Brendan Byrne State Forest offers equestrian camping near Estell Manor, New Jersey with sites designed specifically for visitors traveling with horses. The forest sits within the distinctive Pine Barrens ecosystem, characterized by sandy soil, scrub pine forests, and wetland bogs. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing while summer months regularly reach into the 90s with high humidity, requiring proper planning for both rider and horse comfort.
What to do
Trail exploration on horseback: The forest contains several marked horse trails ranging from 3-10 miles in length, with varying difficulty levels. Riders at Brendan Byrne State Forest appreciate the extensive trail system. "There are probably hundreds of miles of trails through the woods and bogs to explore. Could spend a whole vacation just with these trails," notes Benjamin K.
Fall foliage viewing: October through early November provides optimal conditions for viewing seasonal color changes. "Quite site with pretty foliage," reports Esther L., who visited during autumn months when crowds tend to be smaller.
Wildlife observation: The Pine Barrens ecosystem supports numerous rare plant and animal species. Ticks remain active through much of the year. "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks," warns Megan S.
What campers like
Remote location: The campground's distance from populated areas creates a genuine wilderness experience. "It's far away from traffic noise. You can't hear any cars or any other noise from civilization at all. It's at least 10 miles away from anything more than a single house in the woods, 5 miles away from the main road," explains Benjamin K.
Site privacy: Campsite layout provides adequate separation between neighboring sites in certain areas. Lindsay D. notes that "sites are spaced out enough to offer privacy. Good trees for hammocking! Plenty of room for a few tents at each site."
Clean facilities: Blackbird State Forest Campground offers a different experience but similar appeal. "Only 8 sites in the campground, very spaced apart. Each site has lots of room, very much enjoyed our stay and will return! No running water- only port a potties but they were clean," writes Sarah M.
What you should know
Campsite regulations: Rules regarding tent setup and vehicle combinations can be strict. "If using an RV in a tent site you are not allowed to add another tent to the site. There is a two tent limit per site despite the site allowing up to 6 people," Jesse G. explains after encountering issues at Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Campfire restrictions: Some campgrounds limit fire usage to specific hours. "Only weird rule I saw was that fires can only go from 6pm till 7am which was odd but wasn't a deal breaker," reports Dorian P.
Water availability: Water access points vary throughout campgrounds. "The closest water spigot wasn't working. Not a big problem as there are plenty of others," notes Megan S., highlighting the importance of checking multiple spigots.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Corner sites typically provide more privacy for family groups. "The campsites are a little bit close to each and didn't offer much privacy but they were right in top of each other," observes Dorian P., suggesting careful site selection for families needing space.
Bathroom proximity: At Blackbird State Forest, "There are multiple port a potties here but some sites are a bit far from them," notes a reviewer named Blind, important information for families with young children.
Trail accessibility: Multiple hiking options accommodate various skill levels. "Lot of trails nearby, though some of the trails are shared with motorized vehicles/bicyclists," warns Vinayak Vinod C., suggesting families verify trail uses before embarking with children.
Tips from RVers
Road access considerations: Access roads to horse camping areas may have tight turns or low branches. "You have to drive a good amount of distance to get into the campground," notes Dorian P., who appreciated this aspect but reminds RVers to plan accordingly.
Site amenities: RV sites include basic facilities but lack hookups. "Very Decent Camp in the Pine Barrens, Lots of potable water hydrants around the campground so not far of a walk to fill any water needs you may have," explains Dan M., providing useful context for RVers planning water usage.
Supply runs: Despite remote location, limited supplies remain accessible. "There is a wawa down the street if you forgot anything for your trip," adds Dorian P., referencing the convenience store approximately 7 miles from the campground entrance.
