18 campgrounds with availability this weekend
North Run Equine Camping Area in Moshannon State Forest offers primitive camping designed specifically for horse owners. The campsites accommodate tent camping with room for horse trailers, providing basic amenities including picnic tables and fire rings. The camping area features designated space for horses adjacent to campsites, though no permanent corrals are available. Campers must bring portable corrals or use highlines for their horses. Sites are reservable, pet-friendly, and include fire rings for evening campfires. No drinking water, showers, or toilet facilities are available on site, requiring campers to be self-sufficient with water for both themselves and their horses.
Multiple trails connect directly to the North Run camping area, providing access to the extensive trail network throughout Moshannon State Forest. These trails vary in difficulty, offering options for riders of all experience levels. The forest contains over 190,000 acres with numerous trails suitable for horseback riding, making it possible to enjoy extended rides without covering the same ground twice. Trailer parking accommodates various sizes, with ample room for turning around even larger rigs. Sites remain relatively private with sufficient space between camping spots. Riders appreciate the well-maintained trails that connect to the camping area, allowing for immediate access to riding opportunities without needing to trailer horses to trailheads. The primitive nature of the facilities means visitors should pack in all necessary supplies including water, feed, and waste management tools for their horses.
"Electric motorboats are permitted on Moshannon Lake. Boat rentals are available in season."
"Great hiking and a beautiful lake for kayaking. Site 22 is a full hookup. Utilities worked nicely. However, our picnic table had seen better days. "
Available this weekend
from $20 - $87 / night
from $10 / night
"A standard Ford Explorer handled the drive without trouble, though bringing a trailer would likely only be practical if it is set up for overlanding conditions."
from $10 / night
"A playground is near bathhouse in the campground, along with several hiking trails. The dump station is easily accessible. Firewood is also available for purchase at the campground."
"The driving path is gravel with a steep hill at the end so if you can help it I would avoid sites 32,34,36 as they are VERY difficult to back into with larger rigs."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $22 - $92 / night
from $10 / night
"This site is accessed by driving up a bit of a winding dirt road up the mountain. "
from $10 / night
"Cleanest facilities of the year so far, amazing large flat sites, dog friendly and great stream right behind the sites."
"We stayed in site 28 which was a walk-in site, this was perfect for us since we wanted to be further away from people and the light from the bathroom/shower facility."
Available this weekend
from $24 - $38 / night
from $10 / night
from $10 / night
"With that said they do have primitive camping spots next to the putt putt course and water only tent sits at the upper feild."
"Lots to do very close to water and many things to do in and around camp ground. Stayed for a few days would go back."
from $30 - $100 / night
RangerGreat park, alittle close together than I like. I wish I had picked 1-12 sites by the creek, but I don’t think I had much choice when I booked anyway. Bathrooms were clean. My site was more of an rv and I felt like I was at the neighbors for supper.
RangerBeautiful park, pool and lake. Great for boating and fishing, running or hiking and swimming. In may, it wasn’t busy, but I can imagine it gets packed. I will be back for summer.
GuideSite SS007 sits roughly two miles off pavement along a fairly rough access road. A standard Ford Explorer handled the drive without trouble, though bringing a trailer would likely only be practical if it is set up for overlanding conditions.
The location offers excellent views of the Susquehanna River and exceptionally clear night skies with strong stargazing opportunities. There was no existing fire ring on site, so we built one using nearby stones. The site does not include a picnic table or other amenities, making it a primative experience.
Cell service was limited but usable, averaging about one bar with AT&T and two bars with T-Mobile.
Overall, it is a quiet, scenic roadside site best suited for campers comfortable with minimal facilities and no other people around.
GuideThe weather wasn’t too great, but the campaign joy could not be hampered. We had a great spot along the creek, which was also a short walk from the lake. The bathroom facilities are fantastic nice and clean couldn’t be happier.
TravelerIve camped at Black Moshannon State Park many times both in a tent and our camper. The Park has tent only, electric and full hookup sites. It is well cared for and clean. The bathhouses are nice and well maintained. The Park itself offers a lot to do with fishing. Hiking, the beach, kayak rentals, etc. I've never had a bad time at Black Moshannon and will keep coming back.
TravelerFirst I'll just say that the Rothrock campsites should probably each be listed separately, rather than as a group; they are very spread out throughout the State Forest and each is a different experience. This review will be for site 002 Colerain Road.
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.
The parking is just right off the road, and there's a picnic table and large stone fire ring near the parking. There's a small path further up the hill into the woods where there is a tent pad, another fire ring and another picnic table. There are also a lot of flat spots nearby for additional tents to be set up.
Just behind the upper tent site is the top of the mountain, and the site has their own private overlook to the valley below. The site is pretty remote, though there were vehicles and the occasional biker coming up the road. Traffic may have been busier than usual the weekend we went because there was the Mid Atlantic Overland festival nearby at the same time. At one point a family parked in the campsite's parking to start a walk... (there's a better trailhead up closer to Indian Lookout they should have used).
