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Horse camping options near Big Cove Tannery, Pennsylvania are extremely limited, with no dedicated equestrian campgrounds in the immediate area. Based on the available data, none of the campgrounds within reasonable proximity offer horse-specific amenities such as corrals, hitching posts, or designated equestrian campsites. Michaux State Forest, located approximately 35 miles from Big Cove Tannery, allows primitive camping but does not feature specialized horse facilities. The forest's extensive trail system permits horseback riding on designated paths, though campers must bring their own containment systems for their animals. The gravel parking areas at Teaberry and Peggy's Hill within Michaux accommodate horse trailers, though space limitations may apply during peak seasons.
Riders seeking horse-friendly accommodations must travel further from Big Cove Tannery to find suitable options. The surrounding Pennsylvania state forests sometimes permit horses at primitive campsites with proper permits, but require self-sufficiency for equine care. Trail access varies seasonally, with some routes closed during hunting seasons or wet conditions. Horse owners must supply their own water, feed storage, and waste management solutions when camping in these areas. Primitive horse camping typically requires securing permits in advance through the Pennsylvania DCNR, with specific regulations regarding manure disposal and overnight tethering. Campers report varying experiences with trail conditions depending on recent maintenance and seasonal factors, making advance research essential before planning equestrian camping trips to this region.
"Campground reeks of horse manure 24/7. Was pleased by the quiet despite size of campground and proximity to highway. Sites not overly large or private."
"The morning drive started early, had several stops and starts, and I was once again glad that my big dog was along for the ride."
from $20 - $110 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $100 - $150 / night
Check Availability"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."
"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."
"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
Check Availability"Several rustic campsites with a large lake for the kids, and miles of off road trails for atvs, jeeps, and dirtbikes."
"The road is gravel and could use some work, I’d recommend 4x4 drive. We really enjoyed it and will go back. The reason for 4 stars instead of 5, water situation and the roads could use some work."
"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
Check Availabilityfrom $10 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $10 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $10 / night
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TravelerCampground reeks of horse manure 24/7. Was pleased by the quiet despite size of campground and proximity to highway. Sites not overly large or private. Has wood vending machine at entrance for firewood. Hiking loop around lake is beautiful. Jean bonnet tavern nearby recommended for a great meal in a historic setting.
LegendThis 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.
GuideSpent 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.
TravelerSome 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.
GuideWe 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.
GuideThe 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.
TravelerPros: Very friendly and accommodating staff. We camped in October and we had pretty much the entire place to ourselves. Beautiful lake and overall picturesque setting. Free range, friendly goats wander around, which is kinda fun. Cons: WiFi signal weak and intermittent, even close to router. We camped in sites with hookups near office and entrance and the toilets are really far. The showers are even farther-like a 15-20 minute walk with bad signage directing to. The view from the showers were breathtaking, but the showers themselves left much to be desired. We had told they had just been cleaned, but they were so old and rust stained that it still felt kinda gross. Cobwebs along ceiling, dim lighting and worn paint added to the overall dinginess. There are no hooks to hang a towel and no shower curtain, wall or door so the bench with my clothes and towel got wet as did the floor, so you step out of shower into a puddle.
TravelerI had made plans to stay at SSP-PA as my first stopover spot, post leaving my beach friends on the East Coast. The morning drive started early, had several stops and starts, and I was once again glad that my big dog was along for the ride. Shawnee is a lovely state park and I was really pleased with my brief stay. 'Though we were only sleeping the one night, I found the staff to be pleasant and the site spacious. It might have helped that the doggo and I were about the only ones in our campground loop, aside from the campground hosts but the area felt well-maintained and well-proportioned. We had a good night's rest, after enjoying a post-dinner campfire and getting to breathe in the fresh, woodsy air. While sitting fireside, I got to enjoy the local wildlife, from birds to young deer, around the edges of my campsite. The campground restroom was clean and a fair size. I would definitely recommend it and I will certainly look into another reservation, the next time I roadtrip through Pennsylvania.
GuideThis 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.
