New Jersey's Pocono Mountains region hosts equestrian campsites within a one-hour drive of Kinnelon. Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area serves as the primary horse campground facility at Promised Land State Park, offering direct trail access for riders at elevations between 1,700-1,800 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing with summer highs reaching the mid-80s, making spring and fall popular for equestrian camping.
What to do
Trail riding through state forests: Stokes State Forest provides extensive riding trails with varied terrain. "The park offers multiple riding paths through woodland terrain suitable for various experience levels," notes one rider. Ocquittunk within Stokes has "spacious and peaceful camping" with sites that are "very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents."
Fishing from shoreline access points: Many equestrian campsites offer proximity to fishing opportunities. At Pickerel Point Campground, campers note that "certain sites allow pets. My favorite site does, plus I can launch my kayak right from there!" The lake provides excellent fishing access directly from camp.
Explore interconnected trail systems: Connect your ride between multiple parks and recreation areas. At Mohican Outdoor Center, riders appreciate that "the AT runs right through the camp" with "serene w/some ok trails, fire pits, lean to's & cabins." The Center serves as a hub for accessing multiple trail systems.
What campers like
Clean facilities at horse-friendly campgrounds: Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area maintains "clean bathrooms" with "hot water in the shower." Campers note the sites are "a good size and not on top of each other" which provides privacy for those camping with horses.
Direct water access from campsites: Many equestrian sites feature water proximity. One camper at Spruce Run notes, "There was a duck visited us every morning" with sites that have "a view of the Reservoir." Another mentions you can "launch your kayak easily from the shore" after a day of riding.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Horse campers often report wildlife encounters near their campsites. At Mountainview Campground, a camper reported, "We heard foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise!" This remote setting provides excellent wildlife observation between trail rides.
What you should know
Reservation requirements and timing: Most equestrian campgrounds require advance booking. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, campers advise "weekend availability becomes limited during summer months" and recommend booking "mid week" when possible.
Trailer parking considerations: Horse trailer accommodation varies between campgrounds. Campers note that "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," which applies similarly to horse trailers.
Bear safety protocols: The region requires proper food storage for bears. At Stokes State Forest, campers warn "this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided." For horse campers, feed storage needs similar protection.
Weather preparedness: Mountain elevations cause temperature fluctuations. A camper at Liberty Harbor noted, "It went down to 40 degrees that night so we had to make due with extra layers." Similar conditions affect horse campers, requiring appropriate blankets and shelter considerations.
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate trail options: Families appreciate varied trail difficulties near camp. At Camp Starry Night, a visitor suggests "this would be great for a family who are just starting to get interested in camping and would like to experience it first without making a large investment."
Kid-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds offer activities beyond riding. At Pickerel Point, "kids had a great time!" with amenities like "a paved road, it makes it easy for the kids to ride bikes, skate etc."
Educational opportunities: Several parks provide nature programs. Stokes State Forest visitors mention "the Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked" which complements family horseback experiences with educational components.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability near equestrian areas: Lower Lake Campground Hemlock Hill provides "electric and water" connections specifically designed for equestrians. A camper noted they "have camped here in tents and with our teardrop trailer. All of our experiences have been good."
Site selection for dual-purpose camping: RVers with horses recommend specific site types. One camper advises, "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room" which applies especially when accommodating both RVs and horse equipment.
Dump station access: Most equestrian campgrounds provide sanitation facilities. A visitor to Liberty Harbor noted there is "a dump station, but not the easiest to use," suggesting horse campers with RVs should plan accordingly for waste management after longer stays.
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