Equestrian-friendly camping options exist within 65 miles of Sharon, Massachusetts, providing dedicated facilities for trail riding enthusiasts and their horses. The region's forested landscape features numerous bridleways connecting public lands, conservation areas, and state forests. Massachusetts state park campgrounds typically operate from May through October, with some equestrian facilities requiring advance reservations, especially during peak riding seasons.
What to do
Trail riding at Pachaug State Forest: Located in eastern Connecticut, this forest offers multiple dedicated horse trails ranging from beginner to advanced riding levels. "Three horseback riding loops leave from the campground. There's also fishing and hiking available in the forest," notes Jean C. about Frog Hollow Horse Camp at Pachaug State Forest.
Swimming and kayaking: Explore local kettle ponds for water recreation during summer months. "We also enjoyed the various kettle ponds. We kayaked one morning and enjoyed watching the people catching good sized fish around us. The beach (at least at Charged Pond) had a nice sandy section and a bathhouse," reports Kim R. about her experience at Charge Pond Campground — Myles Standish State Forest.
Forest hiking: The Blue Hills Reservation provides extensive trail networks for day hikes from nearby campgrounds. "Hiking trails abound on the property. While none of the trails are steep, they all go through beautiful areas, with views of the pond, and interesting rock formations. Blue Hill is within hiking distance, and it is a favorite spot for seeing the sunrise," explains Rita M. about Ponkapoag Camp.
Biking adventures: Many state forests feature dedicated cycling paths connecting campsites to nearby attractions. "The bike trails through the part are great and we enjoyed them. Paved and mountain bike trails," shares Kim R. about Myles Standish State Forest.
What campers like
Proximity to Boston: Several campgrounds offer wilderness experiences surprisingly close to urban areas. "Feels like Vermont yet 20 minutes from Downtown Boston," writes stu L. about Ponkapoag Camp. "Ponky is a hidden jem! Minutes from Boston, feels Miles away."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained amenities enhance the camping experience at established campgrounds. "The bathrooms had two showers and three stalls, two sinks. There were at least three outlets in the women's room which was convenient for a quick cell phone charge," notes Kim R. about Myles Standish.
Water activities: Multiple ponds throughout the region provide swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. "We were in the Charged Pond area, in loop F... The beach (at least at Charged Pond) had a nice sandy section and a bathhouse," reports Kim R. from Normandy Farms Campground.
Well-designed campsites: Many campgrounds feature thoughtful layouts accommodating various camping styles. "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 Wolf Den Campground — Mashamoquet Brook State Park.
What you should know
Rustic accommodations: Some campgrounds have minimal amenities and require preparation. "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," advises Rita M. about Ponkapoag Camp.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "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 operates from "mid may-late sep."
Reservation requirements: Securing spots can require advance planning. "We 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. about Wolf Den Campground.
Alcohol regulations: Some state parks prohibit alcoholic beverages. "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," points out Randy R. about Myles Standish State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated activity areas: Choose campgrounds with recreational facilities for children. "Son and I stayed from Friday to Sunday. Easy to find the camp and the plot, well marked. Very nice sized lots. Large open areas for kids and adults to play during day and star gaze at night," shares "175 P." about Wolf Den Campground.
Consider weekday visits: For quieter experiences with fewer crowds, avoid peak weekend periods. "But the Sunday, and Monday nights, the 7 closest spots to us were empty, it was like having the woods to ourselves," advises kyle C. about Myles Standish State Forest.
Check pond swimming conditions: Water activities provide entertainment for kids. "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," notes stacy about Ponkapoag Camp.
Tips from RVers
Verify site dimensions: Many regional campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. "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. All utilities were well-placed and functioned properly," reports Nancy W. about Normandy Farms Campground.
Research utility availability: Confirm hookup options before booking. "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.
Consider traffic patterns: Some campgrounds experience varied noise levels. "There are many loops here. Some spots run closer to main road than others so you can hear the cars go by," advises Desiree M. about Myles Standish State Forest.
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