Equestrian camping options near Riverdale Park, Maryland exist within a 30-mile radius but require careful planning. The area features mixed hardwood forests with rolling terrain that averages 200-300 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions between 50-75°F.
What to do
Trail riding connections: At Pohick Bay Regional Park, riders can access multiple trails through forested areas. "Eagle haven! Beautiful campground located near the National Harbor. Eagles everywhere," notes Kathie M., highlighting wildlife viewing opportunities while riding.
Disc golf between rides: When not in the saddle, try the 18-hole course at Pohick Bay. "I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," suggests Rachel L. This provides an excellent activity option during multi-day horse camping trips.
Seasonal water activities: During summer months, riders can cool off at the water attractions. "Pirate's Cove waterpark is definitely a highlight in summer. Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats," mentions Anne K. from Pohick Bay, providing options to balance riding with water recreation.
What campers like
Spacious, level sites: Bull Run Regional Park offers good spacing between campsites for those traveling with horses. "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," explains Roberta K., noting the privacy available.
Clean facilities: Bathroom quality matters for multi-day horse camping trips. At Bull Run, Yvonne B. states: "The best review I can give is of the bathrooms. They're worth staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls. Best camping showers I've ever had."
Nature programs: Cedarville State Forest offers nature activities when not riding. "Forested campground with fairly lengthy but level (and thus beginner friendly) hiking just a short distance away from Washington, DC," writes moonbeans, noting the educational opportunities available.
What you should know
Tick prevention essential: Horse campers must prepare for ticks at most area campgrounds. "Bring bug and tick spray - definitely need it! We hiked the brown trail and it was a nice walk," advises Nurse N. about Cedarville State Forest, highlighting a concern for both riders and horses.
Aircraft noise: Military installations near Andrews AFB Military FamCamp affect the riding experience. "Need military id and reservations to go," notes M.B., as military clearance requirements limit access for general equestrian campers.
Firewood logistics: At Cedarville, "The ranger delivers firewood to your site within about 10-15 min of calling, which was very convenient. Cost was $5 for 8 logs," according to Nurse N., which helps when returning from long trail rides.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Bull Run Regional Park offers structured activities beyond horse trails. "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon. There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," shares Bridget H.
Safety considerations: State parks provide secure environments for family horse camping. "Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post," mentions Elvin J. about Camp Meade RV Park, noting the added security of military installations.
Weather contingencies: Prepare for sudden weather changes when horse camping with children. "We tent camped there with 2 other families memorial day weekend. It rained the entire time but we still had a blast," reports Yvonne B. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: At Cedarville State Forest, site choice matters. "Site 6 was good but not for larger rigs. We have a pop up and had to navigate around a tree that would have been very difficult for larger rigs. Site 5 or 7 wouldn't have that problem," advises Nurse N.
Drainage issues: Some camping areas have poor drainage that affects horse trailer parking. At Bull Run, Stuart O. reports: "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."
Connectivity: Cell service varies throughout horse campgrounds. "We have AT&T and had two bars pretty consistently," notes Nurse N. about Cedarville State Forest, which helps when coordinating trail rides or checking weather forecasts.
