Horseback riding camping sites dot the landscape around northeastern Pennsylvania, offering equestrians dedicated facilities near Clarks Summit. Located in the Pocono Mountains region at elevations ranging from 1,000-1,800 feet, the area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F. Several state parks and forests in the region maintain designated equestrian camping areas with trailer parking and access to extensive trail systems.
What to do
Lakeside recreation: Lackawanna State Park Campground offers multiple water activities centered around a 198-acre lake. "The swimming beach looked nice. They do have boat rental. Our site and the others we saw were nicely shaded," writes Amy V. The park also features a designated swimming area and equipment rentals.
Trail riding: World's End Equestrian Campground in Loyalsock State Forest provides dedicated horse camping with trail access. Located near Dushore, the campground connects to extensive bridle paths through forested terrain. Several miles of marked horse trails extend throughout the forest.
Hiking options: Pickerel Point Campground in Promised Land State Park features multiple trail systems. "The Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked," reports Alaina Z. The trails range from beginner-friendly paths to more challenging routes through wooded areas.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of Lackawanna State Park Campground. "We camp here several times a year and have never had a bad experience. Camp host is always most helpful and the park is always clean and well maintained," notes William R. The park maintains regular cleaning schedules for all facilities.
Private campsites: Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area receives praise for its site spacing. "Sites were a good size and not on top of each other," writes Siobhan D. Many campsites feature natural vegetation buffers between sites, enhancing privacy.
Water activities: Keen Lake Resort Campground stands out for its extensive lake-based recreation. "Each day we would paddle over to the swimming area on the lake. It was awesome," shares Shannon C. The lake permits non-motorized watercraft and features designated swimming areas.
What you should know
Site conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain for tent campers. At Pickerel Point, "chunky bluestone gravel on the sites, so bring a sleeping pad!" advises Alaina Z. Tent campers should bring additional padding for comfort.
Seasonal considerations: Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area remains open during colder months with some limitations. "Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers," notes Mara S. Winter camping requires additional preparation for freezing temperatures.
Cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between locations. At Lower Lake Campground, "I had almost no cell reception with Verizon," reports Mara S. Travelers should download maps and information before arrival.
Alcohol regulations: Most state park campgrounds prohibit alcohol consumption. This rule applies to all camping areas within Pennsylvania state parks, including the horse campgrounds near Clarks Summit.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Keen Lake Resort Campground offers structured programs for children. "They have activity coordinators that make sure there is something to do for all ages every hour of the day!" explains Mike H. These scheduled activities typically run from morning through early evening.
Beach access: When camping with children, consider proximity to swimming areas. "If you don't want to drive during your stay, camp on the side with the beach and pool," suggests Emily Z. at Keen Lake Resort Campground. Some lake areas have designated swimming sections with gradual entry points.
Educational opportunities: Lackawanna State Park offers nature programs during summer months. "There is an environmental education center with programs," mentions Janet R. These programs typically focus on local wildlife, plant identification, and conservation topics.
Tips from RVers
Hookup reliability: Check electrical capacity before setting up. At Lackawanna State Park, "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained," cautions David. Bring circuit protection and consider lower power needs during peak usage times.
Site selection: At Tuscarora State Park Campground, "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 Paige H. Research individual site dimensions before booking.
Access roads: Several equestrian campgrounds near Clarks Summit require navigating narrow roads. "Watch the local roads for potholes," warns Tommy M. about routes near Promised Land State Park. Larger rigs should research road conditions, especially during spring when frost heave damage is common.
