Equestrian camping in the Upper Delaware region offers unique opportunities to explore forest trails and river valleys on horseback. The Pocono Mountains provide varied terrain with elevations ranging from 800-2,200 feet and temperatures typically 5-10 degrees cooler than nearby urban areas. Trail conditions vary seasonally, with some routes becoming muddy after rainfall and requiring careful navigation.
What to Do
Horseback riding on woodland trails: Lackawanna State Park Campground connects to multiple riding paths through mature forests. "The state park is a great way to get away and enjoy the forests. There is plenty of space to bring lunch and have a picnic. One suggestion would be to bring a fishing rod and enjoy casting while the kids run around and play," notes Maggie A.
Fishing in clear waters: The lakes and streams offer excellent fishing opportunities for various species. At Ocquittunk, campers report good catches. "The kids caught multiple sunnies and even a small perch," shares Shannon C. who stayed nearby. Fishing licenses required for anyone 16 or older.
Kayaking and canoeing: Many campgrounds offer water access or boat rentals. "There is an area for day use where you can rent a paddle boat or kayak to go out on the water. Highly recommended if you like hiking," says J G. at Bear Spring Mountain — DEC.
Winter activities: Some areas remain open year-round. "This was my second visit in the cold months. 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," reports Mara S.
What Campers Like
Lake access for riders: Equestrian campers appreciate water features near riding trails. "The location offers proximity to the Delaware River and surrounding natural areas with additional riding opportunities," according to frequent visitors. Private lake access points allow horses to cool off during summer rides.
Clean facilities: Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area gets high marks for maintenance. "Clean bathrooms are essential and even when the large campground is full the bathrooms have been clean," notes David S. who added, "We have camped here in tents and with our teardrop trailer. All of our experiences have been good."
Privacy between sites: Many equestrian sites offer better spacing than standard campgrounds. "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," reports Catherine S. about nearby camping areas.
Well-maintained trails: Regular trail maintenance makes for safer riding. "Highly recommended if you like hiking. Great flowers and nature. There is a hiking loop that goes around the pond," notes J G., which applies to equestrian trails as well.
What You Should Know
Seasonal considerations: Camp Mohican Outdoor Center staff advises trail conditions vary throughout the year. "If you're there in the summer, I'd recommend taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries. Lots of hiking options as well," shares Dan X., highlighting activities when not riding.
Trailer parking and site dimensions: Not all camping areas accommodate horse trailers. "The sites seemed a little narrow when we first pulled in, but it was plenty," mentions Shannon C. about nearby camping. Call ahead to confirm your rig will fit.
Water and feed requirements: Pack your own feed and water buckets as most parks don't provide horse supplies. "The store has a huge selection of necessities, so no need to worry about forgetting things," says Emily Z., though this applies mainly to human supplies at Keen Lake Resort Campground.
Weather impact on trails: Trail access may be affected by recent weather. "Worst part though was when i did go and camp out for a week near the small pond part it rained and our campsite turned into a complete mud pit," warns Lou R. about conditions that can affect riding plans.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with activities beyond riding. "There is a lot for younger kids to do and the grounds are pet friendly which was a huge plus for us. My kids really loved having a pool to swim in, in addition to the lake," shares Emily Z.
Safety considerations: Some trails are better suited for experienced riders. "The security is great and patrol to make sure quiet hours are quiet to be courteous to other campers that want quiet time," notes Mike H., which applies to general campground supervision.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs. "Loved camping on Pickerel Point. Kids had a great time! The museum and crafts were closed due to Covid so that was a bummer but we found other things to do," reports Paula R. about Pickerel Point Campground.
Multi-generational activities: Consider campgrounds with options for non-riders. "This is a great place for families. It would be a great place to camp with extended family," recommends Emily Z., noting the variety of activities available.
Tips from RVers
Hookup reliability: Check amperage before plugging in. "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," shares Debbie W.
Site selection for larger rigs: Choose sites carefully if traveling with horses and an RV. "We were able to scope out others that we would prefer for our next visit. We didn't have a view of the lake, instead we were in someone's back yard lol. It wasn't a big deal. The site was well maintained and flat which were the most important," mentions Emily Z.
Arrival timing: Horse-friendly campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "We stayed in a beechwood area camp site. Was told it was a tent only spot but the layout was not great for tents," notes Tiffany K. about campsite limitations, which applies to trailer considerations as well.
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