Best Equestrian Camping near Point of Rocks, MD

Horse camping near Point of Rocks, Maryland offers limited dedicated equestrian facilities. Camp Winery, located within 20 miles, permits camping with horses but lacks permanent horse-specific amenities such as corrals or stalls. Campers typically bring portable corrals or use high-line setups for overnight horse containment. The campground provides drinking water, fire rings, picnic tables, and basic toilet facilities, making it suitable for primitive equestrian camping. Sites accommodate both tents and smaller RVs, though the terrain may present challenges for larger horse trailers during wet conditions.

Trail access includes connections to regional bridle paths that wind through the Maryland countryside near the Potomac River. Horse owners should bring all necessary equipment including portable water troughs, feed storage containers, and waste management tools as manure disposal facilities are not provided. Local regulations require removal of all horse waste from campsites. The proximity to historical sites and wineries makes this area attractive for riders seeking day trip opportunities between camping. The shooting range at nearby Bull Run Regional Park creates significant noise that can disturb horses unaccustomed to gunfire sounds, particularly during daylight hours when the range is active.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Point of Rocks, Maryland (14)

    1. Bull Run Regional Park

    42 Reviews
    Iron Gate, VA
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 631-0550

    $34 - $90 / night

    "History buffs will like to explore the park surrounding the campground. Fun little water park within walking distance of all campsites that was great for kids."

    "We booked site 136 due to proximity of the playground (traveling with a 5 & 10 yr old). The site was great except the weird parking stops on every site but the pull throughs."

    2. Camp Winery

    1 Review
    Libertytown, MD
    21 miles
    +1 (240) 674-1702

    "Close to many cool things in the area too"

    3. Artillery Ridge Campground

    26 Reviews
    Gettysburg, PA
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 334-1288

    "This park is a perfect location if you want to explore Gettysburg National Historical Site as you can literally walk across the street and be in the park or venture½ mile up the road and you come to the"

    "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded."

    4. Pohick Bay Campground

    38 Reviews
    Lorton, VA
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 339-6104

    $33 - $150 / night

    "We have been camping here for nearly 20 years. Each military tour brought us back to this area so Pohick became our second home. Our kids kayak now older but used to walk the trails as little kids."

    "We enjoyed sitting around the campfire at night and walking the dogs down to the water. We were right next to a hiking trail that went down to the water and a beach area."

    5. Gettysburg Campground

    26 Reviews
    Gettysburg, PA
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 642-5713

    "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."

    "If you’re looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn’t it."

    6. The Cove Campground

    15 Reviews
    High View, WV
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 858-2882

    "Several rustic campsites with a large lake for the kids, and miles of off road trails for atvs, jeeps, and dirtbikes."

    "The road is gravel and could use some work, I’d recommend 4x4 drive. We really enjoyed it and will go back. The reason for 4 stars instead of 5, water situation and the roads could use some work."

    7. Michaux State Forest

    6 Reviews
    Shippensburg, PA
    49 miles
    Website

    $10 / night

    "Some reviewers have confused nearby State Parks with the actual State Forest, resulting in inaccurate information."

    "Every January for the last few years some friends and I have gone and camped along the Appalachian Trail."

    8. Teaberry Parking Area Campsites — Michaux State Forest

    1 Review
    South Mountain, PA
    39 miles
    +1 (717) 352-2211

    $10 / night

    9. Camp Meade RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Odenton, MD
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 722-4237
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Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Point of Rocks, MD

5 Photos of 14 Point of Rocks Campgrounds


Equestrian Camping Reviews near Point of Rocks, MD

162 Reviews of 14 Point of Rocks Campgrounds


  • Nancy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 30, 2021

    Artillery Ridge Campground

    Great Location to Battlefield

    This park is a perfect location if you want to explore Gettysburg National Historical Site as you can literally walk across the street and be in the park or venture½ mile up the road and you come to the park’s main visitor center. The campground has a bunch of different sites whether you want to spend more money for a premium full hook-up or save a few bucks and just get water and electric. There are lots of tent sites, cabins, and horse stalls with a corral for those traveling with horses. The park is also very close to the historic downtown so you don’t have to drive too far for the attractions. 

    We were able to do contactless check-in by making the reservation and paying over the phone. When we arrived, they had a packet out on a picnic table for us with directions to our site and information about the park and the surrounding area. But, the best part of the check-in was that we got a free bundle of wood and the cutest little s’mores packet which had just enough fixings for the two of us. Such a great touch that we really appreciated. We had a gravel pull thru site which was easy to navigate in and out of with our tow car attached and was plenty long enough. The roads are gravel but were not dusty. The site and patio were gravel and a mix of grass. The campground was very clean and well-cared for. 

