Equestrian camping near St. Leonard, Maryland centers around Cedarville State Forest's 3,510-acre property with significant trail riding opportunities. The area's mixed hardwood and pine terrain sits at approximately 200 feet above sea level with hot, humid summers featuring average July temperatures of 87°F. Camping facilities across the region generally operate from April through October with limited winter availability.
What to do
Trail riding challenges: At Pohick Bay Regional Park, riders encounter moderate trails with elevation changes. "Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!" reports Kathie M., highlighting the wildlife viewing opportunities while on horseback.
Disc golf between rides: Several parks offer disc golf courses when taking breaks from trail riding. One visitor to Pohick Bay Regional Park recommends "taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course" as Rachel L. notes it's her "go-to weekend camping spot. Just a few miles outside DC, Pohick Bay is a hidden gem in the area."
Fishing access: Waterways near riding trails provide fishing opportunities. "This is a great place to catch some good action fish. I've always had some success whenever I've been here," notes Sam D. about Martinak State Park Campground, where riders can combine trail excursions with fishing stops.
What campers like
Forest seclusion: Wooded sites provide privacy for equestrians and their horses. "Very well maintained, nice sites that aren't right on top of one another. Multiple loops for groups or individuals," notes Donald G. about Cedarville State Forest.
Clean facilities: After dusty trail rides, shower access becomes important. Mary S. appreciates the amenities at Tuckahoe State Park Campground: "Bathrooms are located in the middle of each loop, and there are spigots on the loops with potable water." The park also offers "20 miles of hiking trails are also open for biking and horseback riding."
Water proximity: Some campsites provide water access for cooling horses after rides. "Beautiful waterfront great for kayaking and water sports. No real hiking trails. Overall small quiet campground," reports Laura M. about Martinak State Park, where equestrians can access water.
What you should know
Tick prevention essential: The region's tick population requires thorough checks. "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers," advises Ben J. about Cedarville State Forest.
Limited corrals: Horse containment systems aren't provided at most parks. Nurse N. notes about Cedarville: "Great campground hidden away in the city. Clean sites include table and fire pit. Restrooms were clean, closed daily for cleaning between 1 pm - 3 pm."
Seasonal considerations: Campgrounds operate primarily April through October. "We stayed here at least 6 trips a year. Nice layout, not all sites are level (half). Staff are always nice and go out of their way to help," mentions Robert P. about Pohick Bay Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple parks feature playgrounds near equestrian trails. Ben G. shares about Pohick Bay Campground: "We had a great time here over a long weekend in August. The check in is a breeze and the staff is super nice and helpful...they had an outdoor movie scheduled for Friday night, a campfire story time scheduled for Saturday night and crafts scheduled for Sunday morning."
Junior ranger programs: Educational opportunities exist for children at certain parks. Jean C. notes about Martinak State Park Campground: "Martinak and Tuckahoe are sister parks, about 20 minutes apart. Tuckahoe offers a number of additional activities, including disc golf, mountain biking, fishing, swimming, and boating(canoe/kayak rentals available). If you're looking to learn and explore with your kids, there is an extensive junior ranger program."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe native species while camping. "Saw a snake, alligator snapping turtle, and rabbits, before we even reached the gates," reports Ben J. about Cedarville State Forest.
Tips from RVers
Site selection crucial: Many parks have variable site sizes and layouts. Buck P. warns about Tuckahoe: "The web site does not say site 21 is extremely small. We have a 25' camper, and it barely fit, length and with were an issue. The firepit was about 3-4 feet from our door."
Electric-only hookups: Most parks offer electric but not full hookups. "The campground is wooded and only has electric hookups available. The sites are well spaced. The bathhouse is dated and was clean enough to use. Good dump station and potable water fill. Spigots throughout the campground," notes Adam and Suzanne B. about Tuckahoe State Park Campground.
Leveling challenges: Some campsites require leveling equipment. "Not all sites are level (half)," notes Robert P. about Pohick Bay Campground, a consideration for RVers with horse trailers.