Equestrian camping near Carlisle, Pennsylvania offers terrain between 400-2100 feet elevation within the Ridge and Valley province of the Appalachian Mountains. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, with cooler mountain temperatures dropping 5-10 degrees compared to the valley. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing, with snow possible from November through March.
What to do
Horseback riding trails with diverse terrain: Teaberry Parking Area Campsites in Michaux State Forest offers access to multiple trail systems suitable for various skill levels. "The campsites were pretty, parking on the edge of the sites in the parking lot felt a lot like just being in a parking lot with a view of trees on one side," notes a camper who appreciated the spacious layout despite some traffic from vehicles turning around.
Historic site exploration: From Artillery Ridge Campground, riders can access Gettysburg's battlefields directly. "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts," explains one visitor who valued the historical connection.
Creek and river activities: After a day of riding, campers can cool off at Ferryboat Campsites along the Susquehanna River. "The weather was hot so lots of tubing and fishing and kayaking in the river — we loved to sit out and watch the water go by," shares a camper who enjoyed the riverfront location, providing a relaxing option when not in the saddle.
What campers like
Exceptionally spacious sites: At Colonel Denning State Park Campground, riders find comfortable sites for both humans and horses. "Amazing large flat sites, dog friendly and great stream right behind the sites," shares one camper. "The tent pads are level and smooth" notes another who found the camping areas well-designed for overnight stays.
Privacy in smaller campgrounds: Many equestrians prefer quieter environments for their horses. "This is a smaller SP campground, just one loop and a few sites along a creek. The camp host was knowledgeable and friendly," writes a camper who appreciated the secluded atmosphere, making it suitable for horses that might be nervous around crowds.
Natural water sources: Beyond human amenities, horse owners value accessible water. At Little Buffalo State Park Campground, campers note "the lake is awesome to relax on" and there are "tons of fishing, grills to cook on but bring ur own charcoal, giant lake to fish and boat on." These water features provide options for watering horses on hot days when properly accessed.
What you should know
Permits required: Free camping permits are necessary for overnight stays in state forests. "Camping is free in several areas throughout Michaux State Forest (as well as other PA State Forests), BUT you usually need to have a camping permit (also free) and you can only stay in designated campsites," explains a camper who navigated the reservation system.
Seasonal considerations: The camping season varies by location. Most state parks operate from April through November, while some forest sites remain open year-round. "Some reviewers have confused nearby State Parks with the actual State Forest, resulting in inaccurate information...Designated motorized sites require a free online permit and are open April 2 until the 3rd Sunday after Thanksgiving," clarifies one regular visitor.
Variable facilities: Amenities differ significantly between parks and forests. "None of the sites available in Michaux have electric or water hookups...drinking water available at sites (some have a creek or springhouse, which must be treated first)...restrooms (a very small number of sites have outhouses)," explains a frequent visitor describing the primitive conditions often encountered.
Tips for camping with families
Choose park campgrounds for amenities: State parks offer more creature comforts than forest sites. "The pool here is top notch and it's good for fishing but the hiking isn't super great. We did have a nice bat spotting walk with a Ranger when we were there and there's an interesting historic mill you can tour," shares a visitor describing activities beyond horseback riding.
Look for educational programs: Rangers often lead family activities. "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," reports a family who enjoyed the evening program at Colonel Denning.
Consider site location carefully: When traveling with children and horses, site placement matters. "If you stay in lower sites you are near the water and will have to walk up a large hill to get to bathrooms," advises a camper, an important consideration for families managing both children and horses during overnight stays.
Tips from RVers
Check road conditions for trailer access: Forest roads can challenge larger rigs. "This is a wonderful little campsite primarily catering the seasonal RVer. With that said they do have primitive camping spots next to the putt putt course and water only tent sites at the upper field," notes a camper about layout options for different vehicle sizes at one location.
Plan for hookup limitations: Many equestrian-accessible areas lack full hookups. "If it weren't for [being right on the water] this would not be the campground for us," explains one RVer who prioritized location over amenities, a common tradeoff when camping with horses near trail systems.
Consider designated motorized parking areas: For horse trailers, these sites offer more space. "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," describes a regular forest camper familiar with the specialized facilities.
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