Myles Standish State Forest offers equestrian camping opportunities beyond its standard camping facilities. The forest maintains 35 miles of designated bridle paths winding through pine barrens and past cranberry bogs, with relatively flat terrain making them accessible for riders of various experience levels. Trail routes feature sandy soil conditions typical of southeastern Massachusetts, requiring horses to navigate occasional wet areas during spring months.
What to do
Trail riding access: At Myles Standish State Forest, riders can explore the extensive trail system right from their campsites. "Great camping spot to road ride from. Nice park. Good access to surrounding new England towns," notes Mike M.
Fishing at kettle ponds: Several kettle ponds throughout the forest provide fishing opportunities. "We kayaked one morning and enjoyed watching the people catching good sized fish around us," reports Kim R., who camped at Myles Standish.
Winter camping options: For off-season equestrian adventures, Ponkapoag Camp offers year-round facilities. "Spending Friday & Saturday in one of the cabins (w/woodstove) is deal for a winter weekend adventure!" writes stu L.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The campground layout at Myles Standish provides good separation between campsites. "Very quiet, and we were the only people in the loop for a couple of days. Sites are nice and level and large. Vegetation between sites for privacy," explains Amie C.
Multiple camping loops: The various camping areas offer different experiences. "The campgrounds themselves are really nice, but considering there are about 400 spots, you may find that some area's are more to your liking when it comes to things like more sun or more shade," says kyle C. from Sweetwater Forest.
Affordable rates: State park camping remains cost-effective for equestrian campers. "Fees are reasonable and in line with other state parks, the bathhouses are sufficient though not all have showers, a shower house is provided in those parts of the campground," mentions Joe B.
What you should know
Alcohol restrictions: Massachusetts state parks prohibit alcohol consumption. "When you are sitting by the campfire, sometimes, chilling with a beer or another adult beverage is nice. Not in Massachusetts State Parks. No alcohol allowed," cautions Randy R. who camped at Myles Standish.
Limited water access: Plan for minimal water sources throughout camping areas. "The sites are large and shady but don't have water or electric. The bath houses are clean and accessible," explains Stephanie B.
Cell service issues: Normandy Farms Campground offers stronger connectivity than state parks. "Cell coverage is iffy in a lot of spots," warns Desiree M. about Myles Standish, while Normandy Farms provides reliable service for those needing to coordinate horse transport.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: Horse camping families appreciate the recreational options. "There is a really long list of amenities for this campground...four pools (include an indoor heated one), fitness room, creative arts center, camp store," explains Nancy W. at Normandy Farms, making it suitable for families with both riders and non-riders.
Quieter weekdays: For equestrian families seeking more tranquil experiences, timing matters. "The Sunday, and Monday nights, the 7 closest spots to us were empty, it was like having the woods to ourselves," shares kyle C.
Educational opportunities: Frog Hollow Horse Camp offers learning experiences. "Three horseback riding loops leave from the campground. There's also fishing and hiking available in the forest," notes Jean C., making it suitable for families looking to combine equestrian camping with nature education.
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: RVers with horse trailers need to plan for waste disposal. "The campground doesn't have hook ups, but there is a dump station with water and water available around the loops," shares Kim R. about Myles Standish.
Premium site options: For those seeking more amenities, consider upgraded sites. "Both back-in and pull thrus are available as are sites with shade and full sun. Premium sites have paved patios while other sites are gravel," explains Nancy W. about sites at Normandy Farms.
Site leveling: Come prepared for natural terrain challenges. "Some sites are on slight inclines and have a lot of roots so it makes having more than one tent hard," advises Desiree M. This applies equally to horse trailers and RVs at equestrian camping areas near Dartmouth.
Traveler
