Equestrian Camping near Chambersburg, PA

12 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.

Search destinations
    Add dates
    SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

    Michaux State Forest offers equestrian camping at designated motorized parking lot sites that serve as horse camping areas. Teaberry Parking Area specifically accommodates horse camping with a few hitching posts and a two-step mounting block available for riders. These primitive sites require a free online permit and remain open year-round for equestrian use. The campground features a large gravel lot with five well-spaced sites along one side, providing ample room for horse trailers and camping equipment. Each site includes a fire ring, while some have picnic tables. Horses must be kept under control at all times and should not disturb other campers.

    Located within the northern terminus of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the equestrian trails connect riders to various points throughout the 85,000-acre state forest. Riders can explore the young mixed deciduous and coniferous forest, with some open meadow sections ideal for horseback riding. No drinking water is available at the sites, though some locations have creeks or springhouses nearby that require treatment before use. Cell service varies significantly throughout the forest, with some areas having no service while others offer strong connections. The gravel parking areas can accommodate larger trailers, making it accessible for horse owners with substantial rigs. During fall visits, riders should be aware of potential hazards from falling black walnuts in certain camping areas.

    Connectivity Maps

    Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
    Map showing cell service coverage and campground pins
    Try Connectivity Maps

    Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Chambersburg (12)

      1. Gettysburg Campground

      4.0(28)21mi from ChambersburgRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "I always appreciate the near solitude experience of this campground as 90% of the sites are RV sites, that are kept away from the tenting area."

      "If you’re looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn’t it."

      2. Michaux State Forest

      4.0(6)13mi from ChambersburgRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "Some reviewers have confused nearby State Parks with the actual State Forest, resulting in inaccurate information."

      "Every January for the last few years some friends and I have gone and camped along the Appalachian Trail."

      from $10 / night

      Check Availability

      3. Artillery Ridge Campground

      4.3(27)24mi from ChambersburgRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "This park is a perfect location if you want to explore Gettysburg National Historical Site as you can literally walk across the street and be in the park or venture½ mile up the road and you come to the"

      "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded."

      4. Teaberry Parking Area Campsites — Michaux State Forest

      3.0(1)13mi from Chambersburg5 sitesRVs, Tents

      from $10 / night

      Check Availability

      5. Colonel Denning State Park Campground

      4.8(9)27mi from Chambersburg50 sitesRVs, Tents

      "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."

      from $20 - $38 / night

      Check Availability

      6. Peggy's Hill Parking Area Campsites — Michaux State Forest

      Be the first to review13mi from Chambersburg2 sitesRVs, Tents

      from $10 / night

      Check Availability

      7. Little Buffalo State Park Campground

      4.5(19)44mi from Chambersburg52 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "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."

      from $26 - $165 / night

      Check Availability

      8. Vagabond Isle

      Be the first to review28mi from Chambersburg1 siteTents

      from $100 - $150 / night

      Check Availability

      9. Camp Winery

      5.0(1)42mi from Chambersburg1 siteRVs, Tents

      "Close to many cool things in the area too"

      10. South Block — Tuscarora State Forest

      Be the first to review33mi from Chambersburg32 sitesRVs, Tents

      from $10 / night

      Check Availability

    2026 Explorer Giveaway

    Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

    Enter to Win

    Drive Time


    Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Chambersburg, PA

    5 Photos of 12 Chambersburg Campgrounds


    Equestrian Camping Reviews near Chambersburg, PA

    94 Reviews of 12 Chambersburg Campgrounds


    • Nancy W.The Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 30, 2021

      Artillery Ridge Campground

      Great Location to Battlefield

      This park is a perfect location if you want to explore Gettysburg National Historical Site as you can literally walk across the street and be in the park or venture½ mile up the road and you come to the park’s main visitor center. The campground has a bunch of different sites whether you want to spend more money for a premium full hook-up or save a few bucks and just get water and electric. There are lots of tent sites, cabins, and horse stalls with a corral for those traveling with horses. The park is also very close to the historic downtown so you don’t have to drive too far for the attractions. 

