Lower Lake Campground Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area in Promised Land State Park serves horseback riders seeking trails in the Pennsylvania woodland approximately 35 miles southwest of Middletown, New York. The equestrian camping area sits at about 1,500 feet elevation in the Pocono Mountains, where temperatures average 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands. Winter camping remains available year-round with seasonal amenities, while summer visitors can access multiple lakes and over 50 miles of trails.
What to do
Trail riding access: Riders can explore extensive woodland trails directly from Lower Lake Campground Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area. While corrals aren't provided at campsites, the area offers adequate space for portable corrals or highlines. The campground maintains a perfect 5-star rating, with one camper noting, "Always a good trip...clean bathrooms are essential and even when the large campground is full the bathrooms have been clean."
Hiking options: The region offers trails for all ability levels. At Stokes State Forest, one visitor explained, "There are 21 marked trails that cover over 63 miles within the boundaries of Stokes State Forest. Twelve miles are part of the Appalachian Trail." Another camper recommended, "Hike to Sunset Mountain Scenic Overlook for a view of High Point Monument."
Water activities: Lakes throughout the region provide swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. At Pickerel Point Campground, a camper shared, "The lake is crystal clear and the beach is spotless. You absolutely have to bring a kayak/inflatable boat, but if you don't own one, don't worry, you can rent one." Fishing is popular with multiple species available.
What campers like
Proximity to water: Many campsites offer direct water access. At Pickerel Point, one camper stated, "Almost every campsite is close to the water. Our site had kayak access and that was a real bonus." Similarly, at Ocquittunk, a reviewer mentioned their "beautiful mossy bank, next to a river and a lake. The area was quiet and peaceful, and areas with waterfalls and great views were easily accessible."
Spacious campsites: The region offers well-spaced sites that provide privacy. At Ocquittunk, a camper noted, "The sites were well spaced out from other sites. The views of the lake are nice, very peaceful." Another reported, "Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. At Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area, visitors consistently mention cleanliness: "Bathrooms were clean and so was the site. Sites were a good size and not on top of each other." Another camper shared, "Went tent camping for 3 nights, easy to get to, bathrooms were clean and so was the site."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires preparation. A visitor to Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area explained, "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." Sites with electric hookups remain available during cold months.
Wildlife awareness: Bears, ticks, and snakes inhabit the region. At Camp Mohican Outdoor Center, campers regularly encounter wildlife: "Plenty of fish, snapping turtles, and other wildlife." At Stokes State Forest, a camper warned, "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes."
Limited services: Many campgrounds have restricted store hours or no stores. One camper at Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area advised, "Firewood was available in the area. But not much for stores so pack everything in before." Cell service can be spotty, with one camper noting, "The only negative is that I had almost no cell reception with Verizon."
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options: Several parks offer cabins for families wanting more shelter. At Stokes State Forest, a family reported, "We stay in the cabins. It's great to have the small kitchen when camping with the family. A must see campground." Cabins range from rustic to those with kitchens and bathrooms.
Kid-friendly activities: Paved roads in some campgrounds provide safe cycling areas. At Pickerel Point Campground, a visitor mentioned, "Love that the road is paved, it makes it easy for the kids to ride bikes, skate etc... We will definitely be back." Educational programs are available seasonally, with one camper noting, "Was pleasantly surprised they have programs for kids."
Beach access: Swimming areas provide entertainment for children. A Pickerel Point visitor described, "Kids had a great time! Bathrooms could be cleaned more often but relatively clean. The museum and crafts were closed due to Covid so that was a bummer but we found other things to do."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric, water, and sometimes sewer connections are available at certain sites. At Pickerel Point Campground, an RVer reported, "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."
Site selection: RV campers should research site specifications before booking. A Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area visitor explained, "Was told it was a tent only spot but the layout was not great for tents," indicating some sites favor RVs. Another camper mentioned, "The RV pads were spaced out perfectly and we all had our own picnic table and fire pit."
Seasonal flexibility: Year-round options exist for RVers. One camper noted about Pickerel Point, "Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers. The park is large with many hiking trails and ice fishing." Winter stays offer unique activities like ice fishing and uncrowded trails.
