Equestrian camping in the Pocono Mountains area offers specialized facilities for horseback riders within 60-70 miles of Bloomingburg, New York. This region spans parts of Pennsylvania and New Jersey, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 feet creating varied terrain for trail riding. Temperatures in this area average 70-80°F in summer months with moderate humidity, ideal for both horse and rider comfort.
What to do
Trail riding access points: At Lower Lake Campground Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area, riders can access multiple trail systems. One camper notes, "Always a good trip... It is a state park and so the campsites are often close, but we don't mind. We'd be somewhere else if isolation was what we wanted." The campground connects to several miles of bridle paths within Promised Land State Park.
Swimming with horses: At Keen Lake Resort Campground, the 90-acre lake offers unique water activities. A visitor mentioned, "They have a beach for swimming with your dogs," which extends to horses at designated times in special areas. Morning hours from 7-9am are typically reserved for equestrian swimming when permitted.
Scenic lookout rides: The terrain around North-South Lake Campground includes elevation changes ideal for panoramic views. "Located just about a mile from Kaaterskill Falls this campground couldn't be in a better spot," reports one reviewer. Trail difficulty varies from beginner-level flat paths to more challenging inclines with stone obstacles.
What campers like
Natural water features: Campers appreciate the water access at Pickerel Point Campground with one visitor stating, "We had site 100 and amazing views of the water from our camper. The trails were beautiful, recommend little falls trail." These water features provide natural drinking sources for horses when accessed via designated equestrian trails.
Privacy between sites: At the equestrian areas, site spacing allows for horse trailer parking. One camper at Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area observed, "The RV pads were spaced put perfectly and we all had our own picnic table and fire pit. 10/10 would visit again." This spacing proves essential for horse campers needing additional room for equipment.
Clean facilities: Maintaining sanitary conditions ranks high in camper satisfaction. A visitor noted, "Bathrooms were clean and so was the site. Sites were a good size and not on top of each other." Another mentioned, "The bathrooms and showers had been winterized," indicating year-round potential for some equestrian camping areas with proper preparation.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons from May through October. Sites for horse camping fill quickly, particularly on summer weekends and holidays.
Manure management protocols: All horse camping facilities require proper waste handling. Campers must bring tools for cleanup and use designated disposal areas, typically located at least 200 feet from water sources.
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant seasonal changes affecting trail conditions. A camper at Stokes State Forest warns, "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes." These wildlife concerns extend to equestrian campers who must secure feed properly.
Tips for camping with families
Multi-activity options: Families with both riders and non-riders need diverse recreation. "We stayed in the cabins. It's great to have the small kitchen when camping with the family. A must see campground," says one visitor about Stokes State Forest, highlighting accommodation flexibility for mixed groups.
Safety planning: Establish meeting points and schedules when family members separate for different activities. Most equestrian campgrounds cover large areas with varying cell service reliability.
Educational programs: Many parks offer ranger-led programs specifically about local wildlife and ecology. "The conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked," notes a visitor, describing an option suitable for younger family members while others ride.
Tips from RVers
Trailer parking specifications: RV sites accommodating horse trailers require specific dimensions. Ensure your combined vehicle length fits designated spaces, typically 45-70 feet depending on the campground.
Utility hookup locations: Position your RV strategically for both horse supervision and utility access. "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," mentions a camper describing the practical amenities.
Seasonal planning: Off-peak seasons offer quieter experiences but with facility limitations. One RVer noted, "Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers," highlighting the winter camping options for experienced equestrians and their horses.
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