Salt Fork State Park offers equestrian camping 45 miles southeast of Dover, with well-maintained trails connecting to primitive camping areas. The park spans 17,229 acres of diverse terrain with both technical and leisurely riding routes. Campers can access water points along the trails and use facilities specifically designed for horses and their riders, making it a popular destination for those seeking equestrian recreation within driving distance of Dover and surrounding communities.
What to do
Trail exploration beyond bridle paths: The trails at Salt Fork State Park Campground extend well beyond the equestrian system. "The change of season brings a very different atmosphere to the park and the people staying in it. The Trailhead's located throughout the area give you a good workout on the hilly terrain and offer some awesome fall scenery," notes Shelly S. The stone house and cave attractions provide additional hiking destinations.
Fishing opportunities: The natural spring-fed lake at Salt Fork offers excellent fishing conditions for various species. "Bass fishing is really fun because we caught a few nice ones!!" reports Mike T. about Beaver Creek State Park, which provides similar fishing opportunities closer to Dover.
Winter activities: Some equestrian campgrounds near Dover remain open during colder months. Renée C. from Mohican State Park shares, "First come first serve in the winter. One heated bathroom with a shower is open in the winter. Absolutely beautiful & great trails. There is nice several mile through trail that goes from the dam area following the river."
What campers like
Private campsites: Many horse campgrounds near Dover feature secluded sites. Matt H. explains about Beaver Creek State Park: "We camped this past weekend in site 50. It is an unbelievably spacious site under towering pine trees. The site sits back off the road and really makes you feel like you have the place to yourself."
Clean facilities: Even at more rustic campgrounds, visitors appreciate the maintenance. "Probably the nicest pit toilets I have experienced and while we didn't use it, the sun shower building would give anyone privacy if they had packed a portable shower," notes Aaron B. about his stay at Beaver Creek.
Night sky views: Jefferson Lake State Park, approximately 60 miles from Dover, offers clear night skies. Matt H. describes the experience: "The sky was dark enough to see far more stars than you'd see near any larger towns or cities. To cap it off, we laid in our tent dozing off to the sounds of owls and coyotes!"
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Many horse-friendly campgrounds have varied terrain that affects site selection. At West Branch State Park, Andrea F. warns: "Our site was labeled slight slope. That was a joke. We were only off 2 inches side to side but front to back we had to lower the front 15 inches. The jack was down as low as it would go and we were still off by 1.5 inches."
Water availability: Before heading to equestrian camping areas near Dover, check water access. Beaver Creek restricts water usage: "They are on a well so there is limited water and they don't allow you to fill up your on board tank. Make sure you fill up before you go!" advises Bounding Around.
Off-season limitations: Facilities change seasonally at many campgrounds. At West Branch State Park, Joe I. notes, "First time at this park I can see why it's always booked up. It seems like the sites are good sized but some are on slopes even the pads so make sure to bring stuff to level."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose equestrian campgrounds with child-friendly features. Matt H. recommends Beaver Creek State Park: "We got a site near the playground, which my 3 year old enjoyed. The campground wasn't busy and we had a lot of privacy."
Educational opportunities: Several equestrian sites near Dover offer historical attractions. At Mohican Wilderness, Shannon P. describes: "They also have little shops that allows visitors to watch loom and black smith demonstrations and the little ones can participate in candle and leather making."
Beach alternatives: When equestrian camping with children, look for swimming options. Jill T. shares about West Branch State Park: "Swimming area is alright, a little muddy in areas, but the beach is kept clean. There are little hideaway trails everywhere, making for a fun adventure!"
Tips from RVers
Electrical considerations: RV campers should research hookup availability. Alisa G. advises about West Branch State Park: "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly! All campsites have a fire ring and picnic table. West Branch has private, spacious, shady sites."
Leveling challenges: Equestrian campgrounds often have uneven terrain requiring preparation. Rino S. notes about West Branch: "We're at site 160. No electricity, no hook ups, but a HUGE lakefront site. We're in a self-contained RV so it's not a problem for us."
Access restrictions: Some roads at equestrian campgrounds limit RV access. Bounding Around warns about Beaver Creek State Park: "There is a road in the park (Echo Dell Road) that RVs/Trailers can't go on so make sure you approach this campground from Leslie Road!"
