Equestrian campgrounds near Allentown, Pennsylvania are situated in the foothills of the Pocono Mountains, with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,000 feet. The region experiences all four seasons distinctly, with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winter lows often dropping below freezing. Most horse-friendly camping areas in this region feature a mix of deciduous forest and open meadows, creating natural wind breaks and shade throughout campgrounds.
What to do
Paddle on scenic lakes: At Spruce Run Recreation Area, located about 35 miles from Allentown, visitors can enjoy water activities on the reservoir. "You can rent canoes and kayaks. A huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake. There are trails for mountain biking or hiking, a frisbee golf course, playground at the campground and at the lake," notes Ruette W. The recreation area features multiple camping loops with water views.
Explore historic sites: Near French Creek State Park, campers can visit Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site for a glimpse into early American iron-making. "There is also Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site and Daniel Boone Homestead" nearby, explains Jen R. The park offers equestrian-accessible trails that connect to these historic landmarks.
Stargaze in dark skies: Mountainview Campground provides excellent night sky viewing opportunities away from city lights. "Great spot for stargazing. Owners are very nice," reports Scott A. The campground's position in the hills creates minimal light pollution, making it ideal for astronomy enthusiasts and horse owners wanting peaceful evenings.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: French Creek State Park offers campsites with good separation. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," shares Jen R. Another camper notes, "We LOVE camping here as the campsites are not right on top of one another. There is a lot of shade and the campground is laid out well."
Clean facilities: At Starlite Camping Resort, guests appreciate the well-maintained amenities. "The facilities are spotless and the campground is maintained to the highest standards I have seen," comments Elizabeth L. The resort is located on elevated terrain with views of surrounding countryside, making it suitable for those traveling with horses to nearby riding areas.
Peaceful atmosphere: Many campsites near Allentown provide quiet surroundings. At Hibernia County Park, one visitor shared, "Fantastic weekend with family. Large campsites at the Lake Loop. Very clean and wooded sites. Walking/hiking trails and the lake were super peaceful." These peaceful settings are ideal for campers seeking tranquility.
What you should know
Bathroom conditions vary: Facility quality differs between campgrounds. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, a camper reported: "Showers were cold water only and very cold at that. Late at night you can hear the drone of a major highway." Consider bringing portable options if bathroom quality is important.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds have specific booking policies. "After talking to them, they would not allow us to come late, but did refund the first night," explains a Mountainview Campground visitor, highlighting their strict arrival time policies.
Limited horse-specific amenities: While several campgrounds accommodate horses, dedicated equestrian facilities are uncommon. At Mountainview Campground, sites are "spacious" and "the surroundings are very quiet," but there are no dedicated horse corrals mentioned in reviews. Expect to bring your own portable containment systems.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Several parks offer play areas for children. At French Creek State Park, Jen R. mentions "a very nice playground situated conveniently between the loops of the campground. It had some slides, a bridge, lots of monkey bars, ladders to climb on and the best feature was the zip line."
Consider fishing options: Multiple water bodies offer fishing opportunities for all ages. Anna notes that Hibernia County Park has "a children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too. Great playground." These features make it ideal for family outings with children.
Check for wildlife viewing: Kids often enjoy observing local animals. At Camp Starry Night at Gulyan Farms, Jen R. describes how "you look out over the field and see the mountains in the background with the river running between them" and mentions seeing "steer and sheep in the next field." The farm setting creates educational opportunities for children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the hilly terrain require leveling equipment. At Starlite Camping Resort, Craig F. notes: "Yes, it is quite hilly throughout the campground, but the individual sites are very level to park the camper with almost no blocks needed."
Hookup availability: Verify utility connections before booking. At French Creek State Park Campground, "All sites do not have a water hook up but there is water available and some sites have electric," according to one reviewer. This is crucial information for RVers planning equestrian camping trips near Allentown.
Access considerations: Some horse-friendly camping areas have challenging access roads. As Christina H. described about Mountainview Campground, "The drive to our site had some inclines and was relatively rocky and some vehicles would surely struggle." Large horse trailers may require careful navigation on these routes.
Ranger
