Equestrian camping options near Dauphin, Pennsylvania extend beyond the limited facilities mentioned for Ferryboat Campsites. The region sits where the Appalachian Mountain range creates varied terrain with elevations ranging from 400-1200 feet along the Susquehanna River Valley. Several state forests within driving distance provide alternative camping experiences for those traveling with horses, though amenities vary significantly by location.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Colonel Denning State Park offers hiking opportunities with challenging terrain. "There were some great trails in the area. Our family of six made the trek up the Flat Rock Trail to the overlook. A six mile round trip with a 1200 ft climb. Spectacular views," reports a visitor to Colonel Denning State Park Campground.
Swimming options: Little Buffalo State Park features a modern swimming facility not found at many other locations. "They offer a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones! There is also a splash pad! There are 2 slides for fun!" notes a camper at Little Buffalo State Park Campground.
Historical exploration: The area provides access to significant Civil War sites. One camper at Artillery Ridge explains, "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."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Unlike crowded campgrounds, some locations offer well-spaced sites. At Starlite Camping Resort, campers appreciate that "the sites were large, with trees between, providing additional privacy. Too often private campgrounds attempt to squeeze as many sites as possible and end up with campers on top of their neighbors, but at Starlight, the sites felt very secluded."
Clean facilities: Consistently maintained bathrooms matter to visitors. A camper at Gettysburg Campground noted, "The tenting area is calm and has a creek right next to it to listen to in the evening and morning." Another mentioned that "very nice staff and accommodations" made their first trip in a travel trailer positive.
Riverfront locations: Water access remains a priority for many campers. A visitor to Ferryboat Campsites stated, "We stayed at a Susquehanna river view site with full hookups for 2 nights. Site was level and shaded, but very close to neighbors. Bathrooms and grounds were very clean."
What you should know
Permit requirements: State forests require advance planning. 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."
Horse facilities limitations: Beyond the stables at Ferryboat, options for horse camping exist but with minimal amenities. Teaberry Parking Area in Michaux State Forest "has a few hitching posts and a two step mounting block available" according to a forest review.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts site conditions significantly. One camper warned, "Storms with heavy rain in the area made the river rise. We were told the campground is susceptible to flooding, so check the weather when you come!"
Tips for camping with families
Pool access costs: Budget for additional swimming fees. A Little Buffalo visitor cautions, "2nd downfall, you have to pay to get in the pool, yes even if you are camping!!!"
Playground proximity: Consider site location relative to common areas. One Artillery Ridge camper mentioned, "The only complain we had was people walking through our sites due us being close to the playground and the noise level on the playground."
Trail difficulty assessments: Match hiking trails to family abilities. A Colonel Denning visitor suggests, "There was a chaplain who came around offering a Sunday morning church service at the amphitheater. All in all, we loved this campground and after making notes of some better laid out sites, we cant wait to return!"
Tips from RVers
Site layout challenges: Pay attention to hookup locations. At Gettysburg Campground, one RVer noted, "All of the utilities worked just fine. Sites are a bit close to each other, not a lot of foliage between sites."
Hill considerations: Some campgrounds require additional power for steeper terrain. A camper at Starlite Camping Resort advised, "If you're hauling a big camper you'll need power for the hills."
Seasonal pest issues: Be prepared for regional insects. One Teaberry visitor reported, "The first 3.5 days there were lantern flies actively trying to get into our rig, digging themselves behind the window screens, etc. and then day 4 they were gone. It was traumatic."