No hookups, water, bathrooms, etc; its fully primitive camping here. Cell coverage was fine on Xfinity Mobile (Verizon).
These sites used to be totally free but they're now $10 a night. You still need to book a while out if you want to be here on a weekend, especially during the fall when Penn State is playing.
GuideIn the middle of the woods vibe. The sites had good privacy and it was just a pretty area. Neighbors were respectful and relatively quiet.. There was zero cell service at this campground. Bathrooms were clean.
ScoutWe had a great time visiting the park! We stayed in site 28 which was a walk-in site, this was perfect for us since we wanted to be further away from people and the light from the bathroom/shower facility. The site was not far from our parking spot, maybe a hundred yards but there was a slight hill. There are even more isolated campsites further up the hill.
The park itself is definitely on the smaller side but packs in a lot. Lots of great trails and the beach would be great( close due to bacteria overgrowth) the michaux forest is 30 minutes away and has a lot more outdoor activities.
Will stay here again in the future.
TravelerWe camped in on of the cabins overnight on a recent road trip. Cabins are nice and spacious, bath facilities are some of the best I've seen. We didn't;t get to explore since we were traveling, but there's plenty to do in the area.
North Run Equine Camping Area caters specifically to horseback riders in the dense forests of central Pennsylvania. Located at 1,600-1,800 feet elevation within Moshannon State Forest, this specialized camping facility provides direct access to trail networks spanning thousands of acres. The area experiences mild summers with temperatures typically ranging from 65-85°F, while spring and fall offer cooler temperatures ideal for longer trail rides.
Trail riding exploration: Multiple trail systems connect directly from North Run Equine Camping Area, allowing riders to access Moshannon State Forest's extensive network without trailering horses to separate trailheads. The forest contains numerous trails suitable for varying experience levels across its 190,000 acres.
Birdwatching opportunities: Visit Black Moshannon State Park Campground for excellent wildlife observation. "Good birding" can be found around the "quiet 250 acre lake for kayaking," according to Matthew U. The dark-colored water creates a unique ecosystem that attracts diverse bird species.
Historic exploration: Colonel Denning State Park offers interpretive programs highlighting local history. "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 Nate & Erika L. These ranger-led activities provide educational opportunities while enjoying nature.
Privacy between sites: At Rothrock Roadside Campsites, campers appreciate the secluded locations. "The site is pretty remote, though there were vehicles and the occasional biker coming up the road," notes Scott I. about site 002 on Colerain Road, which even features "their own private overlook to the valley below."
Clean facilities: Colonel Denning State Park maintains exceptional bathhouses. One camper stated they were "the absolute cleanest bathrooms we've seen in a state park." Another visitor, Casey L., confirmed this reputation: "Cleanest facilities of the year so far, amazing large flat sites, dog friendly and great stream right behind the sites."
Diverse water activities: Little Buffalo State Park Campground offers excellent aquatic recreation options. "The pool here is top notch and it's good for fishing," reports Christopher E. Another camper mentions "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!"
Primitive facilities: Most equestrian campgrounds near Centre Hall, Pennsylvania lack modern amenities. North Run Equine Camping Area has no drinking water, showers, or toilet facilities on site. Campers must bring their own water for both themselves and their horses.
Horse containment requirements: At Ferryboat Campsites, livestock accommodations vary. While this campsite offers "horse stable available as well on site," according to Avery M., North Run requires campers to bring portable corrals or use highlines for their horses as no permanent corrals are provided.
Road conditions: Access to some sites can be challenging. Scott I. warns about Rothrock sites: "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."
Swimming options: Colonel Denning State Park Campground offers family-friendly water activities. "Wide open area to swim that was very clean and well kept," notes Casey L. The park also features "dog friendly sites near the water, the kids and pups play all day!"
Educational programs: State parks in the region frequently offer family programs. Nate & Erika L. describe how "our family of six made the trek up the Flat Rock Trail to the overlook. A six mile round trip with a 1200 ft climb. Spectacular views." Parks often schedule weekend activities geared toward children and families.
Budget considerations: Some facilities charge additional fees. At Little Buffalo State Park, "you have to pay to get in the pool, yes even if you are camping!!!" according to Amanda H. Plan for these extra costs when budgeting for your trip, especially during peak summer months.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites carefully at Colonel Denning State Park if bringing a trailer. One RVer mentioned: "We have a small 19" travel trailer which was almost impossible to park due to very tight sites." Another recommended making "notes of some better laid out sites" for future visits.
Hookup locations: Pay attention to electrical hookup placement when selecting sites. One camper noted their site "was not the greatest layout (electric was on the wrong side of the site for our door and canopy to open to the fire ring)." This can be particularly important for horse trailers with living quarters.
Weather monitoring: Riverside campgrounds may flood during heavy rains. At Ferryboat Campsites, one visitor warned: "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!"
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Centre Hall, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Centre Hall, PA is Black Moshannon State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 25 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Centre Hall, PA?
TheDyrt.com has all 24 equestrian camping locations near Centre Hall, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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