Pachaug State Forest offers equestrian camping options approximately 45 minutes from South Uxbridge, Massachusetts. Located in eastern Connecticut, this forested area spans over 27,000 acres with varied terrain suitable for horseback riding. Elevation changes are minimal throughout the trails, ranging from 300-500 feet above sea level, making the system accessible for most rider experience levels.
What to do
Trail rides with water features: Three dedicated horseback riding loops connect directly to Frog Hollow Horse Camp at Pachaug State Forest, creating immediate trail access. According to Jean C., "There's fishing and hiking available in the forest" beyond the dedicated equestrian trails.
Swimming and fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds near South Uxbridge offer water recreation. At Ponkapoag Camp, "The pond itself is a wonderful place for kayaking and canoeing. There are several rocky boulders poking out of the water that make fun spots to discover," writes Rita M. Gordon C. adds, "Water was nice and fish were biting."
Hiking excursions: The region features extensive hiking networks. Kiye A. notes about Ponkapoag Camp, "lots of good berry picking and trails, not far from the blue hills." Trail difficulty varies from beginner to intermediate, with most routes well-marked.
What campers like
Primitive camping with basic amenities: Horse campers appreciate the functionality of the equestrian campgrounds. Jean C. describes Frog Hollow: "Campsites are located around a loop with a couple of composting toilets near the entrance. Water is available. There's space your your camping gear as well as a trailer and horseline."
Proximity to metropolitan areas: Many camping areas offer wilderness experiences surprisingly close to urban centers. About Ponkapoag Camp, Stu L. says it "feels like Vermont yet 20 minutes from Downtown Boston," adding it "feels Miles away. Love the cabins!" This accessibility makes weekend trips practical.
Seasonal flexibility: Some facilities operate year-round. Stacy mentions that at Mashamoquet Brook State Park, "This small state park campground offers basic campsites with running water and showers, open Memorial Day to Columbus Day." Gary G. notes, "The park was completely cleaned up from any damage or debris, all in great shape."
What you should know
Campsite availability patterns: Frog Hollow operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with Jean C. observing, "About half the sites were occupied in late October." This suggests fall can be an ideal time to visit with reduced crowds.
Utility limitations: Some campgrounds have minimal services. Rita M. cautions about Ponkapoag Camp: "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."
Site configurations: At Wolf Den Campground, Jean C. explains, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Reserve alternative accommodations: For families wanting more comfort than tent camping, consider cabins. Stacy says about Ponkapoag Camp, "The kids can hang out in the clubhouse if it's raining or swim in the pond if it's hot." These options provide weather alternatives.
Check for playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. Jean C. notes about Mashamoquet Brook State Park, "There's a small playground in the middle of the loop, a number of hiking trails throughout the park along with a few geocaches."
Consider seasonal activities: At Normandy Farms Campground, Liz W. reports, "We stayed here for a few nights when they celebrated Halloween 🎃. It is super easy to get around. They had tons of festive activities."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: For equestrians requiring electricity, LeGrand Reynolds Horsemen's Camping Area in Rhode Island's Arcadia Management Area offers electric hookups with both fifty-amp and thirty-amp service, plus water connections, providing more infrastructure than Frog Hollow.
Site spacing considerations: Gary G. observed at Mashamoquet Brook State Park, "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."
Premium site options: At Normandy Farms, Douglas L. calls it an "Excellent family campground," while Matt T. notes "Campsites are big and well spaced. Bathrooms are best of any campground."