    Some of the sites are in the open without much shade but some other areas have some nice shade.  Most of the tent section is pretty open with a few trees scattered about.  Some of the sites (i.e., 82) is very close to the playground and the fishing pond which get quite a bit of action so be aware of the nearby amenities when you choose a site.  

    This park is well-suited for people traveling with horses. There are multiple pens and a fenced riding arena and ample RV sites and cabins in the near the horse stalls and there is a hose wash rack. 

    Some of the things we liked about this park:

    • There is a big section of the park dedicated to horses as the National Riding Stables are located on the grounds. You can get guided tours of the battlefield on their rescue horses.

    • A 24/7 firewood dispensing machine– which we had never seen before• Catch and release fishing pond• Free putt putt golf.

    • Heated swimming pool

    • Clean, well-kept campground• Lots of activities for kids with playgrounds, volleyball basketball, game room, camp store, movies, pool, etc.

    We paid $44/night for our full hook-up site (#45) which we didn’t think was too expensive or unreasonable. Luckily for us, nobody was next to us during our stay (in May) as the neighboring sites were pretty close and this campground probably feels very tight when it’s full. The close proximity to Gettysburg NHS was the biggest plus of this park for us.

  • MJ B.
    Jun. 19, 2024

    Artillery Ridge Campground

    Camping as close to history as you can get

    Spent a weekend at Gettysburg. 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. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts. So close to history. We have been to Gettysburg before, but going with the kids again being older, we all had a greater appreciation of the sacrifice of this 3-day battle. 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. Later in the day we took a horse carriage ride through the battlefields, Picketts Charge and the peach orchard with a private guide to learn every ounce of the battlefield and the major players to learn about the 3 days of fighting that took place to how the civilians of Gettysburg were impacted. The three day battle claimed over 50,000 lives and we toured the town of Gettysburg to learn how the community had to deal with the aftermath of the masses who perished, the smell which went on for over 30 miles and limited resources such as clean water. It's amazing to see how history was so preserved but right across the street from battlefields where so many died stands fast food restaurants, and hotels. A little surreal. Would definitely recommend a ride out to Gettysburg and this campground, which is right next to the battlefields. Clean facilities. If you are into horses, this is the place for you! Though sites are not very private, everyone is very respectful, and you are not on top of each other. Quiet hours are observed, which is nice too. Store has a great variety of souviners, treats, and emergency camping items. You can't get any closer to history than here. Would definitely recommend if you are looking to visit Gettysburg.

  • B
    Sep. 1, 2022

    Michaux State Forest

    Motorized and Primitive Sites, but double check info.

    Some reviewers have confused nearby State Parks with the actual State Forest, resulting in inaccurate information. Despite their proximity, Caledonia and Pine Grove Furnace State Parks are NOT considered State Forest land, and have completely different amenities, availability, and regulations.

    Michaux State Forest sites fall in to 4 categories:

    1. Designated motorized sites, which require a free online permit and are open April 2 until the 3rd Sunday after Thanksgiving

    2. Designated motorized parking lot sites, which require the same free online permit but are open year-round

    3. Primitive backpacking sites, open year-round (no permit required, should be at least 1 mi from a trailhead, and only 1 night per site allowed)

    4. Primitive Cabins, which are on State Forest land but are managed by and booked through the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club.

    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.

    -drinking water available at sites (some have a creek or springhouse, which must be treated first)

    -restrooms (a very small number of sites have outhouses within 1/4 mi or so, but don't count on it)

    All designated sites have some sort of fire ring, whether stones or metal.

    Some, but not all, designated sites have picnic tables.

    Cell service varies greatly. Some sites will have none without a decent drive or hike, while others have 4 bars.

    Fires are not permitted at all from March 1 to May 25, and are also banned when fire danger is deemed too high.

    Alcohol is permitted, except in picnic areas.

    Designated motorized parking lot sites also serve as equestrian sites, and horse camping is allowed here. Teaberry has a few hitching posts and a two step mounting block available.

    Pets are allowed as long as they are under control at all times and are not disturbing others. If your dog's recall is anything but perfect, they haven't earned the privilege. Use a leash or long line; remember that if your out-of-control dog gets into a fight with an aggressive but leashed dog, the fault is yours. It's not worth two sets of vet bills.

    This is my go-to local place for camping and hiking alike. 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. Like much of the state, it's a young mixed deciduous and coniferous forest, with some open and sparsely wooded prairie/meadow sections.

