Equestrian camping near Fall River, Massachusetts offers access to forested trails and dedicated facilities within driving distance of the city. The region features a mix of state forests and management areas that maintain horse-friendly campsites across southeastern Massachusetts and nearby Rhode Island and Connecticut. Seasonal availability varies, with most equestrian camping options open from spring through fall when trail conditions are optimal.
What to do
Trail riding through state forests: Pachaug State Forest in Connecticut features three dedicated horseback riding loops directly accessible from Frog Hollow Horse Camp. "It's hard to find much information about this equestrian, first come, first serve campground in Connecticut's Pachaug State Forest," notes Jean C., who adds that "campsites are located around a loop with a couple of composting toilets near the entrance."
Swimming in kettle ponds: Myles Standish State Forest offers clear spring-fed ponds for cooling off after trail rides. "The pond water was very clear, seeing as they are fed from natural springs under the ponds," explains Kyle C. about Charge Pond Campground, adding "the dept. of conservation and recreation drives around several times a day in case you have any issues."
Road cycling routes: Explore the coastal roads around southeastern Massachusetts using campgrounds as a base. "Great camping spot to road ride from. Nice park. Good access to surrounding New England towns," reports Mike M. about Myles Standish State Forest, located about 25 miles from Fall River.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campgrounds in the region offer natural separation between campsites. "Sites are nice and level and large. Vegetation between sites for privacy," writes Amie C. about her stay at Charge Pond Campground.
Family-friendly amenities: The region's campgrounds often include recreational options beyond equestrian activities. "The kids can hang out in the clubhouse if it's raining or swim in the pond if it's hot. Lots of hiking trails," reports Stacy about Ponkapoag Camp, which offers rustic cabin accommodations about 45 minutes from Fall River.
Varied terrain for all riding levels: State forests in the area maintain trail systems suited for different riding abilities. "We stayed in loop b south, which is really not a loop but a dead end. Very quiet, and we were the only people in the loop for a couple of days," notes Amie C. about the spaciousness at Myles Standish, where riders can access multiple trail options.
What you should know
Rustic facilities: Many equestrian campgrounds offer limited amenities. "It is rustic camping, no water or electricity and the bathroom is an outhouse and no showers," explains Stacy about Ponkapoag Camp, though she adds, "The people are friendly and we have always had a good time."
Weekend crowds vs. weekday solitude: Consider timing your horse camping trip accordingly. "If you stay on a Friday or Saturday night, the campground may be to capacity," warns Kyle C. about Myles Standish State Forest, but notes, "the Sunday, and Monday nights, the 7 closest spots to us were empty, it was like having the woods to ourselves."
State-specific regulations: Be aware that camping rules vary by state. "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," advises Randy R. about Wolf Den Campground at Mashamoquet Brook State Park, which is about 50 miles from Fall River.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds include dedicated play areas for children. "There's a small playground in the middle of the loop, a number of hiking trails throughout the park along with a few geocaches," mentions Jean C. about Wolf Den Campground, making it suitable for families with both horses and children.
Educational opportunities: Look for campgrounds near historical attractions. "Son and I stayed from Friday to Sunday. Easy to find the camp and the plot, well marked... Close to a small walking path and a larger intermediate hiking trail," shares 175 P. about their experience at Wolf Den Campground.
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds in the region host special events during holidays. "We stayed here for a few nights when they celebrated Halloween 🎃. It is super easy to get around. They had tons of festive activities," explains Liz W. about Normandy Farms Campground, which is located about 20 miles from Fall River and offers premium accommodations when not camping with horses.
Tips from RVers
Living quarters trailers: Horse owners with combination trailers will find hookups at select campgrounds. "We chose a paved full hook-up pull thru with paved patio (Site E1). Our site was easy to navigate in and out of and was definitely big rig-friendly with ample space for our motorhome and tow car," explains Nancy W. about Normandy Farms Campground, which offers amenities that can accommodate larger rigs.
Dump station access: Plan for waste management needs when camping with horses. "The campground doesn't have hook ups, but there is a dump station with water and water available around the loops," notes Kim R. about Myles Standish State Forest, which provides essential services for RVers bringing horses.
Site selection for trailers: Choose campgrounds with appropriate spacing for horse trailers. "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," explains Jean C. about the layout at The Preserve Club and Residences, which Chris M. describes as "New England's most amenity rich properties."
