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Equestrian Camping near Bendersville, PA

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    SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

    Michaux State Forest near Bendersville offers primitive equestrian camping at designated parking lot sites that serve dual purpose for horse camping. The Teaberry parking area includes a few hitching posts and a two-step mounting block for riders. Camping permits are free but required for these motorized camping areas, which remain open year-round with seasonal fire restrictions from March 1 to May 25. Horse camping is permitted at several designated sites throughout the forest, though these lack drinking water, electric hookups, or restroom facilities. Most equestrian sites feature basic fire rings and some include picnic tables. The parking areas accommodate both horse trailers and camping equipment, making them practical for overnight stays with horses.

    The forest's trail system provides extensive riding opportunities with varied terrain through mixed deciduous and coniferous forest areas. Some sections offer open prairie and sparsely wooded meadow riding experiences. Riders must bring all supplies including water for horses, as no drinking water is available at the sites. While primitive in nature, the campgrounds are well-maintained and provide adequate space for both horses and camping equipment. Cell service varies significantly throughout Michaux, with some areas having strong coverage while others remain completely disconnected. Pets are allowed as long as they remain under control and don't disturb others or wildlife. The forest sits at the northern terminus of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering scenic views along the trails despite being more foothill than mountain at this latitude.

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    Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Bendersville (14)

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      1. Gettysburg Campground

      4.0(28)11mi from BendersvilleRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "I always appreciate the near solitude experience of this campground as 90% of the sites are RV sites, that are kept away from the tenting area."

      "If you’re looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn’t it."

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      2. Artillery Ridge Campground

      4.3(27)12mi from BendersvilleRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "This park is a perfect location if you want to explore Gettysburg National Historical Site as you can literally walk across the street and be in the park or venture½ mile up the road and you come to the"

      "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded."

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      3. Michaux State Forest

      4.0(6)9mi from BendersvilleRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "Some reviewers have confused nearby State Parks with the actual State Forest, resulting in inaccurate information."

      "Every January for the last few years some friends and I have gone and camped along the Appalachian Trail."

      from $10 / night

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      4. Colonel Denning State Park Campground

      4.8(9)23mi from Bendersville50 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Cleanest facilities of the year so far, amazing large flat sites, dog friendly and great stream right behind the sites."

      "We stayed in site 28 which was a walk-in site, this was perfect for us since we wanted to be further away from people and the light from the bathroom/shower facility."

      from $20 - $38 / night

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      5. Teaberry Parking Area Campsites — Michaux State Forest

      3.0(1)14mi from Bendersville5 sitesRVs, Tents

      from $10 / night

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      6. Little Buffalo State Park Campground

      4.5(19)33mi from Bendersville52 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "A playground is near bathhouse in the campground, along with several hiking trails. The dump station is easily accessible. Firewood is also available for purchase at the campground."

      "The driving path is gravel with a steep hill at the end so if you can help it I would avoid sites 32,34,36 as they are VERY difficult to back into with larger rigs."

      from $26 - $165 / night

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      7. Peggy's Hill Parking Area Campsites — Michaux State Forest

      Be the first to review16mi from Bendersville2 sitesRVs, Tents

      from $10 / night

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      8. Ferryboat Campsites

      4.0(6)41mi from BendersvilleRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "With that said they do have primitive camping spots next to the putt putt course and water only tent sits at the upper feild."

      "Lots to do very close to water and many things to do in and around camp ground. Stayed for a few days would go back."

      from $30 - $100 / night

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      9. Camp Winery

      5.0(1)38mi from Bendersville1 siteRVs, Tents

      "Close to many cool things in the area too"

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      10. South Block — Tuscarora State Forest

      Be the first to review31mi from Bendersville32 sitesRVs, Tents

      from $10 / night

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    Equestrian Camping Reviews near Bendersville, PA

    97 Reviews of 14 Bendersville Campgrounds

    • Nancy W.The Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 30, 2021

      Artillery Ridge Campground

      Great Location to Battlefield

      This park is a perfect location if you want to explore Gettysburg National Historical Site as you can literally walk across the street and be in the park or venture½ mile up the road and you come to the park’s main visitor center. The campground has a bunch of different sites whether you want to spend more money for a premium full hook-up or save a few bucks and just get water and electric. There are lots of tent sites, cabins, and horse stalls with a corral for those traveling with horses. The park is also very close to the historic downtown so you don’t have to drive too far for the attractions. 

