Artillery Ridge Campground offers equestrians direct access to Gettysburg National Historical Park. Located just 60 miles northwest of Hunt Valley, Maryland, the property maintains stalls, pens, and riding facilities at an elevation of 558 feet. Fall temperatures average 50-70°F, creating comfortable riding conditions for exploring battlefield trails.
What to do
Battlefield exploration on horseback: At Artillery Ridge Campground, riders can access historical trails directly from the property. "The National Park is mostly dog friendly. My husband caught a fish first day in the pond behind our site," notes Justine I., highlighting additional recreation options beyond riding.
Historic immersion: Camp where history happened. "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," shares MJ B.
Fishing: The small pond at Gettysburg Campground provides relaxing fishing opportunities. "Really nice place. Recommend a site by the creek," suggests Brandon W. The stream attracts wildlife and creates a peaceful setting after a day of historical exploration.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained amenities at equestrian campgrounds near Hunt Valley. "The sites were very clean, no trash, and pretty level. The staff, Glenda, were very helpful. Clean restrooms. Nice little fishing pond," reports Greg W. about his stay at Artillery Ridge.
Family-friendly activities: Lums Pond State Park Campground offers recreational options beyond riding. "Our daughter really enjoyed the playground (which was excellent, by my standards)," writes Mark. The park also features "kayaking, biking, and more" according to Matt S.
Historic proximity: Horse-friendly campgrounds provide unmatched access to historical sites. "Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts. So close to history," explains MJ B., noting the contrast between preserved battlefield areas and modern amenities nearby.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Michaux State Forest sites at Teaberry Parking Area can present unexpected challenges. "The first 3.5 days there were lantern flies actively trying to get into our rig, digging themselves behind the window screens... It was traumatic," cautions j A., noting these seasonal pests eventually disappeared.
Site spacing varies: Campgrounds differ significantly in site configuration. At Gettysburg Campground, "It is a wonderful place to have Kids. tons of things for them to do. we were in tent sites which felt bigger than most and were right by river," Kelly J. reports.
Reservation planning: Popular horse campgrounds fill quickly. At Lums Pond, Ellen B. advises: "Book early because it fills up fast!" The full hookup sites attract many RVers, especially during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife watching opportunities: Creekside sites offer excellent nature viewing for children. "Nice creek with ducks," mentions Jenny P. about Camp Winery, adding it's "Close to battlefield" for educational day trips.
Playground assessment: Check facility details before booking with young children. "My family and I stayed at this campground in late April. The staff was great. We had a site right on next to the trail going to Stangler Farm," reports Dave B., noting the game room options for rainy days.
Bathroom accessibility: Consider site location relative to facilities when camping with children. At Lums Pond, one camper observes: "Some engineering genious put the bath houses furthest from the people that need them most. Tent campers....keep your shoes handy, its a hike."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When staying at equestrian campgrounds with an RV, request sites away from the arena. "We have a motorhome with no additional vehicle and two dogs, and this site couldn't have been more perfect for us. A dog park, walking distance to most everything we wanted to see," says Justine I.
Hookup positioning: Check utility location before setting up. At Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area, RVers note the importance of proper positioning. Some sites have utilities on opposite sides, requiring careful parking.
Level site advantages: Artillery Ridge provides relatively level camping areas. "The sites are large and well spaced. Many are in full sun," reports Adam and Suzanne B., noting this makes setup easier for larger rigs at horse campgrounds near Hunt Valley.
