Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area stands as one of several equestrian campgrounds near Bloomsbury, New Jersey, situated in the Pocono Mountains region at elevations ranging from 1,800 to 2,200 feet. The higher elevation keeps summer temperatures cooler than surrounding lowland areas, with daytime highs typically 5-8 degrees lower than in Bloomsbury. Most horse-friendly campgrounds in this region operate from April through October when trail conditions are optimal for riding.
What to do
Kayaking and paddling on multiple lakes: Spruce Run Recreation Area offers lake activities within 30 minutes of Bloomsbury. "You can bring a camper, tent, or use one of the cabins. Many sites have a lovely water view of the reservoir. Several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area," notes Jocelyn G.
Horseback riding on designated trails: Stokes State Forest provides riding opportunities approximately 50 miles from Bloomsbury. "Sussex county is beautiful. Stokes is such a peaceful campground! We stay in the cabins. It's great to have the small kitchen when camping with the family," shares Amy B.
Stargazing from open fields: At Camp Starry Night at Gulyan Farms, the night skies provide excellent viewing conditions. "Very clean and quite. Bath stalls and showers are basic but clean. Great spot for stargazing. Owners are very nice," reports Scott A.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Campers appreciate lake access at Pickerel Point Campground. "We had site 100 and amazing views of the water from our camper. The trails were beautiful, recommend little falls trail. The bathrooms were clean with nice hot showers," says Kelly F.
Wooded campsites with shade: At Mountainview Campground, the natural setting provides relief from summer heat. "We've tent camped here three or four times. It's a quiet wooded campground (not all spots, but most). Easy to get to, and friendly family ownership," explains Robert J.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to observe local fauna. "After a nice relaxing night out in the woods we packed up early in the morning and headed out to the Cracker Barrel in Clinton to get a hot breakfast before heading home. Every moment was well worth it and the trip was just so rejuvenating despite how short it was," notes a camper at Mountainview Campground.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The mountain location means temperature fluctuations. "It went down to 40 degrees that night so we had to make due with extra layers and bundle up but we made it through the night," a camper shares about Camp Starry Night.
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian campgrounds require advance booking. "I reserved two nights, but the first night we were not going to be able to arrive until after 9. After talking to them, they would not allow us to come late, but did refund the first night," mentions Kyhlea D. about Mountainview Campground.
Campground rules and regulations: Beechwood Area maintains specific site policies. "Only select sites allow dogs. Park staff were super friendly and helpful. The park and surrounding forest have lots of hiking and multiple lakes," reports Tiffany K.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and swimming areas: Multiple locations offer kid-friendly amenities. "The campground was very quiet and peaceful. The owners were very friendly. The spot was spacious and comfortable. The bathrooms were clean. Close by to a couple of nice state parks," says Jami from Mountainview Campground.
Educational programs: Some parks organize nature activities. "We loved our stay at this park, and plan to return. We tented in loop D…the only bad part was that it was kind of hard to find a level and rock-free spot large enough for our tent, but we managed," shares Katie M. about French Creek State Park.
Site selection for families: Look for sites with adequate space. "It was a solid choice: private but close to the toilet and water. Some sites located around the opposite side of the ring back up to a babbling brook. The rushing water will soothe you to sleep," notes a camper at Stokes State Forest.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup options: Know the available power connections. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers," shares Jen R. about French Creek State Park.
Space and accessibility considerations: Many parks have site limitations. "If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs," advises Douglas P. regarding Spruce Run Recreation Area.
Seasonal availability: Year-round access varies. "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers," explains Mara S. about Pickerel Point Campground.
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