Equestrian camping near Dingmans Ferry, Pennsylvania offers access to the forested trails of the Delaware Water Gap region through specialized facilities. The area sits at the intersection of the Pocono Mountains and Delaware River valley with elevations ranging from 400-1300 feet. Winter camping temperatures can drop below freezing, while summer highs reach the mid-80s with moderate rainfall throughout the year.
What to do
Trail riding through state forests: Stokes State Forest provides riding opportunities with over 63 miles of marked trails, including 12 miles that are part of the Appalachian Trail. According to one rider at Stokes State Forest, "Sussex county is beautiful. Stokes is such a peaceful campground! We stay in the cabins."
Kayaking on Promised Land State Park lakes: Launch directly from lakeside sites at Pickerel Point Campground. A camper notes, "My favorite site does, plus I can launch my kayak right from there!" The park offers crystal clear water for paddling, with rental options available for those without their own equipment.
Wildlife observation: The area hosts diverse wildlife including deer, foxes, and various bird species. A camper at Mountainview Campground reports, "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
Private waterside sites: Many equestrian campers appreciate the privacy and water access. At Ocquittunk, a visitor mentioned, "We stayed at site #T007, it was a short walk from the car to the site, but so worth it for many reasons. The site itself is huge and we were able to position our tent facing the lake, it was beautiful!"
Clean shower facilities: After a day of riding, clean facilities matter. A camper at Hemlock Hill noted, "Clean bathrooms are essential and even when the large campground is full the bathrooms have been clean." This complements the equestrian-focused amenities of the area.
Stargazing opportunities: The rural location offers minimal light pollution. A visitor at Camp Starry Night observed, "The stars and moon were absolutely amazing. We got some great night shots and the moon is so bright it actually looks like the sun in the photos."
What you should know
Winter camping considerations: Several campgrounds in the area remain open year-round. A winter camper at Pickerel Point Campground noted, "Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers. The park is large with many hiking trails and ice fishing."
Cell reception limitations: Coverage can be spotty throughout the Delaware Water Gap region. One reviewer warned, "The only negative is that I had almost no cell reception with Verizon."
Firewood availability: Many horse camping areas don't sell firewood on-site. At Mountainview Campground, a reviewer mentioned, "They do not allow you to gather your own firewood, but they do sell it in their camp store." Plan to bring or purchase firewood locally.
Tips for camping with families
Educational programs: Some parks offer ranger-led activities for children. A family at Keen Lake Resort Campground shared, "My boys absolutely love it and always have something to do. They have activity coordinators that make sure there is something to do for all ages every hour of the day!"
Cabin options for less experienced campers: For families new to horse camping, cabins provide comfort. A visitor to Stokes State Forest stated, "The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic. The interior features are just what you'd expect for getting away for the weekend."
Beginner-friendly riding areas: Flat, wide trails accommodate young riders. A family camping at Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area reported, "Hiked 2 short easy trails (Little Falls and the Conservation Nature Loop- which we drove to). Absolutely beautiful!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup specifics: When bringing horse trailers with living quarters, know the electrical capacity. A camper at Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area noted, "We stayed in a beechwood area camp site. Was told it was a tent only spot but the layout was not great for tents."
Site selection for horse trailers: Choose sites with adequate space and firm surfaces. A reviewer at Spruce Run Recreation Area advised, "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."
Seasonal considerations: Some equestrian areas have different amenities available based on season. A visitor noted, "We have camped here in tents and with our teardrop trailer. All of our experiences have been good. Clean bathrooms are essential and even when the large campground is full the bathrooms have been clean."
