Pennsylvania offers several equestrian camping options within driving distance of Devon. While Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area sits 45 miles from Devon, other horse campgrounds are available in the surrounding region. Most equestrian camping areas provide access to riding trails directly from the campsites, though terrain and facilities vary considerably. Seasonal availability can affect ground conditions, with some locations limiting horse access during wet periods to prevent trail damage.
What to do
Trail riding at French Creek State Park: Located about 15 miles from Devon, the park offers extensive hiking and riding options. "There are lots of nice trails. We tented in loop D…the only bad part was that it was kind of hard to find a level and rock-free spot large enough for our tent, but we managed! There is lots of hiking, the lake is beautiful," notes Katie M.
Fishing at local waterways: Many campgrounds provide lake access for fishing enthusiasts. At French Creek State Park Campground, "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish. Ice fishing is also allowed at both lakes and the ice thickness is monitored," according to one detailed review.
Wildlife observation: The region's forests provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. At Blackbird State Forest Campground, campers report impressive wildlife encounters: "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 campers like
Spacious, private sites: Campers consistently praise the roominess of sites throughout the region. At Hibernia County Park, "The campground is a county run one that works on a first come first serve basis, which is fine if there are others close by. They are wooded sites and have 2 loops," explains Jim N.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms are frequently mentioned. "Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers. Nice area to wash dishes. Very nice playground area and clean," reports Jen R. about French Creek State Park.
Quiet atmosphere: The peaceful environment draws repeat visitors to many regional parks. At Mountainview Campground, a camper noted, "The campground was very quiet and peaceful. The owners were very friendly. The spot was spacious and comfortable. The bathrooms were clean."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some parks require advanced planning. At Brendan Byrne State Forest, "The rules of the campsites are ambiguous on the website and when we first arrived were unaware that if using an RV in a tent site you are not allowed to add another tent to the site. There is a two tent limit per site despite the site allowing up to 6 people."
Hookup availability: Electric and water services differ widely between campgrounds. "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," shares a camper about Starlite Camping Resort.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts camping conditions significantly. "We have been having a crazy amount of rain here in Pennsylvania so due to weather related issues we haven't been able to get out there until now," notes a ranger review about spring camping conditions at French Creek State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Family-friendly facilities enhance the experience for younger campers. "There is a huge lake where you can rent canoes and kayaks. A huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake. There are trails for mountain biking or hiking, a frisbee golf course, playground at the campground and at the lake," writes a reviewer about French Creek.
Water activities: Lakes provide recreation beyond horseback riding. At Lums Pond State Park Campground, "Great state park with lots to do (kayaking, biking, and more). Our daughter really enjoyed the playground (which was excellent, by my standards)."
Fire restrictions: Be aware of campfire rules which may limit burning times. "Only weird rule I saw was that fires can only go from 6pm till 7am which was odd but wasn't a deal breaker," notes a camper about Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Many campgrounds require preparation for uneven terrain. "The sites were not on top of each other. All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze," reports a camper about French Creek State Park, though this isn't universal across all parks in the region.
Accessibility challenges: Some campgrounds have terrain limitations. At Mountainview Campground, "The drive to our site had some inclines and was relatively rocky and some vehicles would surely struggle," cautions one review.
Hookup locations: Utility placement can present setup challenges. "The site offered electric and water but they were on 2 different sides. This made it difficult to set up. Had to park the camper crooked to use both," mentions a camper about regional campground layouts.
Ranger
