Equestrian camping options near Highfield-Cascade, Maryland include limited facilities in state forests and parks within a 30-mile radius. The region features rolling Appalachian foothills with elevations ranging from 800-1,400 feet and mixed deciduous forests. Horse campers should note that while some areas permit horses, most don't offer dedicated equestrian amenities such as corrals or wash stations.
What to do
Trail riding at Michaux State Forest: Horses are permitted on most forest roads and designated trails. One experienced rider notes, "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."
Historical battlefield tours: Artillery Ridge Campground offers horseback tours of Gettysburg battlefield. A camper shared, "You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback. Nice catch and release pond in campground." The tours provide unique perspectives of the historic landscape not accessible by vehicle.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple waterways throughout the region offer fishing spots. At Colonel Denning State Park, campers report "good fishing" in the park's stream. Sites near water are popular among equestrians who want easy access for both horses and humans.
What campers like
Primitive camping with horses: Michaux State Forest permits horses at designated motorized parking lot sites. A camper explains, "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."
Direct trail access: Horse owners appreciate sites with immediate trail connections. At Peggy's Hill and Teaberry Parking Area in Michaux State Forest, riders can access trails without trailering. One user noted about Teaberry, "It was a very large gravel lot with 5 sites along one side, pretty well spaced."
Natural water sources: Creeks and streams provide water for horses (requiring treatment) and scenic camping. A Colonel Denning visitor mentioned, "We love the dog friendly sites near the water, the kids and pups play all day!" These water features are useful for cooling horses after rides.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Michaux State Forest requires free permits for designated motorized sites. A camper clarifies, "Designated motorized sites, which require a free online permit and are open April 2 until the 3rd Sunday after Thanksgiving."
Black walnut tree caution: Multiple forests in the area contain black walnut trees, which are toxic to horses. At Gettysburg Campground, a camper warned about "the occasional drop of nuts from squirrels" and another mentioned "a lot of the trees are black walnut trees and the squirrels do not shy away from dropping the walnuts like bombs."
Limited facilities: Most horse-accessible camping areas lack amenities. About Teaberry sites, a visitor noted, "Wouldn't want to have Site A" due to traffic from people turning around. Bring containment systems, water, and manure management tools.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with activities: Gettysburg Campground offers family-friendly amenities. A camper shares, "It is a wonderful place to have Kids. tons of things for them to do. we were in tent sites which felt bigger than most and were right by river."
Historical learning opportunities: The region's rich history provides educational experiences. At Artillery Ridge, a family reported, "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."
Swimming options: Several parks offer swimming areas when not riding. A Colonel Denning visitor described, "Wide open area to swim that was very clean and well kept." These provide cooling recreation during hot summer months.
Tips from RVers
Limited horse-friendly RV options: Few campgrounds combine full RV hookups with horse facilities. One camper at Teaberry noted, "It might be a better site for tent camping than an RV. It was a very large gravel lot with 5 sites along one side, pretty well spaced."
Consider size limitations: Many forest roads have restrictions. A Michaux camper advised, "None of the sites available in Michaux have electric or water hookups" and noted most are not big-rig friendly. Smaller trailers and rigs navigate forest roads more easily.
Proximity to necessities: Camp Winery offers an alternative base for day rides. A visitor mentioned it's "Very beautiful spot, did some tent camping. Close to many cool things in the area too." Located south of Highfield-Cascade, it provides access to different trail systems.
