Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area provides designated camping facilities tailored for riders and their horses in Promised Land State Park, Pennsylvania. Located within reasonable driving distance from Wantage, New Jersey, the area sits at approximately 1,800 feet elevation in the Pocono Mountains region. Trail systems throughout the park connect directly to the camping areas, allowing riders varied terrain options ranging from forested paths to open meadows.
What to do
Trail riding excursions: Explore the extensive trail network from Pickerel Point Campground — Promised Land State Park with your horse. "The trails were beautiful, recommend little falls trail. The bathrooms were clean with nice hot showers," notes Kelly F.
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line in the park's lakes when taking a break from riding. "My favorite site does, plus I can launch my kayak right from there! The only drawback is no alcohol allowed, but most State Parks are like that I think," mentions Nancy L. about the water access options.
Nature observation: Watch for wildlife while riding through Stokes State Forest. "We selected site T219. It was a solid choice: private but close to the toilet and water. Some sites located around the opposite side of the ring back up to a babbling brook. The rushing water will soothe you to sleep," writes Trip Over Life.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Equestrian campers appreciate the clean amenities at Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area. "Went tent camping for 3 nights, easy to get to, bathrooms were clean and so was the site. Sites were a good size and not on top of each other," reports Siobhan D.
Spacious sites: Horse campers need extra room and Ocquittunk provides it. "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. The views of the lake are nice, very peaceful," shares Catherine S.
Peaceful atmosphere: Riders value the quiet setting for themselves and their horses. "I stayed at the Beechwood location at the Promised Land state park and despite the constant rain, it was quiet and peaceful. You could only ever hear the wildlife. The RV pads were spaced put perfectly and we all had our own picnic table and fire pit," explains Maze M.
What you should know
Horse management requirements: Proper manure management and containment practices are expected at all equestrian camping locations. Be prepared with appropriate tools for cleanup.
Weather considerations: The Pocono region experiences variable conditions. "The interior features are just what you'd expect for getting away for the weekend. THe main room has a bunk bed and two twins, a table with benches, two Adirondack chairs, a wood stove set into a fireplace," notes W L. about Camp Mohican Outdoor Center.
Reservation needs: Book sites well in advance, especially during peak seasons from May through October. Horse-friendly sites are limited and fill quickly.
Water access: Not all horse sites have direct water access. "The sites had a fire ring with a cooking grate and a picnic table and were well spaced out from other sites. The views of the lake are nice, very peaceful," mentions Catherine S.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Combine equestrian camping with other outdoor pursuits. "The caping set up was nice and I enjoyed the proximity to available hikes in the area. The 'lake' however, was kind of a disappointment. It was much smaller then I expected and a rather underwhelming," shares Ethan K.
Safety precautions: Ensure children understand appropriate behavior around horses. Keep riding helmets mandatory for all young riders.
Alternative activities: Plan non-riding options for family members. "We stayed in the Pickerel Point of the park. We had full hookups (20/30/50 amp, water & sewer). There's no cable but we were able to pickup about 6 channels with our digital antenna. This place is absolutely stunning. The lake is crystal clear and the beach is spotless," reports Debbie W.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose the right location for your horse trailer and RV at Lower Lake Campground Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area. "We have camped here in tents and with our teardrop trailer. All of our experiences have been good. Clean bathrooms are essential and even when the large campground is full the bathrooms have been clean," says David S.
Utility considerations: Full hookup sites are limited, so plan accordingly. "If you are looking for more secluded campsites try to get 13 or 14 as they seem to sick back more. Sites 8-11 are adjacent to the road and in peak times probably have a fair about of foot and vehicle traffic," advises Josh S.
Storage solutions: Bring portable corral panels or high-line equipment as built-in corrals may not be available at all equestrian sites.
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