The Lancaster County region offers diverse terrain for equestrian camping with elevations ranging between 400-1,200 feet. Situated at the foothills of South Mountain, horse campgrounds near Windsor, Pennsylvania provide access to wooded trails that connect to larger trail systems. Weather varies seasonally with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and spring/fall bringing cooler temperatures ideal for trail riding.
What to Do
Trail riding at Civil War battlefields: Connect directly to historical trails from Artillery Ridge Campground where the trailhead begins practically at the entrance. "My family and I stayed at this campground in late April. We had a site right next to the trail going to Stangler Farm. The camp store has everything that any camper could need," shares Dave B.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer fishing ponds or lake access for anglers. At Ferryboat Campsites, "My husband caught a fish first day in the pond behind our site," according to Justine I. The campground is situated along the Susquehanna River with multiple fishing spots.
Historical site exploration: Learn about regional history at nearby attractions. French Creek State Park maintains historical structures within the park boundaries. "There is an interesting historic mill you can tour. The camping area was pretty hilly and not super large but it gets the job done," notes Christopher E., mentioning unique historical features not found at other campgrounds.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: French Creek State Park Campground offers natural separation between camping areas. "As long as you don't stay right across from the bath houses you will find ample shade at your site. There are so many trees and brush in between most sites you can't even really see your neighbors," explains Jen R.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain their bathhouses and common areas regularly. At Gettysburg Campground, "The bathhouses were just okay. Muddy floors - don't know how often floors are cleaned," mentions Cheryl K., providing honest feedback about maintenance standards.
Quiet atmosphere: Many equestrian campgrounds enforce quiet hours for both riders and horses. "We have been camping at Starlite with Dave and family for 15+ years. The campground is maintained to the highest standards I have seen. There are regular activities for all ages including bingo, crafts and live music," reports Elizabeth L. about Starlite Camping Resort.
What You Should Know
Seasonal considerations: Some facilities close during winter months. Starlite Camping Resort operates from "May 1 to Nov 1" according to their listing information, while others remain open year-round. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! The honor system of payment at the office makes it really easy to come in late and leave early," notes Galit P. about winter camping at French Creek.
Reservation requirements: Many popular horse campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Michaux State Forest has specific permitting processes: "Camping is free in several areas throughout Michaux State Forest, BUT you usually need to have a camping permit (also free) and you can only stay in designated campsites," explains Jen S.
Terrain challenges: Some campgrounds have significant elevation changes. "If you have a large camper or 5th wheel you may need to double check what sites can accommodate your RV to ensure you have enough room," advises Jen R. about French Creek State Park Campground's varying terrain.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playgrounds and activities: Little Buffalo State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "The pool is very nice! They offer a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones! There is also a splash pad! There are 2 slides for fun," shares Amanda H.
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Several campgrounds maintain stocked ponds for young anglers. "Little buffalo has a lot to offer! There is a large lake for fishing! You can rent boats there!" explains Amanda H., highlighting accessible fishing opportunities.
Walking distance amenities: Consider campgrounds with facilities close to camping areas. "Nice for a smaller campground. Only downfall is we have smaller children and we could not bike from the campground to the pool, it was too far and the hill to get back was too big for them to ride up," cautions Paula R. about Little Buffalo State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many equestrian campgrounds have uneven terrain. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers," shares Jen R. about French Creek State Park Campground.
Hookup availability: Hibernia County Park offers limited amenities for larger rigs. "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," advises Jennifer S., providing critical information for self-contained camping.
Access considerations: Some horse-friendly campgrounds have challenging access roads. "This is a great family run campground. The store is nice, bathhouses are clean and private. If you're hauling a big camper you'll need power for the hills," warns Chris G. about Starlite Camping Resort's steep approach roads.