Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area offers 30-amp and 50-amp electric hookups, water connections, and sewer facilities for riders exploring the network of bridle trails within Promised Land State Park. The area sits at an elevation of approximately 1,800 feet in the western Pocono Mountain region, characterized by mixed hardwood forests and glacial lakes. During spring and fall seasons, morning temperatures regularly drop into the 40s, requiring proper layering for early trail rides.
What to do
Trail riding access: Connect directly to multiple bridle paths without trailering at Lower Lake Campground Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area. The equestrian-dedicated area provides easy access to trails ranging from flat terrain to more challenging routes through wooded sections. "Always a good trip. We have camped here in tents and with our teardrop trailer. All of our experiences have been good," notes David S.
Lakeside recreation: Spend time kayaking or fishing at Pickerel Point Campground where many sites offer direct water access. The clear waters support various fish species and provide cooling relief during summer months. "I can launch my kayak right from there! The only drawback is no alcohol allowed, but most State Parks are like that I think," shares Nancy L.
Hiking options: Explore nearby sections of the Appalachian Trail from Mohican Outdoor Center, which sits about 15 miles from Montague. The center offers convenient trail access points with varying difficulty levels. A reviewer mentioned, "Lots of hiking options as well. If you're there in the summer, I'd recommend taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries."
What campers like
Clean facilities: The recently renovated bathhouses at Beechwood Area receive consistent positive feedback for cleanliness and maintenance. The shower facilities include hot water, which is particularly valuable after long days of hiking or horseback riding. "Bathrooms were clean and water was hot in the shower," reports Angie G.
Spacious campsites: Sites at Stokes State Forest provide ample room between neighbors with natural screening from trees and undergrowth. Many sites include tent platforms, fire rings with cooking grates, and lantern hooks. "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," notes E.M.V.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings offer opportunities to spot deer, foxes, and various bird species throughout the camping areas near Montague. Campers regularly report wildlife encounters, particularly in the more secluded camping areas. "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!" Christina H. shares about her experience at Mountainview Campground.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The Pocono region experiences significant temperature variations, with nights dropping 20-30 degrees below daytime highs even in summer months. Spring and fall camping often requires warm sleeping bags rated for temperatures below 40°F. "It went down to 40 degrees that night so we had to make due with extra layers and bundle up but we made it through the night," recounts Jen R. from Camp Starry Night.
Reservation timing: Popular equestrian sites at Promised Land State Park often fill 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends and holiday periods. Winter camping options are limited, with reduced services and fewer open campgrounds. At Pickerel Point, "Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers," notes Mara S.
Bear safety protocols: All camping areas near Montague require proper food storage to prevent wildlife encounters. Most campgrounds do not provide bear-proof containers, so campers must bring appropriate storage. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes," warns one visitor to the region.
Tips for camping with families
Educational activities: Take advantage of the conservation programs offered at Spruce Run Recreation Area, which often include guided nature walks and wildlife identification sessions for children. "Several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area," Jocelyn G. mentions as family-friendly amenities.
Kid-friendly sites: Choose campsites away from water edges when camping with young children, particularly at lakefront campgrounds. Sites further from shorelines typically offer more level ground for setting up family-sized tents. "We stayed in the Pickerel Point of the park. We had full hookups. This place is absolutely stunning. The lake is crystal clear and the beach is spotless," shares Debbie W.
Noise considerations: Weekday camping generally provides a quieter experience for families who need consistent sleep schedules. Some campgrounds enforce strict quiet hours, while others may experience more nighttime activity. "The campground was very quiet and peaceful. The owners were very friendly. The spot was spacious and comfortable," notes Jami about Mountainview Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: When planning equestrian camping trips with RVs near Montague, verify that your preferred campground can accommodate both your rig and horse trailer. Some equestrian areas have limited sites with full hookups. "We were told it was a tent only spot but the layout was not great for tents," Tiffany K. comments about certain sites at Beechwood Area.
Site selection strategy: Book sites away from low-hanging branches, particularly at Keen Lake Resort Campground, where some wooded areas may present clearance challenges. Level sites with adequate turning radius are concentrated in specific areas. "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," advises Douglas P.
Seasonal considerations: Fall camping offers spectacular foliage views but requires preparation for colder nights and potentially muddy conditions after rain. Electric hookups become particularly valuable during shoulder seasons when overnight temperatures drop. "I enjoyed a great weekend at Stokes State Forest. We stayed at the campsite at Lake Ocquittunk Area. Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents," reports E.M.V.
Ranger
