Horsey Hilton Equestrian Campground serves as one of several specialized horse camping facilities in north-central Pennsylvania's state forest system. Located at an elevation of approximately 1,800 feet within the Susquehannock State Forest, this area features rolling terrain with mixed hardwood forests. Trail riding opportunities span more than 30 miles of interconnected paths through mature forest stands. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Stargazing at Cherry Springs: Visit the nearby dark sky park from Lyman Run State Park Campground for exceptional night sky viewing. "Up the road is cherry springs, known as our only Dark Sky Park in PA. The night sky is amazing," says Katie S. Another camper adds, "Lyman Run holds a special place for me. It's nestled within the gold level dark sky area. This means on a clear night and with a waning or new moon, one could see the arm of the Milky Way with millions of stars."
ATV trail riding: Access designated ATV trails directly from camping areas during permitted seasons. "This park we learned is actually open all year round, so if you come at the right season, it can be magically scenic. We stayed here for a few nights and enjoyed the area because of it having ATV trails that lead out of the park," notes Joshua L. about Lyman Run.
Fishing at local lakes: Multiple state park lakes offer trout and panfish opportunities within a 30-minute drive. "We also had a boat that we brought out to go fishing (you can rent a boat, but will cost you). Pretty easy to catch some trout and blue gill," shares a Lyman Run camper. At Tompkins Campground, "There is a beach for swimming, marina for boating and the sites are huge and grassy."
What campers like
Equestrian-specific facilities: Horse campgrounds near Coudersport, Pennsylvania provide dedicated areas for both horses and riders. The Gaswell and Dark Hollow Equestrian Campgrounds in Elk State Forest offer additional toilet facilities not found at Horsey Hilton. These specialized sites allow direct trail access without trailering.
Clean facilities: Many area campgrounds maintain well-kept common areas. At Stony Fork Creek Campground, "The campground was exceptionally maintained, bathrooms and showers virtually spotless and the pool was clearly and consistently maintained at all times," writes Greg W. Another visitor notes it's a "nice clean place."
Privacy between sites: Some campsites offer more seclusion than others. "We were at the Lower Campgrounds. It was perfect. It was so quiet and peaceful, did not even notice other campers around," writes Michelle L. about Lyman Run State Park. At Red House Area — Allegany State Park, "The trees offer great shade and privacy between most sites."
What you should know
Limited services: Most horse campgrounds near Coudersport lack drinking water and showers. While electric hookups are available, campers should bring all personal supplies. At Stony Fork Creek, "No cell service and WiFi isn't reliable if that's what you need or are looking for," reports Brandon W.
Reservation requirements: All equestrian campgrounds in the region require advance reservations through the Pennsylvania DCNR reservation system. Sites typically book 2-11 months in advance for peak summer weekends.
Weather considerations: The mountain elevation means significant temperature changes, even in summer. "We go camping to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet," notes MJ B. at Stony Fork Creek Campground, where campers found "shade and woods behind us, and the ground was grassy and level."
Tips for camping with families
Recreational activities: Several nearby campgrounds offer swimming and boating opportunities for children. "The pool was nice and the rec center had a lot of activities for kids. The pond offered fishing and pedal boat rentals," shares MJ B. about Stony Fork Creek.
Creek exploration: Small streams provide natural entertainment. At Allegany State Park, families can enjoy "catching crayfish, fishing, going to the amplitheater, hiking, and so much more. This is a favorite and a must see for sure!" according to Ashley V.
Educational programs: Many state parks host ranger-led activities. "They runs daily activities you can go to and learn about different things in nature," mentions Kelly B. about Allegany State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose campsites based on size requirements and privacy needs. "Area is open, not offering a lot of privacy, but we had shade and woods behind us, and the ground was grassy and level," notes MJ B. about choosing sites at Stony Fork Creek.
Access considerations: Horse trailer access requires careful planning, especially for larger rigs. Big Woods North and Big Woods South Campgrounds can accommodate moderate-sized trailers but have tighter turns than the specialized equestrian campgrounds.
Leveling and hookups: Most campgrounds feature relatively level sites. "All roads and parking pads are paved. The sites are closer together than most other COE parks where we've stayed," notes Bran P. about Tompkins Campground, adding "Our first week, we were on site 54 (W/E 50A) and waterfront. Our second week, we stayed on site 44 (FHU 50A)."
