Artillery Ridge Campground offers specialized facilities for horse enthusiasts visiting the Gettysburg area. Sites accommodate horse trailers with ample room for navigating gravel roads, though advance booking is recommended for equestrians during peak times. The campground provides direct access to Gettysburg National Military Park riding areas, making it a popular destination for equestrian camping near Union Bridge, Maryland, approximately 30 miles southeast.
What to do
Battlefield exploration on horseback: Artillery Ridge Campground connects directly to Gettysburg's historic sites. "My husband caught a fish first day in the pond behind our site. The staff was super friendly and welcoming. The national park is mostly dog friendly," notes Justine I., highlighting multiple recreation options beyond riding.
Historical immersion: The area's rich Civil War history provides educational opportunities. At Gettysburg Campground, you're minutes from landmarks. "It's nice and out of the way of the busy parts of town. Not to mention it's a few minute drive to historic Gettysburg," says Brandon W., emphasizing the convenient location.
Fishing and water activities: Many campgrounds feature ponds or creeks. "Great spot. Nice creek with ducks. Close to battlefield," reports Jenny P. about Gettysburg Campground, where water features add recreational options for non-riders.
What campers like
Proximity to historical sites: Most visitors appreciate being close to Gettysburg's attractions. Camp Winery offers a different setting with vineyard views. "Very beautiful spot, did some tent camping. Close to many cool things in the area too," shares Sammii D.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and common areas. "Site and bathrooms clean. Activities provided free each day. Food trucks in park. Close to museum and battleground sites," notes Paula M. at Artillery Ridge.
Natural settings: Michaux State Forest provides more rustic options for those seeking seclusion. "It's 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," describes Bridget D.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: For horse-friendly sites, book well ahead. "We were in spots 86,85,89 for a month long stay... which they do during the winter," mentions Lakota M. about Artillery Ridge's extended stay options.
Site spacing and privacy: Teaberry Parking Area offers reasonable spacing between sites. "It was a very large gravel lot with 5 sites along one side, pretty well spaced. The campsites were pretty, parking on the edge of the sites in the parking lot felt a lot like just being in a parking lot with a view of trees on one side," explains J A.
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds undergo improvements or face seasonal challenges. "The only issue is there is a lot of construction at the moment. No pool, no mini golf, and a lot of sites are closed. The good news is they expect all work done by the summer and it looks like it's going to be really nice," shared Sean M. about Artillery Ridge's facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with scheduled events. "Fun filled weekend of activities for the whole family. Close to historic Gettysburg battleground. Fantastic horse rescue on the campground," says Zack about Artillery Ridge.
Educational opportunities: Camp Meade RV Park offers unique military history. "Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post. I forgot all about revielle," mentions Elvin J., referencing the military bugle call.
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas. "We were in spots 86,85,89 for a month long stay... The only complaint we had was people walking through our sites due us being close to the playground and the noise level on the playground," notes Lakota M., suggesting families consider site location relative to amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse owners: Choose sites that allow monitoring of horses. "Pool, mini golf and live music were great. Also amazing location to the battlefield and all the tourist attractions," mentions Brett D. about Artillery Ridge's amenities beyond equestrian facilities.
Utility connections: Check hookup availability at equestrian sites. "All of the utilities worked just fine. Sites are a bit close to each other, not a lot of foliage between sites," reports Marcandpatti B. about Gettysburg Campground, noting the typical spacing of RV areas.
Navigation challenges: Some forest roads require careful driving. "Appalachian mountain range, not bad with 4wheel drive. Stayed first at camp, moved to atv parking. Very remote and atvs in and out," cautions Carolyn K. about Michaux State Forest's access roads, important for those hauling horse trailers.