Equestrian camping opportunities abound across the Allegheny National Forest region, with trails spanning over 600,000 acres of woodland. Pennsylvania's only national forest maintains an average elevation of 1,300 to 2,300 feet, creating moderate temperatures even during summer months. Campers will find a mix of established campgrounds and primitive sites throughout the forest's diverse ecosystem of northern hardwood trees, clear streams, and historic landmarks.
What to do
Explore ancient forest trails: At Hearts Content Recreation Area, campers have easy access to several hiking paths through old-growth forest. "The Recreation Area is home to 3 nice hiking trails, including one all-season trail that converts to a cross-country skiing trail in the snowy months," notes one visitor to Hearts Content Recreation Area.
Fish for multiple species: The waterways throughout Allegheny National Forest offer varied fishing opportunities. "We've never had an issue with bears or other wildlife where food and trash are concerned but we store in the cars at night to be safe," shares a camper at Kelly Pines Campground, adding "Trails galore! Mushrooms everywhere!"
Discover oil industry history: Learn about Pennsylvania's petroleum heritage near Oil Creek State Park. "The park is beautiful with a lot of history (it is the site of the world's first commercial oil well, and where the oil industry began in the United States around 1860) and Oil Creek - which is really a river - runs right down the middle of the park," explains a camper who found the park "fantastic."
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Two Mile Run County Park offers excellent site separation. "Shen staying at two mile you will find the sites are separated by trees and offer you your own little private area. The prices are good and you truly are in nature," writes a reviewer about Two Mile Run County Park.
Peaceful camping experience: The quiet atmosphere at Hearts Content draws repeat visitors. "During weekdays the area deer will often approach from the woods behind the campsites to feast on low hanging leaves. We've seen dozens of them who will get within 10-20 yards of you for a snack later into the night," reports a camper.
Year-round accessibility: Several campgrounds remain open through winter months. "We have stayed at the park for Christmas Eve the past two years. Had the Adirondack shelters to ourselves each year," shares a visitor to Oil Creek State Park, who noted the "firewood is available but you have to donate some cash, split it and haul it to your shelter."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most forest campgrounds have minimal connectivity. One Hearts Content camper reports: "One bar of usable Verizon 4G LTE and T-Mobile 4G LTE suitable for slow web browsing and e-mail, but little else. Because of the very dense tree cover here, Starlink is not really a viable option."
Water availability varies: Not all campgrounds offer potable water. At Kelly Pines Campground "there is no potable water but there is a river and a non-potable pump. There is a permanent toilet usually stocked with TP. Carry out all garbage."
Equestrian-specific amenities: Horse campgrounds near Allegheny National Forest provide specialized facilities. Both Gaswell and Dark Hollow Equestrian Campgrounds in Elk State Forest offer electric and water hookups specifically designed for horse trailers, though neither has dedicated corrals.
Tips for camping with families
Check for playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "They have a great playground, a maze, a catch and release pond. Lots of things to do to keep the kids, or in our case the grandkids occupied," notes a visitor to Big Country Campground.
Consider site privacy needs: Family groups should select appropriately sized sites. At Hearts Content, "Site A02 is very nice for privacy, one of the three front sites which means a bit of road traffic for other arriving campers, but covered by dense old-growth forest on all three sides and well set off the road."
Look for educational opportunities: Many campgrounds offer nature programs. "Taking my three oldest boys camping 8, 6 and 5. So far it has been enjoyable," shares a Hearts Content visitor who found the campground "good for young kids and new campers."
Tips from RVers
Check electrical capacity: Equestrian campgrounds near Allegheny National Forest often provide larger electrical hookups. Both Gaswell and Dark Hollow Equestrian Campgrounds offer 30-amp and 50-amp service to accommodate larger trailers.
Consider tank filling challenges: Some campgrounds have limited water pressure. At Hearts Content, one RVer noted "Water pressure was very low and took a while to fill tank. 26 various sized sites, some large with plenty of space for our 22 foot tow behind and truck + some for extra vehicles."
Research dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer sanitary dumps. "[Hearts Content has] no hookups, about 3-4 fresh water spigots, 1 dump station and dumpster," reports an RVer who stayed at the Red House Area — Allegany State Park State Park, where they found "the campsites were pretty close together and did not offer much privacy unless you had a camper."
