C
Christopher P.
Scout
ScoutBig Run State Park Campground
Generous sized sites, quiet, beautiful area.
Equestrian Camping near Lonaconing, MD
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Shawnee State Park Campground accommodates equestrians with its spacious campsites and trail access options, located approximately 75 miles from Lonaconing, Maryland — making it one of the most practical horse camping destinations in the region. For riders planning extended stays, the campground offers electric hookups, water hookups, and sewer hookups for RVs, while also maintaining tent sites, cabins, yurts, and glamping accommodations. Although no dedicated horse corrals appear in the facility listings, reviews indicate the campground area occasionally smells of horse manure, suggesting equestrian use is permitted on the grounds. Sites are generously spaced with tree coverage providing natural shade for horses and riders alike. The 258-acre lake provides water access, and the campground's well-maintained facilities include showers, toilets, and sanitary dump stations for extended stays.
Trail riders can access multiple hiking paths around the lake perimeter that connect to larger trail networks. The trail system offers varied terrain suitable for riders of different experience levels. Equestrians should note that reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons when the campground fills quickly. The campground remains open year-round, though winter conditions may limit trail access in certain areas. Trailer parking is available at designated areas within the park, and the spacious sites accommodate vehicle and trailer combinations. The Jean Bonnet Tavern nearby offers meals in a historic setting after a day of riding.
Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Lonaconing (5)
1. Big Run State Park Campground
"This is one of my favorite Western Maryland hideaways. The best spots are in the woods adjacent to the stream. You can set up your camp chair and enjoy the creek sounds."
"You have to know what you're getting here - there ARE campsites with amenities, near water and bathrooms, but not all of them have the amenities. "
from $10 - $55 / night
Check Availability2. Shawnee State Park Campground
"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 $20 - $110 / night
Check Availability3. The Cove Campground
"Such a huge diversity of types of sites, from lakeside to wooded, to open fields. They have something for everyone. The bathrooms are ok. "
"Several rustic campsites with a large lake for the kids, and miles of off road trails for atvs, jeeps, and dirtbikes."
4. Trout Pond Recreation Area
"There is Rockcliff lake and small beach area, an overlook (Lina Constable Overlook) to hike to right off the camp loop but it’s 1 mile steep incline at times but worth every step. Gorgeous!"
"The area closes completely (entrance gate is locked) from Dec 21 - May 1. The site was super clean and well maintained. Lots of hiking trails and a very easy one that loops around the Rockcliff Lake."
from $25 - $105 / night
Check Availability5. Lost River State Park Campground
Drive Time
- 1 hr 1 min from Morgantown, WV
- 1 hr 13 min from Hagerstown, MD
- 1 hr 14 min from Johnstown, PA
- 1 hr 34 min from Winchester, VA
Equestrian Camping Reviews near Lonaconing, MD
57 Reviews of 5 Lonaconing Campgrounds
- SSteve B.Scout
The Cove Campground
Excellent Campground
Was looking for a last-minute getaway on a busy weekend, and they seemed the best option. I've always associated private campgrounds with crowding and sites on top of each other. I couldn't have been more wrong about The Cove. There is more wooded space between sites than in many National Parks.
Some sections are best accessed via 4WD, which I think is a great way to keep things from getting too crowded.
Such a huge diversity of types of sites, from lakeside to wooded, to open fields. They have something for everyone.
The bathrooms are ok. Other than the shower area and the reception, most toilets are pit toilets. If you want to be walking distance to showers, make sure to book sites near them. For most sites, it's going to be a hike or a drive.
And on top of that, they have a beach for the kids, boat rentals, and a range.
This was our first visit, but we will definitely be coming back.
Nancy B.
RangerShawnee State Park Campground
Well maintained
The sites and roads are well maintained. Some sites are on hilly roads but are acceptable for tenters. The bathhouse is older but the showers are hot. August 2026
Brittany V.
LegendShawnee State Park Campground
Double check site booked
We absolutely loved our stay at this park once we changed sites. 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. The sites are spacious with a ton of tree coverage. Easy access to the dump station as you exit. It’s not directly on the lake but there is a ton of parking and easy access points.
