Frog Hollow Horse Camp at Pachaug State Forest offers primitive equestrian campsites with basic facilities, situated 52 miles from Auburn in Connecticut's largest state forest. Trails wind through over 24,000 acres of woodland, connecting to broader regional trail systems. The campground has no hookups and features composting toilets near the entrance, with water available for horses and riders. Sites are arranged in a loop pattern and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
What to do
Trail riding in Pachaug State Forest: Three horseback riding loops depart directly from Frog Hollow Horse Camp, giving equestrians immediate access to varied terrain. "There's space for your camping gear as well as a trailer and horseline," notes Jean C., who visited in late October when "about half the sites were occupied."
Fishing in local ponds: Throughout Pachaug State Forest, numerous streams and ponds offer fishing opportunities within riding distance of the campground. Several smaller water features are accessible via the trail system, perfect for anglers traveling with horses who want to combine riding with fishing.
Explore premium equestrian facilities: For riders seeking more amenities, LeGrand Reynolds Horsemen's Camping Area in nearby Exeter, Rhode Island offers electric, water and sewer hookups. Located approximately 47 miles from Auburn in Arcadia Management Area, this alternative provides upgraded camping with horse-friendly facilities.
What campers like
Rustic camping with basic necessities: The primitive setup at Frog Hollow appeals to horseback riders who prefer a simpler camping experience. With just composting toilets and water access, the campground maintains a traditional outdoor feel while providing the essentials.
Accessibility to extensive trails: Riders appreciate direct access to miles of interconnected trail systems. The layout allows horseback riders to start their journeys without trailering to different locations, maximizing time spent riding rather than traveling.
Proximity to alternative campgrounds: At Wolf Den Campground in nearby Mashamoquet Brook State Park, campers appreciate the well-maintained facilities. "Easy to find the camp and the plot, well marked. Very nice sized lots," notes reviewer 175 P., who stayed with their son. The campground is "close to a small walking path and a larger intermediate hiking trail."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Frog Hollow Horse Camp offers vault toilets and drinking water but lacks showers, electricity or other modern conveniences. For those needing more facilities, alternative horse campgrounds near Auburn like LeGrand Reynolds offer full hookups.
First-come, first-served policy: Unlike many campgrounds in the region, Frog Hollow doesn't accept reservations. During peak riding seasons (spring and fall), arriving early is recommended to secure a site.
Weather considerations: The Connecticut woodland environment can get quite wet in spring and during summer storms. At Ponkapoag Camp, a nearby rustic option, reviewer Kiye A. notes the area "showcasing a wetland climate that, while common, is an integral part of the Massachusetts ecosystem that many people don't even realize is within a stones throw."
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra water containers: With limited facilities at Frog Hollow, families should bring sufficient water for both humans and horses. Rita M., who camped at Ponkapoag Camp, suggests: "We brought all our water from home, and it worked well. Make sure you bring campsuds or other eco-friendly soap."
Bring alternative activities: While horse riding is the primary attraction, having backup activities for children during downtime is essential. The campground's woodland setting offers opportunities for nature exploration and wildlife observation when not riding.
Consider Wolf Den for non-equestrian family camping: Families without horses might prefer Mashamoquet Brook State Park, where "Large open areas for kids and adults to play during day and star gaze at night," according to reviewer 175 P., who also noted "Bathrooms were clean and staff were friendly."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations for rigs: Frog Hollow's sites accommodate horse trailers with living quarters, but large motorhomes with separate horse trailers may find the space challenging. Most sites can handle modest sized RVs with attached horse trailers.
Bring leveling equipment: The natural terrain at Frog Hollow may require leveling blocks for trailers and RVs. The uneven ground can make setup more challenging than at developed campgrounds.
Consider premium alternatives for longer stays: RVers seeking more amenities might prefer Normandy Farms Campground in Foxborough, MA. Though not a horse camp, this premium facility offers full hookups and extensive amenities. "Campsites are big and well spaced. Bathrooms are best of any campground," notes Matt T.