      We were able to do contactless check-in by making the reservation and paying over the phone. When we arrived, they had a packet out on a picnic table for us with directions to our site and information about the park and the surrounding area. But, the best part of the check-in was that we got a free bundle of wood and the cutest little s’mores packet which had just enough fixings for the two of us. Such a great touch that we really appreciated. We had a gravel pull thru site which was easy to navigate in and out of with our tow car attached and was plenty long enough. The roads are gravel but were not dusty. The site and patio were gravel and a mix of grass. The campground was very clean and well-cared for. 

      Some of the sites are in the open without much shade but some other areas have some nice shade.  Most of the tent section is pretty open with a few trees scattered about.  Some of the sites (i.e., 82) is very close to the playground and the fishing pond which get quite a bit of action so be aware of the nearby amenities when you choose a site.  

      This park is well-suited for people traveling with horses. There are multiple pens and a fenced riding arena and ample RV sites and cabins in the near the horse stalls and there is a hose wash rack. 

      Some of the things we liked about this park:

      • There is a big section of the park dedicated to horses as the National Riding Stables are located on the grounds. You can get guided tours of the battlefield on their rescue horses.

      • A 24/7 firewood dispensing machine– which we had never seen before• Catch and release fishing pond• Free putt putt golf.

      • Heated swimming pool

      • Clean, well-kept campground• Lots of activities for kids with playgrounds, volleyball basketball, game room, camp store, movies, pool, etc.

      We paid $44/night for our full hook-up site (#45) which we didn’t think was too expensive or unreasonable. Luckily for us, nobody was next to us during our stay (in May) as the neighboring sites were pretty close and this campground probably feels very tight when it’s full. The close proximity to Gettysburg NHS was the biggest plus of this park for us.

    • MJ B.
      Jun. 19, 2024

      Artillery Ridge Campground

      Camping as close to history as you can get

      Spent a weekend at Gettysburg. 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. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts. So close to history. We have been to Gettysburg before, but going with the kids again being older, we all had a greater appreciation of the sacrifice of this 3-day battle. We did Park Ranger tours to learn about the 1st shot and how the war started to stand in the footsteps of General Buford at Senitary Ridge in the cupola overseeing the battlefield. Later in the day we took a horse carriage ride through the battlefields, Picketts Charge and the peach orchard with a private guide to learn every ounce of the battlefield and the major players to learn about the 3 days of fighting that took place to how the civilians of Gettysburg were impacted. The three day battle claimed over 50,000 lives and we toured the town of Gettysburg to learn how the community had to deal with the aftermath of the masses who perished, the smell which went on for over 30 miles and limited resources such as clean water. It's amazing to see how history was so preserved but right across the street from battlefields where so many died stands fast food restaurants, and hotels. A little surreal. Would definitely recommend a ride out to Gettysburg and this campground, which is right next to the battlefields. Clean facilities. If you are into horses, this is the place for you! Though sites are not very private, everyone is very respectful, and you are not on top of each other. Quiet hours are observed, which is nice too. Store has a great variety of souviners, treats, and emergency camping items. You can't get any closer to history than here. Would definitely recommend if you are looking to visit Gettysburg.

    • B
      Sep. 1, 2022

      Michaux State Forest

      Motorized and Primitive Sites, but double check info.

      Some reviewers have confused nearby State Parks with the actual State Forest, resulting in inaccurate information. Despite their proximity, Caledonia and Pine Grove Furnace State Parks are NOT considered State Forest land, and have completely different amenities, availability, and regulations.

      Michaux State Forest sites fall in to 4 categories:

      1. Designated motorized sites, which require a free online permit and are open April 2 until the 3rd Sunday after Thanksgiving

      2. Designated motorized parking lot sites, which require the same free online permit but are open year-round

      3. Primitive backpacking sites, open year-round (no permit required, should be at least 1 mi from a trailhead, and only 1 night per site allowed)

      4. Primitive Cabins, which are on State Forest land but are managed by and booked through the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club.

      None of the sites available in Michaux have:

      -electric or water hookups. If you used/saw one, you were in a State Park, not Forest.

      -drinking water available at sites (some have a creek or springhouse, which must be treated first)

      -restrooms (a very small number of sites have outhouses within 1/4 mi or so, but don't count on it)

      All designated sites have some sort of fire ring, whether stones or metal.

      Some, but not all, designated sites have picnic tables.

      Cell service varies greatly. Some sites will have none without a decent drive or hike, while others have 4 bars.