      We were able to do contactless check-in by making the reservation and paying over the phone. When we arrived, they had a packet out on a picnic table for us with directions to our site and information about the park and the surrounding area. But, the best part of the check-in was that we got a free bundle of wood and the cutest little s’mores packet which had just enough fixings for the two of us. Such a great touch that we really appreciated. We had a gravel pull thru site which was easy to navigate in and out of with our tow car attached and was plenty long enough. The roads are gravel but were not dusty. The site and patio were gravel and a mix of grass. The campground was very clean and well-cared for. 

      Some of the sites are in the open without much shade but some other areas have some nice shade.  Most of the tent section is pretty open with a few trees scattered about.  Some of the sites (i.e., 82) is very close to the playground and the fishing pond which get quite a bit of action so be aware of the nearby amenities when you choose a site.  

      This park is well-suited for people traveling with horses. There are multiple pens and a fenced riding arena and ample RV sites and cabins in the near the horse stalls and there is a hose wash rack. 

      Some of the things we liked about this park:

      • There is a big section of the park dedicated to horses as the National Riding Stables are located on the grounds. You can get guided tours of the battlefield on their rescue horses.

      • A 24/7 firewood dispensing machine– which we had never seen before• Catch and release fishing pond• Free putt putt golf.

      • Heated swimming pool

      • Clean, well-kept campground• Lots of activities for kids with playgrounds, volleyball basketball, game room, camp store, movies, pool, etc.

      We paid $44/night for our full hook-up site (#45) which we didn’t think was too expensive or unreasonable. Luckily for us, nobody was next to us during our stay (in May) as the neighboring sites were pretty close and this campground probably feels very tight when it’s full. The close proximity to Gettysburg NHS was the biggest plus of this park for us.

    • MJ B.
      Jun. 19, 2024

      Artillery Ridge Campground

      Camping as close to history as you can get

      Spent a weekend at Gettysburg. We camped at Artillery Ridge Campground, which served as an artillery storage/staging area for the Union during the battle. 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. So close to history. We have been to Gettysburg before, but going with the kids again being older, we all had a greater appreciation of the sacrifice of this 3-day battle. We did Park Ranger tours to learn about the 1st shot and how the war started to stand in the footsteps of General Buford at Senitary Ridge in the cupola overseeing the battlefield. Later in the day we took a horse carriage ride through the battlefields, Picketts Charge and the peach orchard with a private guide to learn every ounce of the battlefield and the major players to learn about the 3 days of fighting that took place to how the civilians of Gettysburg were impacted. The three day battle claimed over 50,000 lives and we toured the town of Gettysburg to learn how the community had to deal with the aftermath of the masses who perished, the smell which went on for over 30 miles and limited resources such as clean water. It's amazing to see how history was so preserved but right across the street from battlefields where so many died stands fast food restaurants, and hotels. A little surreal. Would definitely recommend a ride out to Gettysburg and this campground, which is right next to the battlefields. Clean facilities. If you are into horses, this is the place for you! Though sites are not very private, everyone is very respectful, and you are not on top of each other. Quiet hours are observed, which is nice too. Store has a great variety of souviners, treats, and emergency camping items. You can't get any closer to history than here. Would definitely recommend if you are looking to visit Gettysburg.

    • B
      Sep. 1, 2022

      Michaux State Forest

      Motorized and Primitive Sites, but double check info.

      Some reviewers have confused nearby State Parks with the actual State Forest, resulting in inaccurate information. Despite their proximity, Caledonia and Pine Grove Furnace State Parks are NOT considered State Forest land, and have completely different amenities, availability, and regulations.

      Michaux State Forest sites fall in to 4 categories:

      1. Designated motorized sites, which require a free online permit and are open April 2 until the 3rd Sunday after Thanksgiving

      2. Designated motorized parking lot sites, which require the same free online permit but are open year-round

      3. Primitive backpacking sites, open year-round (no permit required, should be at least 1 mi from a trailhead, and only 1 night per site allowed)

      4. Primitive Cabins, which are on State Forest land but are managed by and booked through the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club.

      None of the sites available in Michaux have:

      -electric or water hookups. If you used/saw one, you were in a State Park, not Forest.

      -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 within 1/4 mi or so, but don't count on it)

      All designated sites have some sort of fire ring, whether stones or metal.

      Some, but not all, designated sites have picnic tables.

