Promised Land State Park's Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area sits at 1,800 feet elevation in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. The region's forested terrain features both rolling hills and rocky sections with elevations ranging from 1,400 to 2,100 feet. Trail conditions vary seasonally with spring bringing muddy paths and winter often limiting access to designated trails due to snow accumulation.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Stokes State Forest features 21 marked trails covering over 63 miles within forest boundaries. "The area was quiet and peaceful, and areas with waterfalls and great views were easily accessable," notes a Stokes State Forest visitor who camped along a river.
Kayaking on clear waters: Promised Land State Park offers crystal clear lakes perfect for paddling. According to one Pickerel Point Campground camper, "Almost every campsite is close to the water. Our site had kayak access and that was a real bonus." Sites with water access let horse owners cool off after riding.
Winter activities: The Hemlock Hill area provides access to winter recreation when conditions permit. A visitor at Beechwood Area notes, "Went camping in late October, when a lot of the other parks are closed. Only one section of their camping was still open but the bathrooms and showers had been winterized."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campgrounds near Goshen provide ample room for horse trailers and equipment. "The sites were generously sized, shady, and relatively private thanks to the vegetation," according to one visitor at Ocquittunk in Stokes State Forest.
Clean facilities: Equestrian campgrounds maintain sanitary conditions even during peak usage. A camper at Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area shared, "Bathrooms were clean and so was the site. Sites were a good size and not on top of each other."
Well-marked trails: Trail systems accessible from horse campgrounds feature clear signage. "The Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked," notes a visitor who appreciated the trail conditions suitable for both hikers and riders.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Spring conditions may require special preparation for horse camping trips. "Due to cooler temps there were really no bugs to complain about while camping," mentions a Camp Mohican Outdoor Center visitor, highlighting how seasonal timing affects experience.
Reservation planning: Horse-friendly sites book quickly during peak seasons. One camper advises, "Loved camping on Pickerel Point. Kids had a great time! Bathrooms could be cleaned more often but relatively clean." Reservations for equestrian sites should be made 3-6 months in advance.
Surface conditions: Some campgrounds have terrain that affects tent camping comfort. A visitor noted, "Chunky bluestone gravel on the sites, so bring a sleeping pad!" This is especially relevant for horse owners who may camp in tents alongside their trailers.
Tips for camping with families
Educational activities: Some equestrian areas provide learning opportunities for children. "The park has sections for that as well. We'll definitely return!" shares one family that enjoyed mixing horse activities with nature programs.
Beach access: Several parks with horse camping also offer swimming. A visitor at Liberty Harbor RV Park mentioned, "My wife visited Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island," showing how horse campgrounds near Goshen can serve as bases for family side trips.
Wildlife viewing: Horse-friendly trails often provide wildlife sighting opportunities. "You can rent kayaks and canoes and swimming is allowed on Catfish Pond -- plenty of fish, snapping turtles, and other wildlife," notes a camper who visited with their family.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for trailers: Choose appropriate sites when bringing horse trailers and RVs together. "We've paid much less for 'more'... the $120 price per night was ridiculous. But being that they have no competitors in the area (and they know it), RVers wanting a quick escape to see NYC can get it here," explains an RV owner discussing price considerations.
Hookup availability: Horse campgrounds vary in electrical and water options. "We had site 100 and amazing views of the water from our camper. The trails were beautiful, recommend little falls trail," shares an RVer who found a site with both scenic views and trail access.
Winter preparation: Some equestrian campgrounds remain open year-round with limited services. "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers," notes a winter camper at Pickerel Point.
Ranger