  • R
    Oct. 31, 2020

    Artillery Ridge Campground

    Pretty much on the battlefield

    We stayed at this campground during the COVID pandemic so not much was open at the campground. But from the looks of it they have a small mini golf area, nice size basketball court and a good size building for activities. This campground has horse stalls and rings if you would like to bring your own horses. There were a few families that brought their horses and they were right across from our site. Kids loved being able to see them and get close and even pet them!

    This campground is minutes from town and is practically on the battlefield.

  • Z
    Jul. 5, 2021

    Artillery Ridge Campground

    Amazing 4th of July Weekend

    The staff are very friendly and helpful. The campground was very well maintained and clean. Bathhouse is updated and clean. The RV sites are gravel and pretty level. Fun filled weekend of activities for the whole family. Close to historic Gettysburg battleground. Fantastic horse rescue on the campground. You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback. Nice catch and release pond in campground. Will definitely be returning.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 29, 2024

    Pohick Bay Campground

    Good trip

    We have been camping here for nearly 20 years. Each military tour brought us back to this area so Pohick became our second home. Our kids kayak now older but used to walk the trails as little kids. The waterpark is new and loud so we avoid but nice if you have young kids. Careful low bridge on Route 1 exit ramp little warning when taking ramp off I95. Go around to next exit. The check in at the cap store is crowded and narrow even with renovations but our 34 ft makes it okay. Bring bikes. Long bike trail along road. Farmers markets in Lorton and things to do in DC. Park at Huntington or Springfield metro. Short boat ride straight across from Ft Belvoir new family campground. Ice cream shop in season by water docks. Bathrooms clean always hot water three stalls each. Sink outside for dishes. Playground buts up against inner circle which are the only sewer sites. Others are electric water. Careful some near steep drop off. Stick to main road or inner circle or first circle if in big unit. Must go round circle to get to those spots which can be annoying. Two speed bumps. Camp store sells smores ingredients, limited candy, no eggs or bacon get those off Rte 1. Past entrance on Rte 1 is a Food Lion, McDonalds. Gas stations along Rte one are tight so fill up before exiting to campground. If you are desperate there is gas 7/11 at corner of Pohick and Rte 1 but its sketchy. Up the road off Rte 1 is Fort Belvoir Access w a drivers license however cant shop without military sponsored ID. Great bbq at Telegraph Rd and greek at Olympians family restaurant. Movie theater on Telegraph is nice. Springfield Mall close. Take Onville Rd which is a backroad by Pohick Church to shortcut to Rte 1. Pohick Rd past camping turn deadends into private neighborhood. Do not pass camp entrance. Hard to turn around if you do. Near End of Pohick is a small walk with overlook. See birds at point. Drive a car not RV. Park at lot on right before road split deadend. Gunston Hall on left can see from campground and water. Tours are nice.

  • N
    Feb. 19, 2020

    The Cove Campground

    Beautiful nature. Not so beautiful bathrooms.

    Pros: Very friendly and accommodating staff. We camped in October and we had pretty much the entire place to ourselves. Beautiful lake and overall picturesque setting. Free range, friendly goats wander around, which is kinda fun. Cons: WiFi signal weak and intermittent, even close to router. We camped in sites with hookups near office and entrance and the toilets are really far. The showers are even farther-like a 15-20 minute walk with bad signage directing to. The view from the showers were breathtaking, but the showers themselves left much to be desired. We had told they had just been cleaned, but they were so old and rust stained that it still felt kinda gross. Cobwebs along ceiling, dim lighting and worn paint added to the overall dinginess. There are no hooks to hang a towel and no shower curtain, wall or door so the bench with my clothes and towel got wet as did the floor, so you step out of shower into a puddle.

  • Dave G.
    Sep. 24, 2017

    Gettysburg Campground

    Quiet, Plentiful, Not Cheap

    This was our third stay here on our somewhat annual family meetup in Gettysburg. 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. The tenting area is calm and has a creek right next to it to listen to in the evening and morning. One of the drawbacks of this campground is that a lot of the trees are black walnut trees and the squirrels do not shy away from dropping the walnuts like bombs on your head, car, or table when you're preparing breakfast.

    Gear Review: I won a pair of Treadagain sandals for one of my last campground reviews and this was the first camping trip that I took with them. When I initially bought them, they gave me an abrasion cut and I contemplated sending them back, but after wearing them more, they became more comfortable and I have found them to be ideal for walking around in all day since they have thick bottoms.

  • Kelsey K.
    Jul. 4, 2021

    Pohick Bay Campground

    Family oriented, but super close and not private

    Initially disappointed by the tiny spot we got, but we were able to move. Majority of the spots are extremely close to the next and doesn't allow much privacy. Very few trees in between. We chose another spot that was available, however, we found out the first night that there is a boat area and bright light all night right behind us and the light came through the tent. Another dissapointment. We camped in a tent and did 3 nights, 4 days. (4th of July weekend) We loved the family friendliness that allowed us to walk right down the street/trail to take our kids to the water park. They give you a discounted price if you are camping. They also have mini golf and disc golf near by as well. If we come again, we will definitely be more particular about our spot. They also had bathrooms and showers not to far from our spot that were actually clean.


