Brendan Byrne State Forest offers equestrian camping in New Jersey's Pine Barrens, 25 miles east of Mantua. The forest maintains well-marked riding trails through stands of pitch pine and Atlantic white cedar swamps. Camping areas accommodate both riders and non-riders, with primitive sites situated in heavily wooded terrain. Ground conditions remain relatively dry in summer but can become muddy during spring rain seasons.
What to do
Trail riding with horses: Lums Pond State Park Campground provides over 17 miles of equestrian-friendly trails around a 200-acre millpond. "The trails were well marked, and the day we took a hike, we ended up on the equestrian trail that runs all the way around the pond. It was a long, but easy hike," notes Mark, who appreciated the clear trail markings.
Fishing opportunities: French Creek State Park Campground features two lakes stocked with multiple fish species. "There are two lakes in French Creek, Hopewell and Scott's Run and each contain many species of fish. We spent Saturday afternoon fishing but not catching anything at Scott's Run," mentions Ellen C., though she still enjoyed the experience.
Mountain biking: Brendan Byrne State Forest offers extensive mountain biking trails through the pine forests. "There are probably hundreds of miles of trails through the woods and bogs to explore. Can't tell you how much I love it. Could spend a whole vacation just with these trails and never leave this state park," writes Benjamin K. about the trail system.
Canoe and kayak rentals: Visitors can rent small watercraft at Hibernia County Park for exploring Chambers Lake. "Lots of boating (electric motors only) and kayaking on the pond and a decent amount of hiking," reports Ellen B., who visits regularly for water activities.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Blackbird State Forest Campground offers well-separated camping areas. "Only 8 sites in the campground, very spaced apart. Each site has lots of room, very much enjoyed our stay and will return!" shares Sarah M., highlighting the privacy between sites.
Clean facilities: Brendan Byrne State Forest maintains well-kept bathroom facilities. "The bathrooms and showers here were in really good condition, well cleaned and stocked, and was pleasant to use!" writes Dorian P., who appreciated the campground's maintenance standards.
Natural setting: Hibernia County Park provides a dense wooded environment for camping. "We LOVE this campground. It's tiny (19 sites in Fiddlers loop), it's quiet, it's heavily wooded. There is NOTHING to do except walk or bike the beautiful trails," Jennifer S. explains about the peaceful atmosphere.
Easy access: Several horse campgrounds near Mantua, New Jersey offer good accessibility. "Easy access from I-95, beautiful park setting with fantastic sites—spacious, level, good-working hookups, and paved," notes Matt S. about Lums Pond State Park, making it convenient for travelers with horse trailers.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Popular equestrian campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises Ellen B. about Lums Pond State Park Campground, where reservations can be difficult to secure.
Seasonal considerations: Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area offers year-round access but with specific group camping requirements. "There are two primitive youth group camping areas. There are specific rules that need to be followed and the guidelines are on the website," notes Gen F. about their camping restrictions.
Fire regulations: Some parks restrict campfire 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," mentions Dorian P. about Brendan Byrne State Forest's fire policies.
Limited amenities: Blackbird State Forest provides basic facilities. "No running water- only port a potties but they were clean," reports Sarah M., indicating campers should bring their own water supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: French Creek State Park provides multiple play areas for children. "Nice playground area and clean. Very nice playground area and clean," writes Jen R., who found the recreation facilities suitable for families with young children.
Kid-friendly fishing: Hibernia County Park maintains a dedicated fishing area for younger anglers. "Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too. Great playground," explains John Z., highlighting the age-appropriate fishing opportunities.
Bathroom proximity: Consider site location relative to facilities with children. "Some engineering genius put the bath houses furthest from the people that need them most. Tent campers... keep your shoes handy, it's a hike," warns al K. about Lums Pond State Park's layout.
Trail difficulty ratings: Select appropriate hiking routes for children. "The trails were well marked, and the day we took a hike, we ended up on the equestrian trail that runs all the way around the pond. It was a long, but easy hike," Mark notes about Lums Pond State Park's accessible trail options.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Lums Pond State Park Campground offers level sites for RVs. "The site was fairly level, side-to-side, so I really only needed to level front to back. That was a bonus," explains Mark, who found the concrete pads convenient for setup.
RV size limitations: Hibernia County Park accommodates some larger rigs in specific sites. "Though at first glance the sites don't look big enough to house an RV, there are a few sites that will, including #3, #17 & #18 and plenty of sites will fit a small RV or pop up camper," advises Jennifer S., noting not all sites work for larger vehicles.
Hookup availability: Check for utility connections when reserving. "Sites are full hook up with about 5 tent sites. All are pretty much level. Close to shopping if needed," points out Sandy E. about Lums Pond State Park's amenities.
Off-season camping: Consider shoulder season for better availability. "In February, about 1/4 of the sites were occupied. It was very quiet. The sites are large and well spaced," notes Adam and Suzanne B. about winter camping at Lums Pond State Park.
