Horseback riders near Center Valley, Pennsylvania can access trails and camping within a 35-mile radius. The region sits at approximately 400 feet above sea level in the Lehigh Valley, with terrain ranging from rolling hills to more rugged elevation changes that challenge both horse and rider. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing while summer months remain warm and humid, requiring different preparation for overnight camping trips.
What to do
Trail riding at Spruce Run Recreation Area: Located about 30 miles from Center Valley, this reservoir offers scenic riding opportunities. "There are a decent amount of trails, some of which allow equestrian use alongside hikers. The campground has two lakes, Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake that you can fish at, kayak, canoe or just relax by," notes a visitor to Spruce Run Recreation Area.
Explore wooded terrain: The region offers forested trails with varying difficulty levels. At Mountainview Campground, a camper reported: "We set up camp and went for a little walk around to explore a bit. There were some open fields, some hunting trails with tree stands, and some remains of old structure foundations, chimneys, and farm equipment."
Fish mountain streams: Several campgrounds offer fishing opportunities within riding distance. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish. Ice fishing is also allowed at both lakes and the ice thickness is monitored," according to a camper at Spruce Run.
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: Many horse owners appreciate room to spread out. One camper at Tuscarora State Park Campground observed: "We stayed at one of the primitive sites. Very clean and quiet. Bath stalls and showers are basic but clean. Great spot for stargazing. Owners are very nice."
Wildlife encounters: The region offers opportunities to observe animals during trail rides. A visitor to Mountainview Campground noted: "Only shortly after we settled into our tent did we hear foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise! It was just so awesome to hear the sounds of wildlife all around you."
Water features: Multiple waterways provide cooling options for horses after rides. "Campsites are either in thick, wooded areas, or in open fields. Close to the Delaware River, Spruce Run Reservoir, and Round Valley Reservoir," mentions a camper describing the area around Mountainview Campground.
What you should know
Limited dedicated equestrian facilities: Most campgrounds near Center Valley accommodate horses but with restrictions. At Hibernia County Park, a visitor noted: "A nice primitive campground - good for a quick trip away. The campground is a county run one that works on a first come first serve basis, which is fine if there are others close by."
Challenging terrain for horse trailers: Some campgrounds have access limitations. "If you have a large camper or 5th wheel you may need to double check what sites can accommodate your RV to ensure you have enough room," cautions a camper at Hibernia County Park.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts trail conditions significantly. "We have stayed at French Creek in the past however, we have never stayed in Loop C before. This is the only loop that allows pets," explains a camper at French Creek State Park Campground, highlighting the importance of checking specific loop regulations for animals.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access for younger riders: Kids need activities between trail rides. A visitor to French Creek State Park Campground shared: "There is a very nice playground situated conveniently between the loops of the campground. It had some slides, a bridge, lots of monkey bars, ladders to climb on and the best feature was the zip line."
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer learning experiences about local wildlife and history. "Close by there is Hopewell National Furnace and St. Peter's Village with shops and restaurants and hiking trails as well," notes a camper at French Creek State Park Campground.
Swimming options after riding: Cooling off is important after dusty trail rides. "The sites were super spacious and private. There was enough room for a full overlanding setup, three vehicles, a hammock, two dogs and a two person tent with plenty of room to spare," reports a visitor to Tuscarora State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups at equestrian-friendly sites: Plan for self-sufficiency. At Starlite Camping Resort, a camper observed: "We had two sites this trip with water and electric, but they do have quite a few full hook-up sites. Overall the sites were large, with trees between, providing additional privacy."
Trailer positioning challenges: Maneuvering horse trailers requires planning. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers," explains a visitor to French Creek State Park Campground.
Water access for horses: Finding reliable water sources is critical. "There was a spigot for water at the next site over from us, so we didn't have to walk far to get fresh water," notes a camper at French Creek, though bringing additional containers is recommended for watering horses.
Ranger