      Cell service varies greatly. Some sites will have none without a decent drive or hike, while others have 4 bars.

      Fires are not permitted at all from March 1 to May 25, and are also banned when fire danger is deemed too high.

      Alcohol is permitted, except in picnic areas.

      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.

      Pets are allowed as long as they are under control at all times and are not disturbing others. If your dog's recall is anything but perfect, they haven't earned the privilege. Use a leash or long line; remember that if your out-of-control dog gets into a fight with an aggressive but leashed dog, the fault is yours. It's not worth two sets of vet bills.

      This is my go-to local place for camping and hiking alike. Michaux sits on the northern terminus of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and though they are scarcely more than foothills here compared to their majesty in more well-known areas like TN, NC, and VA, it is a place of peace and beauty all the same. Like much of the state, it's a young mixed deciduous and coniferous forest, with some open and sparsely wooded prairie/meadow sections.

    • R
      Oct. 31, 2020

      Artillery Ridge Campground

      Pretty much on the battlefield

      We stayed at this campground during the COVID pandemic so not much was open at the campground. But from the looks of it they have a small mini golf area, nice size basketball court and a good size building for activities. This campground has horse stalls and rings if you would like to bring your own horses. There were a few families that brought their horses and they were right across from our site. Kids loved being able to see them and get close and even pet them!

      This campground is minutes from town and is practically on the battlefield.

    • Z
      Jul. 5, 2021

      Artillery Ridge Campground

      Amazing 4th of July Weekend

      The staff are very friendly and helpful. The campground was very well maintained and clean. Bathhouse is updated and clean. The RV sites are gravel and pretty level. Fun filled weekend of activities for the whole family. Close to historic Gettysburg battleground. Fantastic horse rescue on the campground. You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback. Nice catch and release pond in campground. Will definitely be returning.

    • Dave G.
      Sep. 24, 2017

      Gettysburg Campground

      Quiet, Plentiful, Not Cheap

      This was our third stay here on our somewhat annual family meetup in Gettysburg. I always appreciate the near solitude experience of this campground as 90% of the sites are RV sites, that are kept away from the tenting area. The tenting area is calm and has a creek right next to it to listen to in the evening and morning. One of the drawbacks of this campground is that a lot of the trees are black walnut trees and the squirrels do not shy away from dropping the walnuts like bombs on your head, car, or table when you're preparing breakfast.

      Gear Review: I won a pair of Treadagain sandals for one of my last campground reviews and this was the first camping trip that I took with them. When I initially bought them, they gave me an abrasion cut and I contemplated sending them back, but after wearing them more, they became more comfortable and I have found them to be ideal for walking around in all day since they have thick bottoms.

    • Casey L.
      Aug. 17, 2021

      Colonel Denning State Park Campground

      Favorite Park of the Season

      Amazing!!! Cleanest facilities of the year so far, amazing large flat sites, dog friendly and great stream right behind the sites. If you stay in lower sites you are near the water and will have to walk up a large hill to get to bathrooms. Trail head close to site and was a very difficult hike with amazing views!! Wide open area to swim that was very clean and well kept. Hope to revisit soon!

    • Jim G.The Dyrt Pro User
      Nov. 9, 2020

      Gettysburg Campground

      Very close to Gettysburg

      If you’re looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn’t it. If you are looking for a campground that is very close to an historical National Park not to mention shopping and restaurants, this is for you. 

      The amenities of Gettysburg Campground are quite good: full hookups with cable, all working as expected. Level sites, friendly and efficient staff, decently sized sites long enough for my 32’ coach and a toad. The two drawbacks are that the sites are quite packed together and the noise of traffic– at least in the frontmost sites– can get rather loud at night. However, the proximity to Gettysburg National Park can’t be beat.

    • L
      Aug. 3, 2019

      Gettysburg Campground

      Close to history and so much to do, family oriented

      Campground has so many activities for active families. Pool,  swing sets, hosted events and theme nights and weekends. Sites are large enough for 2 tents, many Rv and seasonal rentals one main bath house and very clean potable potties scattered throughout the area. Small creek runs at the end of the grounds.. Very close to so much history, close to downtown Gettysburg with sight seeing tours offered for the battlefields, shopping and dining close by.