      Fires are not permitted at all from March 1 to May 25, and are also banned when fire danger is deemed too high.

      Alcohol is permitted, except in picnic areas.

      Designated motorized parking lot sites also serve as equestrian sites, and horse camping is allowed here. Teaberry has a few hitching posts and a two step mounting block available.

      Pets are allowed as long as they are under control at all times and are not disturbing others. If your dog's recall is anything but perfect, they haven't earned the privilege. Use a leash or long line; remember that if your out-of-control dog gets into a fight with an aggressive but leashed dog, the fault is yours. It's not worth two sets of vet bills.

      This is my go-to local place for camping and hiking alike. Michaux sits on the northern terminus of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and though they are scarcely more than foothills here compared to their majesty in more well-known areas like TN, NC, and VA, it is a place of peace and beauty all the same. Like much of the state, it's a young mixed deciduous and coniferous forest, with some open and sparsely wooded prairie/meadow sections.

    • Avery M.The Dyrt Pro User
      Jun. 1, 2018

      Ferryboat Campsites

      Great little site with lots of seasonal residents.

      This is a wonderful little campsite primarily catering the seasonal RVer. With that said they do have primitive camping spots next to the putt putt course and water only tent sits at the upper feild. There are also water/electric sites in a loop behind the honeymooner cabins, and they have teh best shade and set up for hammock camping.

      The ferry here is real, and has been in operation for the last 100+ years

      There is a small goat petting zoo, with very friendly pigmy goats and the camp is extremely pet friendly as long as they are on a leash.

      There is the typical camp store, and in addition there is the icecream store next to the river. Across the street is a local winery with the best views of the river around.

      The campsite fills quickly on the weekends, kayakers and fishers, and motorboats use this as the weekend home and mini family vacation spots.

      The showers are located in the RV section of the campground, so you will have to walk a bit if you are tent camping.

      There are horse stable available as well on site.

    • R
      Oct. 31, 2020

      Artillery Ridge Campground

      Pretty much on the battlefield

      We stayed at this campground during the COVID pandemic so not much was open at the campground. But from the looks of it they have a small mini golf area, nice size basketball court and a good size building for activities. This campground has horse stalls and rings if you would like to bring your own horses. There were a few families that brought their horses and they were right across from our site. Kids loved being able to see them and get close and even pet them!

      This campground is minutes from town and is practically on the battlefield.

    • Z
      Jul. 5, 2021

      Artillery Ridge Campground

      Amazing 4th of July Weekend

      The staff are very friendly and helpful. The campground was very well maintained and clean. Bathhouse is updated and clean. The RV sites are gravel and pretty level. Fun filled weekend of activities for the whole family. Close to historic Gettysburg battleground. Fantastic horse rescue on the campground. You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback. Nice catch and release pond in campground. Will definitely be returning.

    • Dave G.
      Sep. 24, 2017

      Gettysburg Campground

      Quiet, Plentiful, Not Cheap

      This was our third stay here on our somewhat annual family meetup in Gettysburg. I always appreciate the near solitude experience of this campground as 90% of the sites are RV sites, that are kept away from the tenting area. The tenting area is calm and has a creek right next to it to listen to in the evening and morning. One of the drawbacks of this campground is that a lot of the trees are black walnut trees and the squirrels do not shy away from dropping the walnuts like bombs on your head, car, or table when you're preparing breakfast.

      Gear Review: I won a pair of Treadagain sandals for one of my last campground reviews and this was the first camping trip that I took with them. When I initially bought them, they gave me an abrasion cut and I contemplated sending them back, but after wearing them more, they became more comfortable and I have found them to be ideal for walking around in all day since they have thick bottoms.

    • Casey L.
      Aug. 17, 2021

      Colonel Denning State Park Campground

      Favorite Park of the Season

      Amazing!!! Cleanest facilities of the year so far, amazing large flat sites, dog friendly and great stream right behind the sites. If you stay in lower sites you are near the water and will have to walk up a large hill to get to bathrooms. Trail head close to site and was a very difficult hike with amazing views!! Wide open area to swim that was very clean and well kept. Hope to revisit soon!

    • Jim G.The Dyrt Pro User
      Nov. 9, 2020

      Gettysburg Campground

      Very close to Gettysburg

      If you’re looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn’t it. 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. 