- KKarl S.Scout
The Cove Campground
Good little get away
You drive deep into the woods to get here, which gives it that true, off-the-grid campground feel. There are several different camping areas, and depending on where you end up, you might have a short walk to reach the best fishing spots. It’s worth noting that cell service is minimal to nonexistent — not a big deal for most campers, but something to keep in mind.
One unique (and awesome) touch: there are goats casually roaming around the campground. It adds a fun, unexpected charm to the place.
The campground is clean, the staff is friendly, and the fishing is solid. Whether you’re there to relax, explore, or cast a line, it delivers the rustic experience you’re probably looking for.
Lee D.LegendShawnee State Park Campground
Huge state park
General: 300+ site campground with a mix of FHU, 30 and 50-amp electric, and non-electric tent sites, yurts, and cabins. Select loops allow pets but not all do.
Site Quality: Varies by type and location within the park. 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. Most of the non-electric sites were decidedly not level but many of the FHU and electric sites were fairly level, and we did not have a problem finding one. Some sites have gravel pads that were level and vary in length from 20’ to 115’ Most of the non-electric sites had no definable pads at all and as mentioned, were not level. Some roads in the campground were paved but a few were not.
Bath/Shower House: was clean. Did not use the shower.
Activities: A somewhat dated playground was located in the A Loop. A lake and beach are a short distance from the campground. We did see a boat launch and what appeared to be kayak rentals, but we were there out of season.
As remote as the campground feels, there was a surprising amount of road noise. This was just an overnight stay for us. We’ve been to many stellar Pennsylvania state park campgrounds, but this one was not as good as many others.
- JJennifer R.Scout
Shawnee State Park Campground
Loved the park but not the site
We loved the swimming and fishing in this park. Awesome Sandy swim beach and roped off area in the water made it great for keeping an eye on the kids while they swam. We had site 59 and are tent campers. This site was on an incline so the cots we brought were pretty miserable to sleep on. This spot was in its own little wooded cubby hole so it gave us a little more privacy but we thought that a lot of these sites were much too close together. We plan to scope out other sites to find a more level and more private option. Overall we really loved the park itself and will be back!
Rick G.LegendShawnee State Park Campground
Met our Needs Perfectly
Booked for 5 nights to have an opportunity to explore the Bedford, PA area. Great access to Flight 93 Memorial, local covered bridges, Fort Bedford Historic Fort, and many other attractions. Loop D was quiet with ample space between sites that provided privacy. Bathhouse was clean and used for showers. Dump and water fill station easy to access on your way in or out. Verizon signal good enough for streaming.
- KKatie H.Scout
Big Run State Park Campground
Great primitive campsite
This is one of my favorite Western Maryland hideaways. The best spots are in the woods adjacent to the stream. You can set up your camp chair and enjoy the creek sounds. The camp sites next to the reservoir have no privacy but offer extremely easy access for canoes/kayaks. Clean and well maintained. The camp store nearby offers a good selection of basics along with boat rentals
Guide to Lonaconing
Lost River State Park Campground in West Virginia offers limited options for equestrians planning to camp near Lonaconing, Maryland. The park accommodates tent and cabin camping with access to trails that can be used for horseback riding. Basic facilities include pit toilets and fire rings, though no specific horse corrals or dedicated equestrian facilities appear in the campground data. Sites require reservations and fires are permitted at designated spots. The streams and forested areas create natural appeal for riders seeking primitive camping experiences.
Trail access near Lonaconing provides the main draw for equestrians visiting this region. The surrounding state forests and parks connect to a network of trails suitable for day rides. Located approximately 70 miles from Lonaconing, Lost River State Park positions riders near scenic woodland terrain and mountainous landscapes. Trailheads typically provide adequate parking for horse trailers, though advance planning is recommended as dedicated equestrian camping infrastructure is minimal in the immediate area. Seasonal considerations affect trail conditions, with spring and fall offering optimal riding weather. Most camping areas maintain quiet hours and specific rules regarding horse containment that should be verified before arrival.
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Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Lonaconing, MD?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Lonaconing, MD is Big Run State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 7 reviews.
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What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Lonaconing, MD?
TheDyrt.com has all 5 equestrian camping locations near Lonaconing, MD, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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