Michaux State Forest contains multiple equestrian camping areas within 30 minutes of Boonsboro, Maryland. Located in the northern Blue Ridge Mountains, the elevation ranges from 600 to 2,100 feet with a humid continental climate. Horse owners can find designated motorized parking lot sites in the forest that accommodate equestrian camping throughout the year, with specific amenities for horses.
What to do
Trail riding in historic areas: Gettysburg Campground provides access to riding areas near the historic battlefields. "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. not far to go anywhere walking," notes Kelly J., who visited with family.
Fishing in scenic waters: The Cove Campground offers a lake for fishing with multiple access points. One camper reports, "My husband caught a fish first day in the pond behind our site," while others mention the "large lake for the kids" that provides recreation options after trail rides.
Historical exploration between rides: The proximity to Gettysburg National Military Park allows riders to combine history with horseback experiences. "Very nice place. Recommend a site by the creek... Not to mention it's a few minute drive to historic Gettysburg," notes Brandon W., highlighting the convenient location for exploring battlefields between trail rides.
What campers like
Direct trail access: Michaux State Forest offers free camping with connections to trail systems. As one camper explains, "Michaux sits on the northern terminus of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and though they are scarcely more than foothills here compared to their majesty in more well-known areas like TN, NC, and VA, it is a place of peace and beauty all the same."
Equine facilities: Teaberry Parking Area provides specific amenities for horse owners. "It was a very large gravel lot with 5 sites along one side, pretty well spaced. The campsites were pretty," reports a recent visitor, noting the spacious layout that works well for horse trailers.
Peace and quiet: Many campers appreciate the tranquility of forest camping. A Bull Run camper shares, "The sites are all pull-through off the roads through the campground. So your camper faces the woods and you feel like you're all alone," demonstrating the privacy available at some horse-friendly campgrounds.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Some horse campgrounds near Boonsboro operate seasonally. Gettysburg Campground runs from "Early Apr to Mid Nov," which coincides with optimal riding conditions in the region.
Permit requirements: Bull Run Regional Park requires advance planning. One camper notes, "We tent camped there with 2 other families memorial day weekend. It rained the entire time but we still had a blast," highlighting the need for weather preparedness when camping with horses.
Site options vary: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of development. "None of the sites available in Michaux have electric or water hookups. If you used/saw one, you were in a State Park, not Forest," explains one Michaux camper, emphasizing the primitive nature of forest camping.
Varied terrain: The riding trails around Boonsboro feature diverse landscapes. "Like much of the state, it's a young mixed deciduous and coniferous forest, with some open and sparsely wooded prairie/meadow sections," reports a Michaux regular, providing insight into the riding environments.
Tips for camping with families
Safety first: Keep children supervised around horses and water features. "There a water park type thing here. Hiking, biking, swimming, fishing. Downfall there's a shooting range near by so can be kind of noisy," warns a Bull Run camper, highlighting the need for awareness of surroundings.
Entertainment options: Artillery Ridge Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "Pool, mini golf and live music were great. Also amazing location to the battlefield and all the tourist attractions," shares Brett D., describing activities beyond horseback riding.
Educational opportunities: Combine camping with learning experiences. "We did Park Ranger tours to learn about the 1st shot and how the war started to stand in the footsteps of General Buford at Senitary Ridge in the cupola overseeing the battlefield," recounts an Artillery Ridge visitor, showing how historical education enhances the camping experience.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose campgrounds with adequate space for horse trailers. "The sites were very clean, no trash, and pretty level. The staff, Glenda, were very helpful," notes an Artillery Ridge camper, emphasizing the importance of level sites when parking larger rigs with horse trailers.
Services and hookups: Verify available amenities before arrival. "Our site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level," advises a Bull Run camper, providing practical advice for RVers with horse trailers.
Reservation timing: Book early for equestrian sites, especially during peak seasons. "We arrived late at night and finding our site was easy. Very spacious sites and awesome views of the forest," shares a Bull Run visitor, highlighting the importance of secured reservations when traveling with horses.
