Equestrian camping near Burnham, Pennsylvania provides access to the forested ridges and valleys of central Pennsylvania, with elevations ranging from 400 to 2,000 feet across the region. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winters often dropping below freezing. The region's network of state forests spans over 200,000 acres, creating extensive options for riders seeking primitive camping experiences.
What to do
Hike challenging trails: Colonel Denning State Park Campground offers access to the Flat Rock Trail, a six-mile round trip with a 1,200 ft climb. "A six mile round trip with a 1200 ft climb. Spectacular views," notes Nate & Erika L., who also enjoyed the park's evening programs. "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."
Fishing opportunities: Little Buffalo State Park Campground features a large lake stocked with fish. "Its an amazing little quite camping ground. Super clean. Lots of easy hiking trails and tons of fishing," says Brandon C. The park also offers boat rentals for those wanting to get out on the water.
Wildlife observation: Black Moshannon State Park Campground provides unique wildlife viewing opportunities around its bog-stained waters. "Nice campground with quiet 250 acre lake for kayaking. Good birding," states Matthew U. The distinctive reddish water creates a unique ecosystem, with Travis S. noting: "The Iron Ore mines from the past have left the creek water stained red which is why its called the Red Mo with the locals."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Colonel Denning State Park Campground receives praise for its well-designed camping areas. "Cleanest facilities of the year so far, amazing large flat sites, dog friendly and great stream right behind the sites," reports Casey L., who particularly recommends the lower sites near water, though notes they require "a large hill to get to bathrooms."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained bathhouses and grounds at parks near Burnham. "The showers are located in the RV section of the campground, so you will have to walk a bit if you tent camping," explains Avery M. about Ferryboat Campsites, while also noting the campground's unique features: "The ferry here is real, and has been in operation for the last 100+ years."
Year-round options: Despite seasonal closures at some parks, the area offers camping throughout the year. "Every January for the last few years some friends and I have gone and camped along the Appalachian Trail," shares John S. about Michaux State Forest. "These trips are what gave me the experience, and confidence, to go from tent camping to tarp camping."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Different forests have varying permit systems for camping. Jen S. explains that Michaux State Forest offers free camping, "BUT you usually need to have a camping permit (also free) and you can only stay in designated campsites. To obtain a permit, find out where the designated sites are, and/or find out what designated campsites are available, you have to contact the State Forest District Office."
Horse-friendly areas: For horseback riders, some areas provide basic accommodations. Ferryboat Campsites offers "horse stable available as well on site," according to Avery M., making it one of the few locations with dedicated equestrian facilities near Burnham. State forest campgrounds like Rothrock Roadside Campsites typically allow horses at designated sites but require bringing your own containment equipment.
Cell service variability: Connectivity varies widely across the region. Scott I. reports that at Rothrock Roadside Campsites, "Cell coverage was fine on Xfinity Mobile (Verizon)," but many more remote areas have limited or no service, especially in the valleys between ridges.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Little Buffalo State Park Campground offers an excellent swimming facility. "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., though noting, "you have to pay to get in the pool, yes even if you are camping!!!"
Kid-friendly trails: State parks offer hiking options suitable for various age groups. Dawn N. mentions that Little Buffalo has "hiking for all experience levels," making it accessible for families with children of different abilities.
Accessibility considerations: Paula R. points out an important consideration for families with young children at Little Buffalo: "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."
Tips from RVers
Site layout challenges: Some campgrounds have awkward site configurations for RVs. Shirley M. notes at Colonel Denning: "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." Consider requesting specific sites when booking.
Seasonal access: Not all roads to campgrounds are maintained year-round. Scott I. warns about Rothrock Roadside Campsites: "This site is accessed by driving up a bit of a winding dirt road up the mountain. It's easy enough during the summer, though the road is narrow and you've got some sharp bends depending on which way you come from. This road is not safe to access in the winter in my opinion."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited in the region. Ferryboat Campsites offers "full hookups for 2 nights. Site was level and shaded, but very close to neighbors," according to Robin, who also cautions: "Storms with heavy rain in the area made the river rise. We were told the campground is susceptible to flooding, so check the weather when you come!"
Guide