    Guide to Chambersburg

    Michaux State Forest provides primitive motorized parking lot campsites that accommodate equestrian campers. These designated sites have specific amenities for horse owners, such as hitching posts at the Teaberry Parking Area. State forests near Chambersburg feature relatively flat terrain with elevations ranging from 500 to 2,100 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 80°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing.

    What to do

    Trail riding access: Horseback riders can access numerous trails from Teaberry Parking Area Campsites in Michaux State Forest. One camper noted, "It was a very large gravel lot with 5 sites along one side, pretty well spaced. 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."

    Historical exploration: Visit Gettysburg Campground for easy access to Civil War battlefields. "Not far to go anywhere walking. Lots of history nearby," shares one camper. Another adds, "If you're looking for a campground that is very close to an historical National Park not to mention shopping and restaurants, this is for you."

    Hiking challenges: Take on the Flat Rock Trail at Colonel Denning State Park for panoramic views. "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," reports one visitor. Another mentions, "Trail head close to site and was a very difficult hike with amazing views!!"

    What campers like

    Natural water features: Sites near creeks provide relaxing sounds and recreation opportunities. At Colonel Denning State Park, campers appreciate that "dog friendly sites near the water, the kids and pups play all day!" Another camper mentions, "We love the dog friendly sites near the water," noting how families gather around these natural water features.

    Dark night skies: The remote locations of many Chambersburg area campgrounds provide excellent stargazing. Michaux State Forest campsites offer minimal light pollution. A winter camper shares, "Every January for the last few years some friends and I have gone and camped along the Appalachian Trail. Water is easily found and views like Sunset Rocks are simply gorgeous."

    Wildlife encounters: The forested campgrounds host diverse wildlife. At Artillery Ridge Campground, park rangers organize special wildlife programs. "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 one camper who enjoyed this unique experience.

    What you should know

    Permit requirements: Michaux State Forest requires free online permits for designated motorized sites. As one experienced camper explains, "Michaux State Forest campgrounds have vault toilets and the sites are well-maintained. Unfortunately you cannot reserve sites online and it's a little tricky, but it's free..."

    Seasonal restrictions: Fire regulations vary throughout the year. In Michaux State Forest, fires are not permitted from March 1 to May 25 and during high fire danger periods. During fall, be aware of natural hazards in certain areas.

    Cell service variability: Connectivity fluctuates significantly across the region. At Little Buffalo State Park, service is generally reliable, while forest camping offers more spotty coverage. One Artillery Ridge camper reported, "AT&T cell reception at our site was hit or miss, but good in the rest of the campground."

    Tips for camping with families

    Educational programs: Take advantage of ranger-led activities at several parks. "The park rangers had an owl program on Friday night and ended up calling in several screech owls," shares one visitor to Colonel Denning State Park. Another camper mentions, "We did have a nice bat spotting walk with a Ranger when we were there."

    Swimming options: Little Buffalo State Park offers a large pool with features for children. A camper reports, "They offer 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!"

    Safe hiking choices: Select appropriate trails based on children's abilities. At Camp Winery in nearby Maryland, visitors find "very beautiful spot" for tent camping that's "close to many cool things in the area too." For more challenging options, Colonel Denning has trails of varying difficulty.

    Tips from RVers

    Campsite selection: Choose sites carefully at equestrian campgrounds near Chambersburg. At Teaberry Parking Area, one RVer advised, "It might be a better site for tent camping than an RV. It was a very large gravel lot with 5 sites along one side, pretty well spaced."

    Seasonal considerations: Be aware of insects during certain times. In late summer at Teaberry, an RVer warned, "The first 3.5 days there were lantern flies actively trying to get into our rig, digging themselves behind the window screens, etc. and then day 4 they were gone. It was traumatic."

    Utility placement: Pay attention to hookup locations when selecting sites. One Artillery Ridge camper noted their site layout challenges: "electric was on the wrong side of the site for our door and canopy to open to the fire ring," though they still enjoyed their stay overall.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Chambersburg, PA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Chambersburg, PA is Gettysburg Campground with a 4-star rating from 28 reviews.

    What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Chambersburg, PA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 12 equestrian camping locations near Chambersburg, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.