Artillery Ridge Campground provides equestrian travelers with specialized amenities about 60 miles from Lutherville Timonium, Maryland. The wooded setting in Gettysburg offers direct access to historical riding trails with elevation changes between 440-520 feet throughout the property. Weather conditions typically feature warm summers and moderate winters, making spring and fall ideal for horse camping trips.
What to do
Explore battlefield history on horseback: Visitors at Artillery Ridge Campground can ride through historically significant terrain. According to one camper, "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."
Fish in on-site ponds: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing opportunities without leaving the property. As one guest noted at Artillery Ridge, "My husband caught a fish first day in the pond behind our site." Another camper at Gettysburg Campground appreciated "Great spot. Nice creek with ducks. Close to battlefield."
Kayak through serene waterways: Tuckahoe State Park Campground provides water recreation options within 90 minutes of Lutherville Timonium. A visitor mentions, "If you stay on the tent side there is a kayak launch. You can rent kayaks, canoes and fishing gear."
What campers like
Proximity to historical attractions: Horse campgrounds near Lutherville Timonium, Maryland offer convenient access to significant sites. One Artillery Ridge visitor shared, "Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts. So close to history."
Family-friendly activities: Campgrounds often provide organized events and recreation. A camper at Artillery Ridge noted, "Fun filled weekend of activities for the whole family. Close to historic Gettysburg battleground. Fantastic horse rescue on the campground."
Spacious sites for equestrian setups: Lums Pond State Park Campground receives praise for its layout. A recent visitor commented, "Beautiful park setting with fantastic site— spacious, level, good-working hookups, and paved."
What you should know
Seasonal construction affects amenities: Some facilities undergo periodic improvements that may impact availability. At Artillery Ridge, a camper observed, "The only issue is there is a lot of construction at the moment. No pool, no mini golf, and a lot of sites are closed. The good news is they expect all work done by the summer."
Reservations required well in advance: Popular equestrian campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. A visitor to Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area noted, "There are two primitive youth group camping areas. There are specific rules that need to be followed and the guidelines are on the website."
Variable cell reception: Connectivity can be inconsistent at rural horse camping locations. A camper at Artillery Ridge mentioned, "AT&T cell reception at our site was hit or miss, but good in the rest of the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds near equestrian areas: Children can enjoy recreation while still being close to horses. A visitor to Tuckahoe State Park shared, "They have a really nice playground for kids (which is separate from the campground)."
Check for educational programs: Some horse facilities offer learning opportunities. At Artillery Ridge, campers can experience "guided tours of the battlefield on horseback."
Consider cabin options for mixed comfort levels: Camp Winery provides alternative accommodations. A visitor commented, "Very beautiful spot, did some tent camping. Close to many cool things in the area too."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters for horse trailers: Choose locations with adequate space for vehicles and trailers. At Gettysburg Campground, a guest recommended, "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."
Utility placement varies between campgrounds: Check hookup locations before setting up. One Gettysburg Campground visitor warned, "We arrived to find what seemed more like a large field! Very few trees, not much shade at all! The site offered electric and water but they were on 2 different sides. This made it difficult to set up."
Check for equestrian-specific hookups: Some sites offer specialized amenities for horse owners. At Lums Pond State Park, a camper reported, "Sites are big and all were redone in the last few years with concrete pads, 30 amp service and full sewer."
