North Run Equine Camping Area provides dedicated facilities for horse owners within Moshannon State Forest. Located near Penfield, Pennsylvania, approximately 45 miles northwest of Ebensburg, this specialized campground connects directly to an extensive trail network. The camping area features electric hookups for RVs and trailers with designated areas for setting up portable corrals or highlines for horses. Riders can access miles of forested trails straight from their campsites without needing to transport horses to separate trailheads.
What to do
Trail riding through state forests: Black Moshannon State Park offers multiple interconnected trails suitable for riders of various experience levels. "This campground is so beautiful with plenty to do for everyone, tons of hiking along the whole park," notes Lisa L. about Black Moshannon State Park Campground.
Explore mountain overlooks: Rothrock State Forest provides scenic vistas accessible by horseback or on foot. "The site has their own private overlook to the valley below," mentions Scott I. about Rothrock Roadside Campsites.
Lake activities: Combine horse camping with water recreation at nearby lakes. "The lake has lots to offer. Swimming, boating, fishing, wildlife watching and a big sky view for star gazing," says Denise D. about Black Moshannon State Park Campground.
What campers like
Secluded wooded campsites: The horse campgrounds near Ebensburg, Pennsylvania provide privacy between sites. "The sites are situated nicely, your neighbors are not 'right there'," explains Sandi G. about Black Moshannon State Park Campground.
Water features: State parks in the region offer unique water access. "Nice unique lake that is incredibly dark in color. Lilly pads abound with great flowers," describes Clay P. at Black Moshannon State Park.
Maintained facilities: Shawnee State Park Campground offers additional amenities when taking breaks from trail riding. "Bathroom and showers were clean, bright, and there is a dish washing sink outside," mentions Danielle S., adding "Showers were push button but pressure was great and the water was hot."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Many equestrian sites in Pennsylvania state forests require advance planning. "Make a reservation way ahead of your date as this campground is very popular and sites book early," advises Denise D. regarding Black Moshannon.
Trail conditions vary seasonally: Forest service roads and horse trails can be difficult during certain times of year. "It's easy enough during the summer, though the road is narrow and you've got some sharp bends depending on which way you come from. This road is not safe to access in the winter in my opinion," cautions Scott I. about Rothrock State Forest access.
Campsite layout challenges: Shawnee State Park can present difficulties for larger rigs. "We have a 35' TT and there was no way it was going to fit in the site we originally booked. Luckily it was opening weekend and the rangers and super accommodating! We moved over one site and it made all the difference," shares Brittany V.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Equine camping areas provide learning experiences for children. "The park also runs a ton of classes for different things like fly fishing, hiking, etc.," mentions Lisa L. about Black Moshannon State Park.
Cabin alternatives: Black Moshannon State Park Campground offers cabin rentals for families not comfortable tent camping with horses. "My family and I stayed here one night during a motorcycle trip. We rented 1 of the cabins they have on the property and it was great all of us fit comfortably we were able to have a campfire out front and sit at a picnic table," explains Danielle W.
Historical points of interest: Combine horse camping with educational stops. "Foggy mornings are the best in the beautiful forest near Schellsburg historical sites. Nice lake too. Easy access from the PA Turnpike," recommends Melanie Z. about Shawnee State Park.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Equestrian campgrounds often have uneven sites requiring preparation. "I heeded the advice of other reviewers warning that many sites were not level and did not reserve ahead of time. A Monday in mid-October had many open sites. Most of the non-electric sites were decidedly not level but many of the FHU and electric sites were fairly level," advises Lee D. from Shawnee State Park.
Hookup availability: Horse camping areas typically offer limited services. "300+ site campground with a mix of FHU, 30 and 50-amp electric, and non-electric tent sites, yurts, and cabins. Select loops allow pets but not all do," notes Lee D. about Shawnee State Park.
Dump station access: Plan waste management in advance at equestrian sites. "Easy access to the dump station as you exit. It's not directly on the lake but there is a ton of parking and easy access points," mentions Brittany V. about Shawnee State Park Campground.