      The amenities of Gettysburg Campground are quite good: full hookups with cable, all working as expected. Level sites, friendly and efficient staff, decently sized sites long enough for my 32’ coach and a toad. The two drawbacks are that the sites are quite packed together and the noise of traffic– at least in the frontmost sites– can get rather loud at night. However, the proximity to Gettysburg National Park can’t be beat.

    Guide to Bendersville

    Michaux State Forest provides tent, RV, and equestrian camping options within its 85,000 acres of forested land. Located at an elevation between 750 and 2,100 feet in Adams County, this area experiences cold winters with occasional heavy snowfall and mild summers averaging 80-85°F. The forest's extensive trail network connects to the Appalachian Trail and several mountain bike routes through diverse terrain.

    What to do

    Hiking at Colonel Denning State Park: Access the challenging 6-mile round-trip Flat Rock Trail with 1,200 feet of elevation gain. "We made the trek up the Flat Rock Trail to the overlook. A six mile round trip with a 1200 ft climb. Spectacular views," writes Nate & Erika L. The park offers multiple well-maintained trails of varying difficulties.

    Winter camping in Michaux: Experience the forest in its quiet season with fewer visitors. "Every January for the last few years some friends and I have gone and camped along the Appalachian Trail. You can park at Pine Grove State Park and then hike your way into locations or park at other trail heads," notes John S. from Michaux State Forest.

    Historical exploration at Gettysburg: Visit the nearby battlefields for day trips from forest camping. "The campground is only a mile and a half from town which was awesome and direct access to battlefield trails right there," reports Peter K. about Artillery Ridge Campground, making it convenient for history enthusiasts camping near Bendersville.

    What campers like

    Clean facilities and accessible stream: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained bathhouses. "Cleanest facilities of the year so far, amazing large flat sites, dog friendly and great stream right behind the sites," reports Casey L. about Colonel Denning State Park Campground.

    Fire rings and picnic areas: Most designated sites include fire rings with seasonal restrictions. "We stayed in site 28 which was a walk-in site, this was perfect for us since we wanted to be further away from people and the light from the bathroom/shower facility," explains Tiff T., highlighting the availability of more secluded options.

    Trail access from campsites: Many appreciate direct access to trails from camping areas. "We love how large site 15 is and that it is near the trail head," notes Casey L., referencing Colonel Denning's convenient layout that allows campers to start hiking without driving.

    What you should know

    Cell service variability: Coverage changes dramatically throughout the region. "AT&T cell reception at our site was hit or miss, but good in the rest of the campground," reports Dave B. from Artillery Ridge Campground.

    Seasonal restrictions and permit requirements: Free permits are required for motorized camping. "Camping is free in several areas throughout Michaux State Forest (as well as other PA State Forests), BUT you usually need to have a camping permit (also free) and you can only stay in designated campsites," explains Jen S.

    Horse camping considerations at Teaberry: The parking area accommodates trailers but has limited amenities. "It was a very large gravel lot with 5 sites along one side, pretty well spaced. The campsites were pretty, parking on the edge of the sites in the parking lot felt a lot like just being in a parking lot with a view of trees on one side," notes j A. about Teaberry Parking Area Campsites.

    Tips for camping with families

    Swimming options: Some parks offer swimming facilities for children. "They offer a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones! There is also a splash pad!" shares Amanda H. about Little Buffalo State Park Campground.

    Ranger programs: Take advantage of educational opportunities. "The park rangers had an owl program on Friday night and ended up calling in several screech owls. Very cool to hear their eerie cries in the woods," reports Nate & Erika L.

    Proximity to amenities: Consider campgrounds closer to town for family convenience. "Very fun family friendly getaway for the weekend. Close to Gettysburg Battleground," notes Matthew K. from Gettysburg Campground, which offers more developed facilities than forest camping.

    Tips from RVers

    Site selection at equestrian areas: Choose sites carefully at horse camping locations. "If you stay in lower sites you are near the water and will have to walk up a large hill to get to bathrooms," advises Casey L., noting the tradeoff between water proximity and bathroom access.

    Space limitations: Some campgrounds have tight spacing for RVs. "We have a small 19" travel trailer which was almost impossible to park due to very tight sites. Sites are almost on top of each other," warns Shirley M.

    Water access for horses: No drinking water is available at horse camping areas, so bring sufficient water for your animals. Seasonal equestrian sites require planning ahead for water needs, especially during hot summer months when horses require more hydration.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Bendersville, PA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Bendersville, PA is Gettysburg Campground with a 4-star rating from 28 reviews.

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