Guide to Point of Rocks

Horse campgrounds near Point of Rocks, Maryland are located within a 45-minute drive radius of the city. The area sits at the foothills of Catoctin Mountain, with elevations ranging from 280 to 1,900 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F during daytime hours, with cooler 60-70°F conditions at higher elevation campsites.

What to do

Horseback trails access: Bull Run Regional Park connects to bridle paths through wooded areas. "Beautiful and quiet. Very spacious sites and awesome views of the forest," notes Charyssa G. The park maintains mixed-use trails suitable for both experienced riders and beginners.

Shooting ranges: The Cove Campground offers outdoor shooting facilities for target practice. "This Campground had everything I wanted. Shooting range, ATV trails, fishing, hiking and great campsites," reports Ben M. Range hours typically run 9am-5pm with daily usage fees around $15-25 depending on membership status.

Historical tours: Artillery Ridge Campground provides direct battlefield access. "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts," explains MJ B. Guided horseback battlefield tours operate daily from April through October.

What campers like

Natural water features: Streams and creeks provide natural water access at several equestrian camping areas. "We were in tent sites which felt bigger than most and were right by river. Not far to go anywhere walking," reports Kelly J. from Gettysburg Campground. These water sources require treatment before consumption.

Varied terrain: Michaux State Forest offers diverse landscape for riding. "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," describes Bridget D. The forest contains both wooded trails and open meadow sections.

Rustic amenities: Camp Winery maintains basic facilities without excessive development. "Very beautiful spot, did some tent camping. Close to many cool things in the area too," notes Sammii D. Sites remain primitive with central water access points rather than individual hookups.

What you should know

Noise considerations: Adjacent shooting ranges can disturb horses at certain campgrounds. "The only drawback is that it is not quite [quiet]. There is a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I66 is not that far away," warns Drew M. about Bull Run Regional Park. First-time campers should select sites farthest from these facilities.

Seasonal crowding: Summer weekends see significant visitor increases. "We camped in October and we had pretty much the entire place to ourselves," reports Nancy L. from The Cove Campground. Reservations become essential between Memorial Day and Labor Day, with 2-3 month advance booking recommended.

Limited cell service: Communication connectivity varies significantly between equestrian campgrounds. "Cell service varies greatly. Some sites will have none without a decent drive or hike, while others have 4 bars," explains Bridget D. about Michaux State Forest. Emergency communication devices are recommended for remote trail rides.

Tips for camping with families

Activity planning: Pohick Bay Campground offers diverse recreation options beyond horseback riding. "We had a great time here over a long weekend in August. They informed us that they had a scavenger hunt for the kids going all weekend, they had an outdoor movie scheduled for Friday night, a campfire story time scheduled for Saturday night and crafts scheduled for Sunday morning," says Ben G.

Insect preparation: Tick prevention becomes critical during summer months in wooded horse camping areas. "Bugs weren't a problem at all" reports Jacob I. about The Cove Campground when visiting in mid-May, indicating seasonal variation in insect populations. Permethrin-treated riding clothes and daily tick checks are recommended.

Weather contingencies: Rain can significantly impact trail conditions and site access. "While we were here, there was a fairly heavy day of rain. Couple inches, I suppose, but nothing Biblical. The mouths of the metal culverts in our loop were bent downward from campers driving over them, which obstructed the flow. Result was lots of standing water at our campsite," cautions Stuart O.

Tips from RVers

Site selection: Gettysburg Campground provides limited but functional RV facilities near horse trails. "Small sites but some are along the creek. Playground and mini golf available. Close to battlefields," notes Benjamin A. Horse trailer parking requires advance notification, with limited pull-through options available.

Seasonal road conditions: Gravel access roads deteriorate during wet periods. "The road is gravel and could use some work, I'd recommend 4x4 drive," advises Christopher K. about The Cove Campground. Spring camping often requires higher-clearance vehicles for horse trailer access.

Advance preparation: Limited on-site services require self-sufficiency. "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," clarifies Bridget D. RVers should arrive with full water tanks and charged batteries when visiting equestrian campgrounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Point of Rocks, MD?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Point of Rocks, MD is Bull Run Regional Park with a 4-star rating from 42 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Point of Rocks, MD?

TheDyrt.com has all 14 equestrian camping locations near Point of Rocks, MD, with real photos and reviews from campers.