Equestrian camping near Eighty Four, Pennsylvania offers opportunities for riders to explore woodland trails through the Appalachian foothills. The region averages 41 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush forest conditions ideal for summer trail riding. Fall camping season typically runs from September through mid-November with overnight temperatures ranging from 40-65°F.
What to do
Trail riding at Beaver Creek State Park: Connect to 18 miles of multi-use trails that accommodate horses and riders of varying experience levels. "Small park, only a few sites with hookups, but very nice. Rustic, with trails to the main park that take you through beautiful woods," notes Ken M. about Beaver Creek State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Cast for bass in local waterways during your horse camping trip. "Bass fishing is really fun because we caught a few nice ones!!" reports Mike T. about his experience at Beaver Creek. Several area lakes maintain healthy fish populations throughout the camping season.
Explore historic sites: Visit nearby pioneer villages between trail rides to learn about regional settlement history. "The best part about the area was the history that surrounds it. There is a pioneer village near the park office that offers some picnicking areas around it. It also has original buildings from the pioneer days," shares Shay D.
What campers like
Level equestrian sites: Most horse camping areas provide relatively flat parking areas for trailers. "Most sites are relatively level and suitable for various camping setups," notes William Y. about Jefferson Lake State Park Campground.
Quiet atmosphere: The relative isolation creates peaceful camping conditions for both horses and riders. "This smaller campground has a mix of equestrian sites and tent/RV sites. There are no showers, but the vault toilets were cleaned thoroughly every morning," reports Kimberly about Jefferson Lake.
Spacious campsites: Many equestrian sites offer ample room for both horse trailers and camping equipment. "We got a site near the playground, which my 3 year old enjoyed. The campground wasn't busy and we had a lot of privacy," explains Matt H. about his stay at Beaver Creek State Park.
What you should know
Limited water access: Water filling stations at equestrian campgrounds may have restrictions. "All water fill up towers only have those spigots that are not threaded. Had to hold hose over spigot about 20 min to fill 35 gal," explains Eddie about his experience at Jefferson Lake.
Variable terrain: Some camping areas have challenging topography for tent setups. "The majority of the campsites are also so hilly that you can't put a tent up on a flat spot. We ended up sliding downhill all night because the space we rented was on a hill," advises Alex S.
Limited services: Hidden Hollow Campground offers basic amenities for horse campers. "Very well kept, completely free 1st come campground just outside the very small town of Bloomingdale, OH. Pit toilets and no source of safe, clean water anymore," reports Joe W. Campers should arrive fully supplied.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some equestrian campgrounds feature play areas for children when not riding. "We chose this site because it was the closest one we could find that was still open with electric this time of year to downtown Pittsburgh. Also, because it had great cell/internet service on our hotspots and had a lot of trails," explains Bounding Around about Beaver Creek State Park.
Night sky viewing: Rural horse camping locations offer excellent stargazing opportunities away from light pollution. "The sky was dark enough to see far more stars than you'd see near any larger towns or cities. To cap it off, we laid in our tent dozing off to the sounds of owls and coyotes!" shares Matt H.
Multiple recreation options: Families appreciate diverse activities beyond horseback riding. "Tucked away in southeastern Ohio is a gem of a park for camping, hiking and horse camping. Clean water, restrooms, playground, sand volleyball and basketball court," notes Theresa Tittle R.
Tips from RVers
Electric site planning: RVers with horse trailers should note electrical hookup locations. "Only 5 electric sites. Very clean pit toilets. Well maintained campground. A few equine sites. Only 2 electric eq sites. Electric is a little far behind pad. We almost needed extension cord," cautions Eddie.
Site selection considerations: Choose equestrian sites carefully based on rig size and configuration. "If you're looking for a place for a camper then it would probably be fine since the parking spaces were pretty flat but for a tent I would look elsewhere," advises Alex S. about Jefferson Lake State Park.
Self-sufficiency requirements: RVers should arrive fully stocked. "Not many restaurants or grocery nearby. Better make sure you have what you need before you travel," recommends Eddie, highlighting the limited services available in this rural region.
