The region surrounding Chester Heights features rolling hills and hardwood forests with an average elevation of 300-400 feet above sea level. Located along the Brandywine Valley, this area experiences mild summers and cold winters with average rainfall of 45 inches annually. Equestrian camping facilities near Chester Heights often connect to extensive trail networks spanning thousands of acres of managed woodland and meadow habitat.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area offers extensive trail systems through varied terrain. "There are a ton of picnic tables too so you can take a lunch and just sit by the lake to relax and have a bite to eat. We have also attending an Orienteering event here which was nation wide and really exciting," notes one visitor who enjoyed the diverse recreation options.
Fishing opportunities: At French Creek State Park, anglers can access two lakes stocked with diverse fish species. "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," reports a camper who appreciated the year-round fishing access.
Horseback riding trails: Hibernia County Park connects to regional equestrian trail systems with varying difficulty levels. "The park is well-known for its equestrian events and horse-friendly environment," explains a frequent visitor, noting that riders should bring water for their horses as natural water sources may be seasonal.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Lums Pond State Park earns consistent praise for maintenance. "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease," writes one camper who visited with family members with varying comfort levels.
Spacious campsites: Many equestrian campgrounds provide extra room for trailers and equipment. "From the moment I pulled in and observed how large the sites were, I was hooked. Bike trails, Going Ape, kayaking and peaceful," notes a visitor who appreciated having adequate space for their camping setup.
Natural setting: Hibernia County Park offers a secluded woodland camping experience. "We LOVE this campground. It's tiny (19 sites in Fiddlers loop), it's quiet, it's heavily wooded. There is NOTHING to do except walk or bike the beautiful trails, spend time on Chamber's Lake, spend time in the hammock and stare at the fire," shares a repeat visitor who values the undeveloped character.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most horse-friendly campgrounds near Chester Heights require advance booking. "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises a regular camper at Lums Pond State Park who has learned to secure sites well in advance.
Limited hookups: Blackbird State Forest offers primitive camping with minimal amenities. "Each campsite features a picnic table or two, and a fire pit, plus one bundle of firewood. The ground is dirt covered with woodchips and sometimes evergreen needles -- pretty easy to sleep in a tent," explains a visitor who appreciated the natural setting despite limited facilities.
Seasonal availability: Several area campgrounds operate on restricted schedules. "This campground is only open on the weekends, in season. Sites can be reserved on line, by phone, or by 'first come, first served' self-registration," notes a visitor to Hibernia County Park who planned accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several equestrian campgrounds near Chester Heights include family amenities. "Nice area to wash dishes. Very nice playground area and clean," reports a visitor to French Creek State Park who traveled with children.
Kid-friendly fishing: Dedicated fishing areas for younger anglers make family outings more enjoyable. "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," explains a visitor to Hibernia County Park who found activities suitable for children ages 3-12.
Multi-age activities: Starlite Camping Resort provides programmed events for different age groups. "There are regular activities for all ages including bingo, crafts and live music," reports a long-term visitor who found entertainment options for the entire family.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Horse camping areas often have varied terrain requiring preparation. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," notes a visitor to French Creek State Park who appreciated the thoughtful site design.
Electric availability: Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area provides limited electric hookups at equestrian sites. "We stayed in Loop C, which is the only loop that allows pets, on sites 35, 37, 39,& 40. Thankfully, a short walk to the bathroom facilities for us tent campers," explains a visitor who selected their site based on specific needs.
Water access planning: Prepare for limited water availability at some horse camping facilities. "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank. There is one spigot at the 'bathroom'," advises an RV camper at Hibernia County Park who recommends arriving with full tanks.
