Brendan Byrne State Forest provides equestrian camping opportunities in the New Jersey Pine Barrens, located about 25 miles southeast of Winslow. The sandy soil characteristic of the Pine Barrens creates firm footing for horses on most trails regardless of weather conditions. Temperatures in this region can range from below freezing in winter to above 90°F in summer, with the most comfortable riding weather occurring during spring and fall months.
What to do
Trail riding: The forest maintains miles of multi-use trails through pine forests and sandy terrain. "Lots of good hiking trails, most the sites have pretty decent privacy from the other ones," notes Dan M. about Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park offers dedicated archery facilities for visitors looking to practice their skills. "Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from," reports Dan W. from his experience at Turkey Swamp Park.
Water activities: Several equestrian-friendly parks offer fishing and boating opportunities after trail rides. "There is a lake with a boat dock and a small boardwalk. Kayaking/Canoeing, fishing, and swimming. In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," explains Lee D. about Turkey Swamp Park.
What campers like
Peaceful environment: Horse campgrounds near Winslow, New Jersey offer a quiet retreat from urban areas. "I will start by saying you have to drive a good amount of distance to get into the campground and that is something I really enjoyed! Made me feel super secluded and disconnected from the outside!" writes Dorian P. about Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Clean facilities: Many equestrian-friendly campgrounds maintain good bathroom facilities. "The bathrooms and showers here were in really good condition, well cleaned and stocked, and was pleasant to use!" continues Dorian P. about his experience at Brendan Byrne.
Spacious campsites: Sites designed for horse trailers provide ample room. "Spacious campsite, although the closest water spigot wasn't working. Not a big problem as there are plenty of others," notes Megan S. about the camping area.
What you should know
Tick prevention: The Pine Barrens region has active tick populations, particularly important for equestrian campers. "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!" advises Megan S. from her Brendan Byrne State Forest experience.
Distance from amenities: Many equestrian camping areas are intentionally remote. "It's far away from traffic noise. You can't hear any cars or any other noise from civilization at all. It's at least 10 miles away from anything more than a single house in the woods. 5 miles away from the main road," explains Benjamin K.
Campfire regulations: Turkey Swamp Park and similar facilities have specific rules about fires. "Only weird rule I saw was that fires can only go from 6pm till 7am which was odd but wasn't a deal breaker," notes Dorian P. about Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several equestrian-friendly campgrounds have facilities for children. "There are age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office," reports Lee D. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Trail difficulty levels: The Pine Barrens offer various trail options suitable for different riding skills. "The walking trails! There are probably hundreds of miles of trails through the woods and bogs to explore. Can't tell you how much I love it," shares Benjamin K. about Blackbird State Forest.
Campsite privacy: Sites with good spacing provide better family experiences. "Only 8 sites in the campground, very spaced apart. Each site has lots of room, very much enjoyed our stay and will return!" says Sarah M. about Blackbird State Forest.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At some equestrian campgrounds, utilities may be inconveniently placed. "The site offered electric and water but they were on 2 different sides. This made it difficult to set up. Had to park the camper crooked to use both," cautions Amanda H. from her experience at Lums Pond State Park Campground.
Leveling preparation: Bring appropriate equipment for uneven terrain at horse camping areas. "The site was fairly level, side-to-side, so I really only needed to level front to back. That was a bonus," notes Mark from Lums Pond State Park.
Water hose requirements: Some equestrian sites have distant water hookups. "Nice, remote, private. Some sites unlevel. Bring a LONG water hose," advises Shawn from Turkey Swamp Park.
