Best Equestrian Camping near Dowell, MD
Cedarville State Forest provides limited equestrian options near Dowell, Maryland, with established trails shared between hikers and horseback riders. The campground features one loop with 27 sites accommodating tents, RVs, and small trailers, though none specifically designed with horse corrals or dedicated equestrian facilities. Electric hookups are available on the inner loop sites, while all campsites include a fire ring and picnic table on gravel pads. Visitors often encounter horses from nearby private farms using the trail system. The restrooms and showers are clean and well-maintained, though they close daily for cleaning between 1-3pm.
The forest's trail system offers multiple marked routes suitable for day rides, with direct access from the campground area. Riders should be aware that ticks are abundant, particularly during summer months, requiring thorough checks of both horses and humans after trail rides. The trails wind through wooded areas and are generally well-maintained, though can become muddy after rain. Andrews Air Force Base sits nearby, creating occasional aircraft noise overhead. Cedarville's proximity to Washington DC (less than 60 minutes away) makes it a convenient destination for equestrians seeking quick access to trail riding opportunities, though the campground itself lacks specialized horse amenities like wash racks, stalls, or dedicated trailer parking areas common at true equestrian campgrounds.
