Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area in Elkton, Maryland offers extensive horse camping opportunities within a one-hour drive of Swedesboro, New Jersey. The 5,000-acre property sits along the Maryland-Pennsylvania border in northern Cecil County. The terrain consists of rolling hills, mixed hardwood forests, and open meadows with elevations ranging from 200 to 450 feet. Trails connect to various sections of the park through diverse ecosystems.
What to do
Trail riding access: Fair Hill's extensive trail system provides miles of marked paths specifically for equestrians. "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 reviewer Gen F. about Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area.
Fishing opportunities: Lakes at several parks near Swedesboro offer fishing for various species. At Lums Pond State Park Campground, campers can fish in the large pond. "The fishing pier, and we didn't even get a nibble, but I think it was too cold for panfish that close to shore," reports Mark, who enjoyed exploring despite not catching anything.
Hiking trail options: Multiple trail networks accommodate all experience levels. "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," shares another Lums Pond visitor, highlighting the interconnected trail system.
What campers like
Large, defined sites: Many campgrounds offer spacious camping areas ideal for horse trailers. "The sites are large and well spaced. Many are in full sun," notes Adam and Suzanne B. about their stay at French Creek State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are available at most established campgrounds. "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease," reports Mark about their experience at Lums Pond State Park.
Natural setting: Camping areas blend into the surrounding landscape. At Hibernia County Park, "Most sites are heavily wooded which means plenty of hammock hanging opportunities. The sites are mostly grass, and not very well defined which means the distance between you and your neighbor can vary depending on how you set up camp," explains Jennifer S.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Popular horse camping sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. At French Creek, "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers," reports Jen R., highlighting the advantages of the established campground.
Limited facilities: Some equestrian camping areas have minimal amenities. At Blackbird State Forest Campground, "Each campsite features a picnic table or two, and a fire pit, plus one bundle of firewood. The ground is dirt covered with woodchips and sometimes evergreen needles -- pretty easy to sleep in a tent," explains D R.
Seasonal considerations: Weather affects trail conditions significantly. "We spent a weekend in BO1, spacious campsite, grill, picnic table, firepit, parking for 2-3 cars plus overflow parking. Firewood was easy to get and was plenty of it," notes John C. about their winter stay at Blackbird State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several parks offer dedicated facilities for children. "Our daughter really enjoyed the playground (which was excellent, by my standards). The only complaint I have is that the kiddie swings seem to be modeled after the seasickness machine," shares Mark about Lums Pond amenities, indicating good play structures.
Quiet surroundings: Brendan Byrne State Forest offers peaceful camping settings. "Nice and quiet, sites are spaced out enough to offer privacy. Good trees for hammocking! Plenty of room for a few tents at each site," observes Lindsay D., noting the family-friendly atmosphere.
Water access options: Lakes provide recreational opportunities beyond horseback riding. "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," explains Anna about Hibernia County Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Campgrounds vary in RV amenities. "Sites are full hook up with about 5 tent sites. All are pretty much level. Close to shopping if needed," notes Sandy E. about Lums Pond State Park, making it suitable for equestrian campers with RVs.
Site selection considerations: Some campgrounds have limited RV access. At Hibernia County Park, Jennifer S. advises, "There are a few sites that will [fit RVs], including #3, #17 & #18 and plenty of sites will fit a small RV or pop up camper. They aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix."
Dump station access: Not all horse-friendly campgrounds have full facilities. "There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee, otherwise, you'll have to look for a truck stop on the way home," cautions Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park.
