Horseback riding trails extend throughout the wooded areas surrounding Blue Marsh Lake, offering riders access to diverse terrain across several conservation areas. The region features rolling hills with elevation changes between 290 and 520 feet, creating varied trail experiences for equestrian campers. Spring and fall typically offer the most favorable riding conditions with moderate temperatures and less humidity than summer months.
What to Do
Fishing at multiple lakes: French Creek State Park maintains two fishing destinations, Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake, stocked with "northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish." Ice fishing is permitted when conditions allow.
Explore historic sites: Within easy driving distance of Hibernia County Park, visitors can explore "Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake" along with historical structures. As one camper notes: "There is an old mansion that gives tours on weekends."
Trail riding with water crossings: The extensive trail network at Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area connects to Pennsylvania riding areas, allowing riders to access "water crossings [that provide] natural watering opportunities for horses during rides."
Frisbee golf in the woods: French Creek State Park offers a challenging course where "the trees definitely make it harder!" The wooded setting creates natural obstacles requiring precise throws.
What Campers Like
Private, wooded sites: French Creek State Park campers appreciate the natural separation between sites. One visitor noted: "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other."
Budget-friendly options: Hibernia County Park offers economical camping with "inexpensive $15 a night, but you only get picnic table and fire ring. No hook ups." The park also features a "great children's pond for 12 and under" providing affordable family recreation.
Clean facilities: Starlite Camping Resort maintains high standards according to campers: "The facilities are spotless and the campground is maintained to the highest standards I have seen." The campground offers "amenities such as a community pool, general store, snack bar, playground area, toilets, indoor shower stalls."
Year-round accessibility: Several campgrounds in the region operate through winter months. A December visitor to French Creek State Park shared: "Showers and bathrooms were great! If you're traveling through, there are many places to eat nearby."
What You Should Know
Trail closures during wet conditions: Horse trails around Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area may close seasonally "during wet conditions to prevent erosion." Riders should check trail status before planning extended trips.
Varying bathroom facilities: Campgrounds in the region offer different levels of bathroom access. At Hibernia County Park, "there are only pit toilets in Fiddler's loop, however there is a bathroom with running water, flush toilets and electric outlets (no shower) within walking distance of the loop."
Limited hookups at some parks: Be prepared for minimal services at certain locations. Hibernia County Park has "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."
Alcohol restrictions: Several state-managed properties prohibit alcohol consumption. As one Hibernia County Park visitor notes: "County park so no booze but camp sites are under trees."
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for playgrounds: Multiple recreation areas feature child-friendly amenities. At French Creek State Park, families appreciate "at least two playgrounds (perfect for our kids), the bathrooms were well maintained."
Consider lake activities: Tuscarora State Park offers family-friendly water recreation options. One visitor mentions: "Beautiful lake surrounded by trails and includes beach area and playground."
Check site spacing: When camping with children, some areas provide more room for play. At Starlite Camping Resort, "the individual sites are very level to park the camper with almost no blocks needed... the sites felt very secluded."
Reservations recommended: Popular family campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. As one French Creek State Park visitor shares: "We were able to book our sites online which was also a nice feature. The website is very easy to use."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: French Creek State Park provides paved areas at campsites. A visitor explains: "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze... If you have a large camper or 5th wheel you may need to double check what sites can accommodate your RV."
Dump station availability: Plan for waste disposal needs. Hibernia County Park has "NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee, otherwise, you'll have to look for a truck stop on the way home."
Electric access options: Check for appropriate hookups based on your equipment. Haldeman Campground offers various electrical connections including "fifty-amp hookups" and "thirty-amp hookups" depending on the site.
Hill navigation: Some campgrounds require additional power for access. At Starlite Camping Resort, visitors note: "If you're hauling a big camper you'll need power for the hills... Yes, it is quite hilly throughout the campground, but the individual sites are very level to park the camper with almost no blocks needed."
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