Equestrian camping opportunities within a 35-mile radius of Columbia, Pennsylvania offer varied terrain for trail riding and overnight stays. The area falls within the Lower Susquehanna watershed with elevations ranging from 200 to 600 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds permit horses from April through November, when ground conditions aren't excessively wet or frozen.
What to do
Trail riding access: Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area provides extensive bridle paths through 5,600 acres of Maryland countryside. Located 32 miles south of Columbia in Elkton, the facility offers "two primitive youth group camping areas" with "specific rules that need to be followed," according to reviewer Gen F. Horse camping typically requires advance arrangements.
Fishing opportunities: Camp near waterways for fishing access at Hibernia County Park, where "there is a very nice playground situated conveniently between the loops of the campground" and "two lakes, Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake that you can fish at, kayak, canoe or just relax by," notes Jennifer S. The park contains multiple warm water fish species including bass and panfish.
Historic explorations: Artillery Ridge Campground sits adjacent to Gettysburg battlefields with direct trail access. "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," writes MJ B., making it ideal for history-focused trail rides.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At French Creek State Park, campsites provide good separation for horses and gear. "The campsites are not right on top of one another. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers," reports Jen R. Another visitor noted "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze."
Diverse terrain: Michaux State Forest permits equestrian camping at designated motorized parking lot sites, which "also serve as equestrian sites, and horse camping is allowed here. Teaberry has a few hitching posts and a two step mounting block available," explains Bridget D. The forest features mixed deciduous and coniferous sections with some open meadows.
Water access: Hibernia County Park provides lake proximity for water access. "The lake is about a 3 minute hike down the clearly marked trails. Each site has a large picnic table and a fire ring with a built in grill," notes Anna. The campground charges only $15/night, making it economical for overnight trail riders.
What you should know
Permit requirements: At Michaux State Forest, "camping is free in several areas throughout Michaux State Forest (as well as other PA State Forests), BUT you usually need to have a camping permit (also free) and you can only stay in designated campsites," explains Jen S. Permits for designated motorized sites must be obtained online.
Limited amenities: Most equestrian camping sites have basic facilities only. Gettysburg Campground offers "no dump station. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee, otherwise, you'll have to look for a truck stop on the way home," advises Jennifer S. Bring sufficient water for horses.
Seasonal considerations: Little Buffalo State Park experiences high usage during summer months. "The campground fills quickly on the weekends, kayakers and fishers, and motorboats use this as the weekend home and mini family vacation spots," reports Avery M., making weekday reservations preferable for horse camping.
Tips for camping with families
Choose loops with space: At French Creek State Park, "We checked out the other loops for future use and found Loop A to have very spacious, less rocky sites, however, there was little shrubbery between each site, making them less private than the sites in Loop C," notes Ellen C. Consider site topography when bringing horses and children.
Seek safety features: Ferryboat Campsites provides family-friendly areas with supervision potential. "This is a wonderful little campsite primarily catering the seasonal RVer. With that said they do have primitive camping spots next to the putt putt course and water only tent sits at the upper feild," explains Avery M., allowing adults to monitor both children and horses.
Consider multi-use trails: When selecting horse camping locations with children, look for shared-use capabilities. "There are trails for mountain biking or hiking, a frisbee golf course, playground at the campground and at the lake," says Jen R. about French Creek State Park, providing activities when children need breaks from riding.
Tips for RVers with horses
Site selection: Starlite Camping Resort offers level sites that work well for horse trailers. "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," explains Craig F., noting "the individual sites are very level to park the camper with almost no blocks needed."
Power requirements: Campgrounds with sufficient electricity for RVs and horse trailers matter. "If you're hauling a big camper you'll need power for the hills," advises Chris G. regarding Starlite's location on significant terrain, an important consideration when transporting horses.
Maneuverability assessment: Check access roads before bringing larger rigs. "There are 200 individual sites in four loops, some with full hookups for RVs, some with electric only but mostly primitive sites," explains Ellen C. about French Creek State Park, but adds that "many of the sites surrounding ours were very rocky and left little option for a larger than normal sized tent" - a consideration that applies to horse trailers as well.
