LeGrand Reynolds Horsemen's Camping Area provides primitive campsites designed specifically for equestrians traveling with horses through Rhode Island's expansive Arcadia Management Area. Located about 60 miles southwest of Bridgewater, Massachusetts, this specialized camping area offers basic accommodations with electric, water, and sewer hookups at tent sites. The natural setting provides direct trail access throughout the 14,000-acre forest management area, with sites featuring fire rings and picnic tables for overnight stays.
What to do
Trail riding adventures: The Arcadia Management Area features over 35 miles of multi-use trails winding through Rhode Island's largest recreational area. Horse owners camping at Normandy Farms Family Camping Resort appreciate the proximity to various riding opportunities, with one visitor noting, "They have dog walkers that will come to your site and take care of your precious pooch while you are away," which is helpful for equestrians planning longer trail rides.
Swimming at kettle ponds: Myles Standish State Forest offers several spring-fed ponds perfect for cooling off after riding or hiking. A camper remarked, "The pond water was very clear, seeing as they are fed from natural springs under the ponds," making these natural swimming spots a refreshing alternative to crowded beaches during summer months.
Biking and hiking: For those taking a break from horseback riding, the area offers extensive paved and unpaved trails. At Myles Standish State Forest, a visitor shared, "There are several miles of bile trails that were very enjoyable," with routes suitable for all skill levels traversing through diverse New England landscapes.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds near Bridgewater offer well-spaced sites with natural barriers. At Sweetwater Forest, campers enjoy secluded spots, with one visitor sharing, "We were on site B17 and it was perfect. Complete 360 privacy, well wooded, and just what was needed. Listen to the sounds of frogs at night was kinda awesome."
Equestrian facilities: Horse-friendly accommodations make Arcadia Management Area appealing for riders. The LeGrand Reynolds Horsemen's Camping Area caters specifically to equestrians with hookups that support extended stays while exploring the trail network.
Proximity to attractions: Many campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring regional highlights. One camper at Myles Standish State Forest called it a "Gateway to Cape Cod" noting it's "a great staging area for day trips to Plymouth and all its history as well as being an easy bike ride to the upper cape."
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Campground occupancy fluctuates dramatically between weekdays and weekends. A Myles Standish visitor observed, "The one thing you may notice is that if you stay on a Friday or Saturday night, the campground may be to capacity...But the Sunday, and Monday nights, the 7 closest spots to us were empty, it was like having the woods to ourselves."
Horse-specific requirements: When planning equestrian camping near Bridgewater, Massachusetts, bring appropriate containment systems as dedicated horse corrals aren't provided at most sites. Instead, prepare to set up temporary paddocks or high-lines for overnight stays.
Primitive facilities: Many horse camps offer basic amenities. At Ponkapoag Camp, a camper warns, "It is important to note: THERE IS NO ELECTRICITY OR RUNNING WATER. We brought all our water from home, and it worked well. Make sure you bring campsuds or other eco-friendly soap since the toilets are just outhouses without running water much of the year."
Tips for camping with families
Amenities for children: Some campgrounds offer extensive recreation options. At Charge Pond Campground, a visitor noted, "Swimming, fishing, camping, hiking, trails, boating and more await. Forest staff are so nice, extremely helpful, and take any issues seriously."
Off-peak timing: For quieter horseback riding experiences with children, avoid holiday weekends. One Myles Standish camper shared, "I was surprised that it was fairly quite and not busier on a holiday weekend. We felt most people respected quiet hours and there were even empty sites in our loop."
Nature education: The diverse ecosystems around Bridgewater provide learning opportunities. A Ponkapoag visitor recounted, "Came here while in college at Brandeis University with my field Biology class. We explored all over the bog looking for interesting species of plants and animals and found so many amazing things."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: For those combining RV and equestrian camping near Bridgewater, be aware that premium sites book quickly. At Normandy Farms Campground, an RVer noted, "There are plenty of sites to choose from the 'premium' full hook-up (50 amp) to basic with just water and electric and many others in between. Both back-in and pull thrus are available as are sites with shade and full sun."
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain at more natural campgrounds. One camper at Myles Standish warned, "Some sites are on slight inclines and have a lot of roots so it makes having more than one tent hard," which applies equally to positioning RVs and horse trailers.
Road conditions: Access roads at more primitive equestrian camping areas may present challenges. At Sweetwater Forest, a camper mentioned, "A little dusty because of the sand lot and roads," which can be particularly relevant when maneuvering larger rigs and horse trailers during dry conditions.
