Equestrian camping in northeastern Pennsylvania provides trail access not widely available elsewhere near Hardyston, New Jersey. The region sits within the Pocono Mountains with elevations averaging 1,800 feet, creating cooler summer camping temperatures than lower-elevation areas. Winter conditions can be harsh with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing from December through March, affecting water availability at several campgrounds.
What to do
Trail riding at Hemlock Hill: Riders can access an extensive network of forest trails directly from the Lower Lake Campground Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area in Promised Land State Park. One visitor notes, "All of our experiences have been good. Clean bathrooms are essential and even when the large campground is full the bathrooms have been clean."
Hiking with elevation views: The region offers substantial hiking options with varied terrain. At Stokes State Forest, campers can experience multiple trail types. One visitor recommends, "Took a few pictures of the cabins in Shotwell. I wouldn't personally rent one, but I guess if your winter camping it has a little fireplace and will keep you dry and somewhat warm." Another hiker mentions, "We went in November when there was a light rain that turned into a thunderstorm with hail and sleet! It was certainly an adventure."
Water activities between rides: Several equestrian-friendly campgrounds are located near water features. At Pickerel Point Campground, visitors can enjoy lake access during non-riding times. As one camper shares, "The lake is crystal clear and the beach is spotless. You absolutely have to bring a kayak/inflatable boat, but if you don't own one, don't worry, you can rent one."
What campers like
Spacious equestrian sites: Horse campers appreciate the ample space for trailers and temporary containment. At Stokes State Forest, a reviewer notes, "Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents. Site came with bear proof bin for garbage and fire ring."
Off-season availability: Several equestrian-friendly areas remain open when other campgrounds close. At Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area, a camper reported, "Went camping in late October, when a lot of the other parks are closed. Only one section of their camping was still open but the bathrooms and showers had been winterized."
Seasonal wildlife encounters: The forest setting provides opportunities for wildlife observation. One camper at Stokes State Forest shares, "Only shortly after we settled into our tent did we hear foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise!" Another mentions, "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes."
What you should know
Winterized facilities: During cold months, some amenities become unavailable. At Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area, "Only one section of their camping was still open but the bathrooms and showers had been winterized. Stayed in a beechwood area camp site. Was told it was a tent only spot but the layout was not great for tents."
Terrain challenges: The Pocono region presents rocky, sometimes difficult terrain. A visitor to Mountainview Campground noted, "The ground is moderately rocky, so there may be some slight troubles getting tent stakes in the ground." Another mentioned, "The drive to our site had some inclines and was relatively rocky and some vehicles would surely struggle."
Alcohol restrictions: Many state facilities prohibit alcohol consumption. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, campers should note this restriction as it's strictly enforced during peak periods. Some private campgrounds like Mountainview Campground do allow alcohol, with one visitor mentioning, "Strict rules so that nature lovers can enjoy the outdoors without worrying about noisy neighbors or trash everywhere."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Multiple options exist for families with non-riders. At Stokes State Forest, "There are 21 marked trails that cover over 63 miles within the boundaries of Stokes State Forest. Twelve miles are part of the Appalachian Trail. Pick up a hiking map at the park office or download the Avenza Maps app."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds maintain stricter quiet hours than others. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, visitors report mixed experiences: "It was very loud and rowdy into the late night. There were campers making lots of noise, arming/disarming their car alarms, slamming doors, cars driving in/out, bright lights flashing, etc. all PASSED 2am!!"
Child-friendly sites: When camping with children near equestrian areas, consider sites with dedicated play spaces. One reviewer at Spruce Run notes, "Several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area." Another family camping at Pickerel Point reported, "Loved camping on Pickerel Point. Kids had a great time! Bathrooms could be cleaned more often but relatively clean. The road is paved, it makes it easy for the kids to ride bikes, skate etc."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RVers with horse trailers should research specific equestrian-friendly areas in advance. At Spruce Run, one RVer advises, "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."
Utilities availability: Electric and water hookups vary significantly among equestrian camping areas. A visitor to Pickerel Point noted, "We had full hookups (20/30/50 amp, water & sewer). There's no cable but we were able to pickup about 6 channels with our digital antenna."
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