Lower Lake Campground Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area provides primitive, tent-only sites for horse owners in a secluded forest setting near Greentown, PA. This specialized campground section allows equestrians to camp alongside their horses with basic facilities approximately 20 miles west of Wallpack Center. Many sites remain available even on busy summer weekends since the equestrian area receives less traffic than standard camping loops.
What to do
Trail riding access points: The bridle trails near Stokes State Forest connect directly to the Appalachian Trail, providing 12 miles of hiking routes. As one camper notes, "Twelve miles are part of the Appalachian Trail. Pick up a hiking map at the park office or download the Avenza Maps app."
Kayaking on Promised Land Lake: Launch from sites at Pickerel Point Campground with direct water access. A camper explains, "I can launch my kayak right from there! The only drawback is no alcohol allowed, but most State Parks are like that I think."
Fishing for native species: The clear waters of Lake Ocquittunk offer fishing opportunities for local brook trout. A visitor shared, "Clear streams and lake. Stunning overall. Lake Ocquittunk campground had showers, flush toilets and was popular with families."
Wildlife observation: The horse trails through the Delaware Water Gap area provide opportunities to spot deer, foxes and various bird species. A camper at Mountainview recounts, "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!"
What campers like
Winter camping options: Unlike many seasonal campgrounds, Pickerel Point remains open through cold months with limited facilities. A winter visitor explains: "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers."
Secluded forest sites: Many equestrian campers appreciate the more private sites available at Lake Ocquittunk. A camper describes, "The bathrooms are clean and nicely placed. The sites had a fire ring with a cooking grate and a picnic table and were well spaced out from other sites."
Absence of crowds: The relative seclusion of horse campgrounds near Wallpack Center means fewer visitors even during peak season. One visitor noted, "We went to Stokes for a one nighter to test out my new truck tent. While making reservations it said almost all sites were full but upon arrival the vast majority of sites were empty which made for a quiet/relaxing night."
Clear night skies: The distance from major population centers creates excellent stargazing opportunities. A camper at Mountainview shared, "Stayed at one of the primitive sites. Very clean and quite. Bath stalls and showers are basic but clean. Great spot for stargazing. Owners are very nice."
What you should know
Terrain challenges: The horse trails around Keen Lake Resort Campground include rocky sections that require proper horseshoes. Riders should check trail conditions after rain as some sections become muddy and slippery.
Reservation requirements: All equestrian sites require advance booking with limited flexibility for arrival times. One camper explains, "I reserved two nights, but the first night we were not going to be able to arrive until after 9. After talking to them, they would not allow us to come late, but did refund the first night."
Limited cell service: Many horse camping areas have minimal or no cellular coverage. A visitor cautions, "The only negative is that I had almost no cell reception with Verizon."
Water access points: Horse watering stations are strategically located but require planning your ride accordingly. A camper notes, "Water spigots close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers. The park is large with many hiking trails."
Tips for camping with families
Cabin alternatives: Families with young children might prefer the Camp Mohican Outdoor Center cabins when introducing kids to horse camping. A visitor notes, "The Group Campsite was really big. It had 5-6 platforms, privys, big fire ring, a grill, a beatbox, a large pavilion w/picnic tables and a real full sized bathroom only 100 yards away."
Swimming access: After trail rides, cool off at designated swimming beaches. One camper reports, "There is a beach nearby that was an excellent place to gaze at the stars. Loved it!"
Educational opportunities: Many equestrian camps offer weekend demonstrations and workshops. A visitor shares, "Can never go wrong here. Was pleasantly surprised they have programs for kids."
Safety considerations: Keep children away from horse areas unless supervised. As one camper advises, "The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes. Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: When bringing horses and RVs to Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area, select pull-through sites to accommodate both vehicles. A camper shares, "The RV pads were spaced put perfectly and we all had our own picnic table and fire pit."
Power requirements: Horse campgrounds typically offer 30-amp service, which may not support larger RVs with multiple air conditioners. One visitor advises, "The power station was well intact with 15/20, 30, and 50amp. Overall it was a nice stay and served our purpose."
Water access for horses: Bring extended hoses to reach water spigots for horse care. A camper explains, "Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by."
Manure management: Pack out or properly dispose of horse waste in designated areas only. As one visitor notes, "Horse owners appreciate the sanitary dump facilities for managing waste."
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