Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area sits at approximately 350 feet above sea level in the Piedmont region, with terrain characterized by rolling hills and mixed woodlands. Located near the Maryland-Pennsylvania border, this management area offers extensive equestrian facilities within a 5,600-acre property. Trail conditions remain suitable for riding from April through November, with July and August averaging temperatures in the mid-80s.
What to do
Trail riding beyond Fair Hill: Fair Hill connects to a larger network of regional trails, allowing for extended rides. According to one rider at Brendan Byrne State Forest: "Lots of good hiking trails, most the sites have pretty decent privacy from the other ones."
Fishing opportunities: Several waterways provide fishing spots near camping areas. A visitor at Turkey Swamp Park notes: "Turkey Swamp is a great spot, a lot of different things to do. Fishing, Tent Camp, Van Camping, Open Field, BBQ, Kayaking, Canoeing. The list goes on."
Archery practice: Some management areas maintain archery facilities for visitors. As one camper states about Turkey Swamp Park: "Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from."
What campers like
Well-maintained trails: The trail system receives regular maintenance with clear markings. A camper at Lums Pond State Park Campground shared: "Beautiful park setting with fantastic site— spacious, level, good-working hookups, and paved. Friendly and helpful staff. Great state park with lots to do (kayaking, biking, and more)."
Natural environment: The forested setting provides shade and wildlife viewing. At Hibernia County Park, a reviewer noted: "We loved the lake campground. My kids are age 3-12. There's running water available, porta potties are very clean and don't smell and are lit with a street lamp."
Multi-use facilities: Areas accommodate various outdoor activities beyond horseback riding. A visitor to Blackbird State Forest Campground commented: "This is a good free state forest with maybe 10 (or less) designated tent-camping sites, and designated areas for deer hunting. Each campsite features a picnic table or two, and a fire pit, plus one bundle of firewood."
What you should know
Weather impacts: Trail conditions vary seasonally with potential muddy areas. One camper at Allaire State Park mentioned: "Tent camped July 1st. Clean bathrooms. Sites are a little too close together. Noisy with highway traffic. Well maintained though. Ticks galore."
Reservation requirements: Peak season requires advance booking for equestrian sites. A camper noted: "Book early because it fills up fast!"
Wildlife awareness: The area hosts diverse wildlife requiring appropriate precautions. One visitor warned: "Spacious and private, 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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple play areas available near camping sites. A visitor to Turkey Swamp Park shared: "Turkey Swamp State Park Campground - Great campground! Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest."
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences for children. One camper said: "We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. We were worried about bugs, but we didn't even use mosquito repellent and didn't get a single bite! The campground was super clean too. It was perfect!"
Safety considerations: Family-friendly facilities include lit pathways and regular ranger patrols. A camper noted: "Otherwise, the stay was pleasant. The bathrooms were clean and the staff was friendly. They do patrol the sites with a police presence in the evening."
Tips from RVers
Water and electric access: Hookup locations may require extended hoses or cords. A camper advised: "You need to come with a full water tank. There is one spigot at the bathroom."
Size limitations: Some equestrian sites accommodate larger rigs while others have restrictions. One RVer noted: "Some engineering genious put the bath houses furthest from the people that need them most. Tent campers...keep your shoes handy, its a hike. Meanwhile Mr and Mrs 12 slideout supernova with 5 bathrooms and a washer/dryer get the closest spot to a quick potty/shower break."
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds provide on-site dump facilities. A review mentioned: "The only thing about this site specifically is the trail was close by so you'd occasionally see people walking by but not enough that it didn't still feel secluded. Nice hikes in the area, great weekend!"
