Tiadaghton and Susquehannock State Forests offer equestrian camping options near Cammal, Pennsylvania. Situated in the Pine Creek Valley at approximately 780 feet elevation, this region provides access to over 300 miles of designated horse trails throughout North Central Pennsylvania. Primitive camping areas remain open year-round, though trail conditions vary seasonally with spring mud and winter snow potentially limiting access to certain routes.
What to do
Trail riding excursions: The network of bridle paths around Lyman Run State Park Campground connects to several multi-use trails suited for various skill levels. "There's a lake to do many activities, and a beach there. ATV trails, hiking, beautiful overlooks. No cell service, so you really get to get away from everything," notes Katie S.
Stargazing opportunities: Equestrian campers can combine riding with night sky viewing at several horse-friendly sites. "Lyman Run holds a special place for me. It's nestled within the gold level dark sky area. This means on a clear night and with a waning or new moon, one could see the arm of the Milky Way with millions of stars," reports Bill G.
Fishing access: Many equestrian campgrounds provide direct trail access to fishing locations. At Stony Fork Creek Campground, "the pond offered fishing and pedal boat rentals. We chose this campsite due to its proximity to the Leonard Harrison State Park," mentions MJ B.
What campers like
Peace and quiet: Horse campers appreciate the remote locations that provide separation from crowded areas. At Black Moshannon State Park Campground, "the sites are situated nicely, your neighbors are not 'right there'," according to Sandi G., making it ideal for campers with horses seeking space.
Clean facilities: Even primitive equestrian sites maintain basic standards. "The campground was exceptionally maintained, bathrooms and showers virtually spotless," notes Greg W. about Stony Fork Creek Campground, adding that "all of the roads were paved and sites were very large" - important for horse trailer access.
Water features: Equestrian campers can access natural water sources for horses at designated locations. "Nice campground with quiet 250 acre lake for kayaking. Good birding," says Matthew U. about Black Moshannon, where designated horse watering areas are maintained separately from recreational waters.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian sites near Cammal require advance booking, especially during peak riding seasons. For Big Trail Road Sites, reservations must be made through the Pennsylvania DCNR reservation system, with spots filling quickly during fall foliage season.
Limited services: Horse-friendly campgrounds often provide basic amenities only. "No cell service and WiFi isn't reliable if that's what you need or are looking for," explains Brandon W. about Stony Fork Creek Campground, which is typical for equestrian camping areas.
Trailer access considerations: Access roads to horse campgrounds vary in quality and width. "We suggest avoiding heading south from I80 on Casanova road," advises Sandi G., as narrow forest roads can challenge larger horse trailers.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: After trail rides, families appreciate cooling off options. At Lebo Road Site, nearby Pine Creek offers wading areas during summer months when water levels permit, while Lyman Run provides "a beach area by lake, fishing and then the stars!" according to Peggy S.
Kid-friendly activities: Several equestrian campgrounds offer additional recreation for children. "The pool was nice and the rec center had a lot of activities for kids," reports MJ B. about facilities at Stony Fork Creek that complement horseback riding opportunities.
Nature exploration: Children can engage with local ecology while adults manage horses. "Little creek runs beside it for kids to play and explore," Jennifer P. notes about Lyman Run, where families can combine riding with environmental learning.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers with horse trailers should research site dimensions carefully. "We were able to choose a location that worked best for us. The area we selected was not busy," shares MJ B., noting that "the ground was grassy and level" at Narrow Gage Road Site, which accommodates both RVs and horse trailers.
Seasonal considerations: Horse camping conditions vary dramatically by season. "We stayed here one night during a motorcycle trip," explains Danielle W., adding that access roads to equestrian sites can become challenging after heavy rainfall, requiring careful planning for RVers with horse trailers.
Utility limitations: Most horse campgrounds offer minimal hookups. "The sites are affordable, spacious, and they allow dogs," states Jennifer P., though electric and water connections may be limited at designated equestrian sites compared to standard RV campgrounds.
Traveler
