded me," shares Elvin J.
Hookup availability: Verify what utilities are available before arrival. At Lums Pond State Park, "Sites are big and all were redone in the last few years with concrete pads, 30 amp service and full sewer. There are some equestrian and tent sites as well," notes Ellen B.
Leveling requirements: Some campgrounds require extra effort for RV leveling. At Tuckahoe State Park, sites have well-maintained pads, though some campers note sites can be small. "We booked site 21, blind. The web site does not say site 21 is extremely small. We have a 25' camper, and it barely fit, length and with were an issue," warns Buck P.
