Equestrian camping areas around Carbondale, Pennsylvania allow riders to access forest trails through the Pocono Mountains' rugged terrain. The region sits at elevations between 1,300-2,100 feet, creating a moderate climate with occasional overnight frost even in summer months. Designated horse camping facilities typically offer larger sites designed for trailers, with trail access directly from camp.
What to do
Trail riding through state forests: Lower Lake Campground Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area provides direct access to over 50 miles of trails. "Always a good trip. We have camped here in tents and with our teardrop trailer. All of our experiences have been good," notes David S. The equestrian area connects to wider trail networks throughout Promised Land State Park.
Fishing in local lakes: Keen Lake Resort Campground offers fishing opportunities for families. "The kids caught multiple sunnies and even a small perch," reports Shannon C. The campground provides boat rentals for accessing deeper water, with catch-and-release regulations for most species.
Hiking nature trails: Multiple trail systems connect the horse campgrounds near Carbondale to scenic viewpoints. The Conservation Walk at Pickerel Point Campground is particularly notable. "The Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked," according to Alaina Z. Most trails feature moderate terrain suitable for day hikes.
What campers like
Spacious sites for equipment: Equestrian camping sites near Carbondale provide extra room for horse trailers and gear. "Our site was probably one of the worst in the place but we were able to scope out others that we would prefer for our next visit," shares Emily Z. about Keen Lake Resort. Sites typically accommodate standard horse trailers with living quarters.
Clean facilities: Lackawanna State Park Campground maintains well-kept shower facilities even during busy periods. "Camp host is always most helpful and the park is always clean and well maintained. Great pool, lake, hiking etc.," writes William R. Most equestrian campgrounds feature restrooms within walking distance of horse sites.
Seasonal water features: Multiple campers note the clear water quality in area lakes. "The lake is crystal clear and the beach is spotless. You absolutely have to bring a kayak/inflatable boat, but if you don't own one, don't worry, you can rent one," Debbie W. explains about Pickerel Point. Water access from most horse campgrounds requires a short trailer ride.
What you should know
Terrain challenges: Many trails near Carbondale feature rocky sections requiring careful navigation with horses. "Chunky bluestone gravel on the sites, so bring a sleeping pad," warns Alaina Z. about Pickerel Point. Trail conditions change seasonally, with spring often bringing muddy sections.
Reservation requirements: All designated equestrian camping requires advance booking. Most campgrounds open reservations 6-12 months in advance with limited availability during summer weekends and fall foliage season.
Weather variability: The Pocono elevation creates temperature swings. At Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area, one camper notes, "First trip of the season and we were amazed. Not crowded this time of year, serene, and perfect weather." Spring conditions often include overnight temperatures below 40°F.
Animal regulations: Horse campers must bring containment systems as permanent corrals aren't provided at most sites. Some areas restrict grazing, requiring packed feed. Water access for horses varies by campground, with most requiring campers to transport water from spigots to horse areas.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Family-friendly campgrounds offer scheduled programs. "They have activity coordinators that make sure there is something to do for all ages every hour of the day!" shares Mike H. about Keen Lake Resort. Most activities run May through September with reduced schedules in shoulder seasons.
Multi-use trails: Select trails designated for both hiking and horses when camping with mixed groups. "There is an environmental education center with programs, there is fishing and boating, and an amazing network of hiking and horse riding trails," explains Janet R. about Lackawanna State Park.
Lakeside sites: For families with both horse riders and non-riders, Stokes State Forest offers versatile options. "We selected site T219. It was a solid choice: private but close to the toilet and water. Some sites located around the opposite side of the ring back up to a babbling brook," reports one camper. Mixed-use sites accommodate both horses and standard camping equipment.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RVers with horse trailers should verify power capabilities before booking. "We had full hookups (20/30/50 amp, water & sewer). There's no cable but we were able to pickup about 6 channels with our digital antenna," reports Debbie W. about camping at Promised Land State Park.
Site selection: When bringing horses and RVs, prioritize sites with level areas for both. "Our site had kayak access and that was a real bonus. It is a spotless facility," notes Aida K. Sites with back-in parking for horse trailers generally offer more room than pull-through options at most campgrounds.
Ranger
