Equestrian camping near Delaware Water Gap, Pennsylvania connects riders with over 3,000 acres of trails and forests. The area sits at elevations between 700-1,800 feet with average summer temperatures in the 70s, making it comfortable for both horses and riders. Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area serves as a base camp, but riders should be aware that portable corrals or tethering equipment are needed as permanent horse enclosures aren't available.
What to do
Trail riding along the Appalachian Trail: Hikers and horseback riders share many trails throughout Stokes State Forest, including sections that connect to the Appalachian Trail. A visitor noted, "There are trail heads near the campsites and longer trails, including access to the Appalachian Trail within a short 10-15 minute drive" at Stokes State Forest.
Fishing in Catfish Pond: Bring fishing gear to catch various species in the park's lakes and ponds. "Plenty of fish, snapping turtles, and other wildlife. If you're there in the summer, I'd recommend taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries," according to a camper at Mohican Outdoor Center.
Exploring Conservation Nature Loop: This accessible trail offers educational opportunities about local ecology. One visitor at Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area shared their experience: "Hiked 2 short easy trails (Little Falls and the Conservation Nature Loop- which we drove to). Absolutely beautiful!"
What campers like
Large, well-maintained sites: Sites are spacious enough for horse trailers and camping equipment. A camper at Beechwood Area noted, "Sites were a good size and not on top of each other. Sites were clean and so was the site."
Clean facilities: Despite being in horse country, the bathrooms and shower facilities receive consistent praise. "The bathrooms were clean. My favorite site does, plus I can launch my kayak right from there!" shared a visitor at Pickerel Point Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forested setting provides excellent wildlife observation. One camper shared their experience at Mountainview Campground: "I've never heard so much wildlife there as I did here. Only shortly after we settled into our tent did we hear foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Book well in advance for equestrian sites, especially in summer. "We stayed in the Pickerel Point of the park. We had full hookups (20/30/50 amp, water & sewer)," reports a camper, though they note these are not in the equestrian area.
Bring your own corral: No permanent horse enclosures are available; bring portable fencing or tethering equipment. One camper noted, "You can rent kayaks and SUP at the main office," suggesting that while boat rentals are available, horse equipment is not.
Seasonal variations: Winter camping requires special preparation. "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers," reports a camper about winter conditions.
Trail conditions: Some trails can be rocky and challenging. At Keen Lake, a visitor observed: "The bathrooms were the cleanest we've ever experienced at a campground. *The showers are coin operated."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer organized activities for children. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, one family shared: "Several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area."
Safety around horses: Teach children proper behavior around horses and equestrian areas. A camper noted, "Staff are friendly and helpful. There is a lot for younger kids to do and the grounds are pet friendly which was a huge plus for us."
Multiple camping options: Consider different areas based on your needs. "There are four campgrounds that are all pretty different, we stayed at Shotwell across from the pond," explains one visitor. "For the most part, each campsite has its own porta potty or it shared with a couple other sites."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Choose sites with adequate turning radius for trucks with horse trailers. "If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs," advises a visitor to Spruce Run Recreation Area.
Hookup availability: Not all equestrian sites offer full hookups. "The RV sites were spaced out nicely. There are plenty of things to do; paddle boats, row boats, swimming pool, snack bar/campstore, activities, etc," notes a camper.
Road conditions: Some access roads can be challenging. "Watch the local roads for potholes," warns one camper, while another mentions, "The drive to our site had some inclines and was relatively rocky and some vehicles would surely struggle."
Guide
