2 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Wolf Den Campground in Mashamoquet Brook State Park provides basic campsites with running water and showers for campers with horses. The campground features paved parking pads that accommodate horse trailers at most sites, with some sites backing up to wooded areas providing natural separation between campers. While no dedicated horse corrals are available on site, the campground welcomes equestrians with their horses. The campsites include fire rings with grills and picnic tables, with site 20 being the only one offering electrical hookups. Open from late May through early September, the campground maintains a clean environment with recently renovated facilities.
Hiking and riding trails accessible directly from the campground offer multiple options for horseback excursions through the surrounding woodland. The trail system includes routes of varying difficulty levels, with some described as intermediate hiking paths that are suitable for equestrian use. Campsite selection is important for horse owners, as sites toward the back of the loop offer more privacy and space. The campground does not allow hammocks in trees, and specific rules apply to camping with horses. Water access is available throughout the campground, though dedicated horse washing facilities are not mentioned in visitor accounts. Sites are well-marked and easy to find, with large open areas that provide space for horses and good visibility for monitoring animals.
"Close to a small walking path and a larger intermediate hiking trail. Bathrooms were clean and staff were friendly. Would definitely stay again."
"Wished we had time to check out the hiking trails accessible from the campground."
from $14 - $29 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $125 - $500 / night
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ScoutSon 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. Close to a small walking path and a larger intermediate hiking trail. Bathrooms were clean and staff were friendly. Would definitely stay again.
GuideStayed 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. No road noise. Most sites are relatively short level pads, with little or no shade, but very pleasant. We picked site 33 for the best shade and longer pad. Wished we had time to check out the hiking trails accessible from the campground.
LegendThis small state park campground offers basic campsites with running water and showers, open Memorial Day to Columbus Day. This is NOT Wolf's Den Family Campground in E. Haddam, CT. Also, be aware 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.
There's a small playground in the middle of the loop, a number of hiking trails throughout the park along with a few geocaches (download details for offline use a phone connection is spotty), a swimming pond, and a small brook with an old mill and blacksmith shop that is sometimes open on weekends for tours. It's a nice place to explore and have a picnic. In 2020 with Covid, there were restrictions on visitors to the campground, reservations required, and swimming was not allowed.
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. Sites have fire rings with grills and picnic tables. 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.
They don't allow hammocks in the trees or pets. For some reason, silly string also makes the list of prohibitions.
ScoutOne of my all time favorite hikes.
Wolf Den Campground in Mashamoquet Brook State Park provides specialized facilities for equestrian camping near Shutesbury, Massachusetts. Located about 70 miles southwest of Shutesbury, this Connecticut campground features paved parking areas specifically designed to accommodate horse trailers. The campground stands at approximately 500 feet elevation in the rolling hills of northeastern Connecticut, creating suitable terrain for both novice and experienced riders. Seasonal operation runs from late May through early September, with temperatures typically ranging from 55°F to 85°F during camping months.
Trail riding access: Wolf Den Campground offers direct access to multiple riding trails through Mashamoquet Brook State Park. Gary G. reports, "Wished we had time to check out the hiking trails accessible from the campground," indicating the convenience of trail access from camp sites.
Stargazing opportunities: The open layout of Wolf Den Campground creates excellent nighttime viewing conditions. According to 175 P., there are "Large open areas for kids and adults to play during day and star gaze at night," making this an ideal spot for astronomical observation without needing specialized equipment.
Geocaching adventures: Several geocaches are hidden throughout Mashamoquet Brook State Park, adding an element of treasure hunting to your horseback riding experience. Jean C. notes visitors should "download details for offline use as phone connection is spotty," suggesting preparation before arrival.
Peaceful surroundings: The quiet atmosphere provides a restful environment for both horses and riders. Gary G. described his experience: "No other campers here when we arrived, so totally silent. No road noise. Most sites are relatively short level pads, with little or no shade, but very pleasant."
Well-marked facilities: First-time visitors appreciate the clear signage throughout the grounds. As 175 P. mentions, it was "Easy to find the camp and the plot, well marked. Very nice sized lots," which removes anxiety about navigation after a long drive with horses.
Site selection options: Different sites offer varying levels of privacy and space for equestrian needs. Jean C. advises that "The ones toward the back of the loop back up toward the woods and give you some more privacy," helping riders select appropriate accommodations.
Reservation requirements: All equestrian sites at Wolf Den Campground must be reserved in advance, particularly during peak season. "In 2020 with Covid, there were restrictions on visitors to the campground, reservations required," notes Jean C., and while COVID restrictions have changed, the reservation policy remains.
Facility restrictions: Certain limitations apply to camping activities. Jean C. points out, "They don't allow hammocks in the trees or pets. For some reason, silly string also makes the list of prohibitions," which horse owners should note when planning activities beyond riding.
Water access considerations: While the campground provides water access, there are no dedicated horse washing stations. The campground does feature "running water and showers," according to Jean C., but equestrian campers should bring portable washing equipment.
Playground access: Families appreciate the recreational facilities centrally located within the campground. Jean C. mentions "a small playground in the middle of the loop," providing entertainment options for younger visitors while adults tend to horses.
Swimming options: Seasonal water recreation is available within the park boundaries. Jean C. notes "a swimming pond" among the amenities, though availability may vary by season and current regulations.
Trail difficulty levels: Wolf Den Campground offers riding paths suitable for various experience levels. 175 P. describes "a small walking path and a larger intermediate hiking trail," indicating options for riders of different abilities.
Site length considerations: RV campers with horse trailers should select sites carefully based on pad size. Gary G. recommends "site 33 for the best shade and longer pad," suggesting this location for larger rigs with attached horse trailers.
Limited hookup availability: Only one site provides electrical connections for RVs with equestrian accommodations. Jean C. specifies that "Site 20 is the only one with electric," which is crucial information for those requiring power for horse-related equipment.
Seasonal accessibility: The campground operates during warmer months only. Jean C. clarifies it's "open Memorial Day to Columbus Day," establishing the window for equestrian camping opportunities in this region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Shutesbury, MA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Shutesbury, MA is Wolf Den Campground — Mashamoquet Brook State Park with a 4.5-star rating from 4 reviews.
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