Equestrian camping options near Bainbridge, Pennsylvania include facilities for both riders and their horses across the rural Cumberland and Susquehanna Valley regions. Located at approximately 300 feet above sea level, the area experiences moderate seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging in the mid-80s, making it suitable for overnight horse camping from spring through fall. Winter camping with horses isn't recommended due to below-freezing overnight temperatures and limited available facilities.
What to do
Trail riding in Michaux State Forest: Access over 90 miles of marked horse trails through varied terrain. Michaux State Forest permits horse camping at designated sites with proper permits. "Best place to come camping our first time here," notes one rider, who appreciated the forest's accessibility for horse trailers.
Guided battlefield tours: Experience historical sites from horseback at Artillery Ridge Campground, which connects directly to Gettysburg National Historical Site. "The campground is approximately a 3 minute drive from everything in the town of Gettysburg. The battlefields are very close as well," according to a recent visitor who found the location ideal for daily riding excursions.
Fishing breaks between rides: When not riding, anglers can cast a line at several nearby waters. At Little Buffalo State Park Campground, "the lake is beautiful" and contains "several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish." Ice fishing is also permitted when conditions allow.
What campers like
Spacious equestrian sites: Ferryboat Campsites offers designated areas for horse camping with appropriate spacing. As one camper notes, "There are water/electric sites in a loop behind the honeymooner cabins, and they have the best shade and set up for hammock camping." The campground operates seasonally "from April to the end of October."
Clean facilities for riders: Maintaining cleanliness matters after a day on dusty trails. At French Creek State Park Campground, facilities receive consistent praise: "Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers. Nice area to wash dishes." Another camper mentioned, "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other."
Evening quiet hours: After long days on horseback, riders appreciate peaceful nights. Campgrounds enforce quiet periods to ensure rest. "Quiet, very few people mid-week. Spacious sites," reports one camper about French Creek. Another notes that Colonel Denning State Park is a "Very quiet and small campground" where people respect the established quiet hours.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian facilities require advance booking, particularly during peak season. At Gettysburg Campground, sites fill quickly due to proximity to riding trails. "If you are looking for a campground that is very close to an historical National Park not to mention shopping and restaurants, this is for you," notes a visitor who appreciated the convenient location.
Water access limitations: Not all sites provide water hookups at each campsite. Prepare accordingly by filling tanks before arrival or identifying common water points. One camper at Hibernia County Park warns: "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank."
Seasonal availability varies: Several horse-friendly campgrounds operate limited schedules. Ferryboat Campsites runs "from April to end of October," while others may close certain loops during colder months. During summer, especially holidays, expect higher occupancy rates and potentially more noise.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Beyond riding, Colonel Denning State Park Campground offers activities for non-riders in your group. "Amazing large flat sites, dog friendly and great stream right behind the sites," notes one family. "Wide open area to swim that was very clean and well kept" makes it suitable for children of different ages.
Educational opportunities: Many nearby historical sites offer junior ranger programs. One visitor to the Gettysburg area mentioned their experience: "We camped at Artillery Ridge Campground, which served as an artillery storage/staging area for the Union during the battle. Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded."
Weather preparations: Be prepared for varied conditions when bringing children. At Little Buffalo, a camper advised: "We were there in October, so the pool was closed, but it looked nice. We did take our inflatable kayak out on the water, and it was lovely!" Planning alternative activities during inclement weather keeps children engaged.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: RVers should note terrain variations at some horse-friendly campgrounds. At Star Lite Camping Resort, one camper observed: "Yes, it is quite hilly throughout the campground, but the individual sites are very level to park the camper with almost no blocks needed."
Water and electric hookups: When camping with horses, practical amenities become essential. At Star Lite, visitors appreciate that "Water pressure and electric were both great throughout the stay. There is no internet, but we had good cell phone service." This allows for maintaining horse care equipment and staying connected for emergency veterinary needs.
Maneuverability for large rigs: Horse trailers require adequate space for turning and parking. One RVer at Artillery Ridge noted the practical layout: "Nice pull through site for our 21ft popup. Site was pretty level." However, another visitor cautioned about certain areas: "We had a small 19" travel trailer which was almost impossible to park due to very tight sites" at one of the smaller equestrian campgrounds.
