World's End Equestrian Campground offers primitive equestrian sites in Loyalsock State Forest's Bridle Trailhead section. Located approximately 50 miles northwest of Danville in Sullivan County, the area sits at elevations between 1,200-2,000 feet with dense northern hardwood forests. Sites can accommodate horse trailers but don't provide water hookups or shower facilities, requiring campers to bring their own water supplies for both personal use and horses.
What to do
Trail riding through state forests: Horse trails at Loyalsock State Forest connect to an extensive network allowing riders to explore diverse terrain. The forest features abundant wildlife viewing opportunities with minimal noise pollution.
Fishing and boating: Tuscarora State Park offers excellent water recreation. "I mostly stayed at a cabin on the lake here, which was incredible. Dogs are welcome, as long as you clean up after them. Hiking through was good fun, and actually sort of clean," notes Joycel Y.
Historical sites exploration: Visit preserved mills and historical structures near equestrian campgrounds. At Little Buffalo State Park, campers enjoy the historical aspects: "The hiking was good as well. There are trails with some neat little obstacles to work out on and the historical mill was well worth the trip. By the far the highlight of ours as well. Especially since they engaged the wheel and actually ground corn!"
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: Many equestrian campgrounds near Danville feature minimal light pollution. At Tiadaghton State Forest, primitive sites offer exceptional night sky viewing from roadside camping areas.
Peace and quiet: Horse-friendly campgrounds typically provide separation between sites. "It's like you have the whole forest to yourself! You have to be alert to make the turn into the mountains onto the dirt road. Up and around down the mountain into the valley has some really beautiful views," writes Jen R. about camping in the region.
Wildlife encounters: State forest camping offers opportunities to observe native species. "There are bear in the region so be weary with your food. No noise pollution. No light pollution. No large towns anywhere near here all towns with very minimal population," explains Zoltan P. about the Tuscarora area.
What you should know
Water availability limitations: Most horse campgrounds require campers to bring their own water. At Ferryboat Campsites, water-only tent sites are available in the upper field, but primitive sites require hauling water: "There are water/electric sites in a loop behind the honeymooner cabins, and they have the best shade and set up for hammock camping."
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian sites require advance booking through Pennsylvania DCNR. Sites fill quickly during peak seasons, especially fall foliage weekends.
Weather and terrain challenges: Forest roads may become difficult after rain. Camping areas can experience significant temperature drops at night, even in summer.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with amenities: While horse campgrounds are primitive, nearby options offer more facilities. At Little Buffalo State Park Campground, "The pool here is top notch and it's good for fishing but the hiking isn't super great. We did have a nice bat spotting walk with a Ranger when we were there and there's an interesting historic mill you can tour."
Pack entertainment options: Most equestrian sites lack structured activities for children. "We enjoyed our stay here — but mostly because we liked being right on the water. If it weren't for that this would not be the campground for us. The weather was hot so lots of tubing and fishing and kayaking in the river."
Consider alternative accommodations: Some families prefer cabin options near horse areas. "My girlfriends and I just stayed in the yurts for annual glamping trip. We reserved 3 of 4 yurts for first weekend in June...non peak season. Peak season requires minimum 5 day reservation, I believe."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most horse campgrounds near Danville offer primitive camping only. At Walters Road Site, RVers must be self-contained as no hookups are available.
Site selection considerations: Look for level areas that accommodate both trailer and living quarters. "We stayed at a Susquehanna river view site with full hookups for 2 nights. Site was level and shaded, but very close to neighbors. Most sites were occupied by permanent or seasonal residents."
Plan for limited dump stations: Bring portable waste tanks for extended stays at primitive sites. State forests typically don't provide sanitary dumps, requiring travel to commercial facilities.
