Arcadia Management Area provides equestrian-friendly camping near Lakeville, Massachusetts, with access to over 14,000 acres of forests and trails. Located 50 miles southwest of Lakeville, this Rhode Island destination features dedicated horse camping facilities with electric hookups and water access. Fall temperatures in the region typically range from 45°F to 65°F, while summer highs reach the mid-80s with moderate humidity.
What to do
Trail riding networks: Myles Standish State Forest offers extensive riding trails through pine forests and past cranberry bogs. "Great camping spot to road ride from. Nice park. Good access to surrounding new England towns," notes Mike M. about the convenient riding options.
Swimming in kettle ponds: Ponkapoag Camp features a scenic pond perfect for cooling off after a day of riding. "The pond water was very clear, seeing as they are fed from natural springs under the ponds," explains Kyle C., highlighting the pristine water quality found throughout the area.
Biking opportunities: The Cape Cod area offers excellent cycling paths within a short drive. At Sweetwater Forest, "Close drive to a beautiful beach and other area beach activities," according to Christina M. The nearby bike trail in Brewster provides miles of paved riding.
Fishing excursions: Many campgrounds offer pond fishing opportunities. "Water was nice and fish were biting," reports Gordon C. about Ponkapoag Camp. Local ponds are stocked with bass and panfish for casual anglers.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Campers frequently praise the seclusion of sites near Lakeville. "We were on site B17 and it was perfect. Complete 360 privacy, well wooded, and just what was needed," says Christina M. about Sweetwater Forest.
Quiet camping environment: The area offers peaceful alternatives to busier destinations. "This was the quietest campground during 'quiet hours' that I've ever visited," notes Grace M. about Sweetwater Forest. "Walking my dog late at night or early in the morning was absolutely silent."
Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathhouses. "The comfort stations were clean and the showers have hot water and there's an outdoor sink & counter to wash dishes," explains Kelly R. about her stay at Sweetwater Forest.
Natural surroundings: Ponkapoag Camp offers a rustic experience close to Boston. "Feels like Vermont yet 20 minutes from Downtown Boston," says Stu L., highlighting the surprising wilderness feel despite proximity to urban areas.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most horse campgrounds near Lakeville require advance booking. At Normandy Farms Campground, "When you enter Normandy Farms it is more like checking into a hotel than campground complete with a concierge and express check-in," explains Nancy W.
Facility limitations: Some campgrounds have minimal amenities. "It is rustic camping, no water or electricity and the bathroom is an outhouse and no showers," notes Stacy about Ponkapoag Camp, important information for those expecting full facilities.
Alcohol regulations: Massachusetts state parks have specific rules. "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," warns Randy R. about Myles Standish State Forest.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate seasonally. "We stayed in the Charged Pond area in loop F. The campground doesn't have hook ups, but there is a dump station with water and water available around the loops," explains Kim R., noting the limited facilities available.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: Normandy Farms Campground offers extensive children's activities. "We had tons of festive activities. They have an indoor and an outdoor pool. The restrooms are clean," explains Liz W., who visited during their Halloween celebration.
Kid-friendly water activities: Look for campgrounds with pond access. "The kids can hang out in the clubhouse if it's raining or swim in the pond if it's hot," shares Stacy about family amenities at Ponkapoag Camp.
Space between sites: Choose campgrounds that offer privacy for families. "Quiet campground with pretty spacious sites. We had a nice pull through with a view of the pond," reports Alyssa R. about her experience at Sweetwater Forest.
Dog-friendly options: Many families travel with pets. "I camp with my dog and sometimes I want to explore places that he can't go. Sweetwater Forest has a small doggy day care where I can safely leave him and not worry," notes Kelly R.
Tips from RVers
Premium sites: For comfort and convenience, select upgraded sites. "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," advises Nancy W. about Normandy Farms Campground.
Leveling considerations: Be prepared for uneven terrain. "Some sites are on slight inclines and have a lot of roots so it makes having more than one tent hard," warns Desiree M. about Myles Standish State Forest, a consideration for RVers seeking level parking.
Full hookup availability: Secure reservations early for premium services. "The one thing you may notice is that if you stay on a Friday or Saturday night, the campground may be to capacity, like it was when we stayed," notes Kyle C. about weekend crowding at popular campgrounds.