Horse campgrounds near Big Cove Tannery, Pennsylvania generally require self-sufficiency for riders. While dedicated facilities are scarce, the surrounding state forests provide options for equestrian access. The region sits within the Ridge and Valley physiographic province with elevations ranging from 600 to 2,000 feet, creating varied terrain for riders throughout the Appalachian foothills.
Trail riding in Michaux State Forest: Located about 35 miles from Big Cove Tannery, Michaux State Forest offers extensive riding trails through mixed deciduous and coniferous forest. "Like much of the state, it's a young mixed deciduous and coniferous forest, with some open and sparsely wooded prairie/meadow sections," notes camper Bridget D. Trail conditions vary seasonally.
Target shooting at The Cove: The Cove Campground in Gore, Virginia includes an outdoor shooting range about 50 miles southwest of Big Cove Tannery. "This Campground had everything I wanted. Shooting range, ATV trails, fishing, hiking and great campsites," writes Ben M. The range provides a unique activity option for equestrians during non-riding days.
Hiking to viewpoints: For riders seeking dismounted activities, trail systems offer panoramic views. "We did see a boat launch and what appeared to be kayak rentals, but we were there out of season," observed Lee D. at Shawnee State Park Campground, demonstrating the seasonal nature of regional recreation options.
Water features for horses: Streams and ponds provide natural water sources at certain sites. At Colonel Denning State Park, Casey L. notes, "We love the dog friendly sites near the water, the kids and pups play all day!" While not specifically designed for horses, these water features can serve equestrian needs with proper management.
Large, level sites: Colonel Denning State Park Campground offers spacious areas that accommodate trailers. "Amazing large flat sites, dog friendly and great stream right behind the sites," reports Casey L. These flat areas provide functional space for horse trailers and setup.
Primitive camping privacy: The rustic nature of sites appeals to many equestrians seeking seclusion. "We went here just before the busy season and only had to share the camp loop with one other group. Very nice and peaceful and staff were extremely friendly and helpful," shares Andy S. about The Cove Campground, highlighting the advantage of off-peak visits.
Permit requirements: State forest camping requires advance planning. "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," explains Bridget D. at Michaux State Forest, outlining the various options available to campers.
Variable site conditions: Campsite quality differs significantly across locations. At Teaberry Parking Area Campsites, one camper reported: "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."
Seasonal limitations: Weather impacts horse camping opportunities. "Fires are not permitted at all from March 1 to May 25, and are also banned when fire danger is deemed too high," warns Bridget D. about Michaux State Forest. This restriction affects cooking and comfort at equestrian sites during specific periods.
Select sites with amenities: Facilities vary widely between primitive and established campgrounds. "The camp store has everything that any camper could need, and the game room is really nice. The whole campground was clean and well kept," shares Dave B. about Artillery Ridge Campground in Gettysburg.
Consider water activities: Lakes and streams provide recreation beyond riding. "The lake and the trails around it are beautiful. Great swimming and kayaking/small boating," writes Casey S. about Shawnee State Park Campground, offering alternatives when horses need rest days.
Wildlife encounters: Unexpected animal interactions occur at certain sites. Karl S. notes about The Cove Campground: "One unique (and awesome) touch: there are goats casually roaming around the campground. It adds a fun, unexpected charm to the place." These encounters can entertain children while parents manage horse care.
Hitching post availability: For equestrians with RVs, specific parking areas accommodate horse trailers. According to Bridget D., "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."
Site selection strategy: RVers should research specific sites before arrival. "I heeded the advice of other reviewers warning that many sites were not level and did not reserve ahead of time. A Monday in mid-October had many open sites," shares Lee D. about Shawnee State Park Campground, emphasizing the importance of timing visits strategically.
Utility limitations: Expect minimal services at primitive horse camping locations. "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," clarifies Bridget D., highlighting the distinction between state forest and state park facilities for those requiring hookups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Big Cove Tannery, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Big Cove Tannery, PA is Shawnee State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 27 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Big Cove Tannery, PA?
TheDyrt.com has all 10 equestrian camping locations near Big Cove Tannery, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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