Lower Lake Campground Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area provides dedicated facilities for horseback riders located within Promised Land State Park. The equestrian campground sits at approximately 1,800 feet elevation in the Pocono Mountains, with access to over 50 miles of riding trails through Pennsylvania woodland terrain. Weather conditions range from summer highs averaging 80°F to winter lows often below freezing, creating varied camping conditions throughout the seasons.
What to do
Trail riding access: Riders can connect directly to the bridle path system from Pickerel Point Campground, allowing for varied riding experiences. "The trails were beautiful, recommend little falls trail. The bathrooms were clean with nice hot showers," notes Kelly F. The trail system accommodates different skill levels with paths ranging from beginner-friendly flat terrain to more challenging wooded sections.
Lakeside activities: Multiple water recreation options available at Lackawanna State Park Campground throughout spring and summer months. "The swimming beach looked nice. They do have boat rental," shares Amy V. For horse campers wanting a break from riding, the park offers non-motorized boating opportunities on the 198-acre lake.
Winter recreation: When temperatures drop, equestrian camping areas remain accessible with certain trails open for cold-weather use. "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers," reports Mara S. Winter visitors can also enjoy ice fishing on the frozen lakes when conditions permit.
What campers like
Lakeside camping locations: The proximity to water makes Keen Lake Resort Campground particularly appealing to equestrian campers looking for post-ride relaxation. "I stayed on a lakeside electric/water site for 5 nights in August 2020. It was SO BEAUTIFUL. We had SUPs and kayaks to take on the lake and our sites were right next to the boat launch," shares Shannon C. Many sites offer direct water views or access points.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained bathhouses throughout the region's equestrian camping areas. "The bathrooms were the cleanest we've ever experienced at a campground," reports Emily Z. Most facilities include hot showers with reliable water pressure, important for riders after a day on the trails.
Spacious camping areas: Sites accommodate horse trailers with designated parking areas. "We stayed in the Pickerel Point of the park. We had full hookups (20/30/50 amp, water & sewer). All of the sites were spacious," notes Debbie W. Equestrian areas typically provide extra room for trailers and tack storage.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires additional preparation as some water services are winterized. "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," reports Tiffany K. at Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area.
Reservation requirements: Peak riding seasons (May-October) fill quickly, especially for equestrian-specific sites. Advance booking of 3-6 months recommended for weekend dates.
Site terrain: Some camping areas have challenging ground conditions. "Chunky bluestone gravel on the sites, so bring a sleeping pad!" advises Alaina Z. Horse-friendly sites are typically more level to accommodate trailers but may have varied surface materials.
Alcohol restrictions: State park regulations prohibit alcohol consumption. "The only drawback is no alcohol allowed, but most State Parks are like that I think," mentions Nancy L.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: For families combining equestrian camping with other activities, multiple swimming areas provide cooling options. "The park is large with many hiking trails and ice fishing. The park has a huge pool area," shares Michael from Tuscarora State Park Campground. Most swimming beaches open Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs specifically designed for young visitors. "There is an environmental education center with programs, there is fishing and boating, and an amazing network of hiking and horse riding trails," notes Janet R.
Playgrounds and recreation: Many campgrounds feature child-friendly amenities near equestrian areas. "Nice play area for kids, water craft rentals, nice lake. Plenty of picnic areas for day trips," reports Cheryl M.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Equestrian camping areas provide varying levels of service connections. "Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by," notes one camper. Most horse-friendly campgrounds offer at minimum 30-amp service with water available at central locations.
Site selection strategy: Mohican Outdoor Center provides insights for selecting optimal sites. "The Group Campsite was really big. It had 5-6 platforms, privys, big fire ring, a grill, a beatbox, a large pavilion w/picnic tables and a real full sized bathroom only 100 yards away," says Shawn B. For equestrian camping, sites nearest to trail access points offer the most convenient horse access.
Parking configurations: Most equestrian sites accommodate both living quarters and standard horse trailers. "Trailer parking accommodates horse transport vehicles at the campsite areas," notes multiple reviewers. Sites typically provide pull-through access for easier maneuvering with trailers.
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