Pachaug State Forest's Frog Hollow Horse Camp serves as a dedicated equestrian camping area designed specifically for trail riders exploring Connecticut's largest state forest. This primitive campground sits approximately 43 miles from Brookfield, Massachusetts and provides direct access to three horseback riding loops that connect to the broader trail system. The central campground layout accommodates both tent and self-contained RV camping without electrical hookups.
What to do
Trail riding exploration: Pachaug State Forest offers extensive horseback riding opportunities beyond the three loops that connect directly to Frog Hollow. "Three horseback riding loops leave from the campground. There's also fishing and hiking available in the forest," notes Jean C., highlighting the diverse recreation options accessible from camp.
Visit Wolf Den at Mashamoquet Brook: Located about 30 minutes from Brookfield, this state park features notable hiking trails and historical sites. "One of my all time favorite hikes," shares Mike C. The park includes a swimming pond and historical structures like "an old mill and blacksmith shop that is sometimes open on weekends for tours," according to Jean C.
Overnight camping adventures: Wolf Den Campground provides well-maintained sites with designated areas for various activities. A visitor notes, "Large open areas for kids and adults to play during day and star gaze at night. Close to a small walking path and a larger intermediate hiking trail."
What campers like
Quiet weekday camping: Mashamoquet Brook State Park offers peaceful midweek stays with minimal crowds. "Stayed here on a Tuesday night right after hurricane Henri. The park was completely cleaned up from any damage or debris, all in great shape. No other campers here when we arrived, so totally silent," reports Gary G.
Spacious campsites: Wolf Den Campground features well-designed camping spaces. One camper mentioned, "Very nice sized lots," while another described, "The parking pads are paved and a few have overhanging branches, but the trees provide separation and some shade on largely open sites that tend to open up toward the back with open areas for pitching tents."
Basic amenities: Sites at Mashamoquet Brook include essential camping facilities. "This small state park campground offers basic campsites with running water and showers, open Memorial Day to Columbus Day," explains a reviewer, adding "Sites have fire rings with grills and picnic tables."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Wolf Den requires advance booking while Frog Hollow operates on a first-come, first-served basis. When visiting Mashamoquet Brook, be aware that "there are 2 campgrounds at this State Park; the other one, Mashamoquet Brook, does not offer running water/showers, so if you want these amenities, be sure to select a campsite 1-35."
Water availability: While Frog Hollow provides drinking water access for horses and humans, facilities remain basic. Other campgrounds like Wolf Den offer running water during their operational season from "Memorial Day to Columbus Day."
Campsite selection tips: At Wolf Den, "Site 20 is the only one with electric. The ones toward the back of the loop back up toward the woods and give you some more privacy." Restrictions apply at various horse campgrounds near Brookfield, Massachusetts, including "They don't allow hammocks in the trees or pets."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Wolf Den Campground includes dedicated play areas for children. "There's a small playground in the middle of the loop," mentions a reviewer, making it suitable for families with younger children needing recreational options.
Open space activities: The campground layout provides room for various family activities. As one camper describes, "Large open areas for kids and adults to play during day and star gaze at night," offering natural entertainment options without leaving camp.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness matters for family camping trips. A family who stayed at Wolf Den reported, "Bathrooms were clean and staff were friendly. Would definitely stay again," indicating the maintenance standards meet family needs.
Tips from RVers
Site length limitations: When selecting an equestrian campground with an RV or trailer, consider space constraints. At Mashamoquet Brook, "Most sites are relatively short level pads," but some offer more room, as one RVer recommended, "We picked site 33 for the best shade and longer pad."
Self-contained camping: Equestrian campgrounds near Brookfield typically offer limited hookups. Frog Hollow Horse Camp accommodates trailers and camping setups but lacks electrical connections, making it best suited for self-sufficient camping arrangements.
Seasonal accessibility: RVers should note operating seasons when planning visits. Wolf Den Campground at Mashamoquet Brook State Park operates seasonally from "May 26 to September 4," requiring advance planning for equestrian camping trips with RVs or trailers.
