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Equestrian Camping near Elizabethtown, PA

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    Ferryboat Campsites offers horse stables on-site, providing equestrians with direct access to the Susquehanna River area for trail riding opportunities. The campground features water and electric hookups at most sites, with full hookup options available for RVs. The sites along the river offer shade and are level, making them suitable for parking horse trailers. The campground is well-maintained with clean facilities and pet-friendly policies that extend to equine visitors. Overnight horse accommodations require advance booking as the stables have limited capacity. The riverside location creates a peaceful setting for both riders and their horses after a day on the trails.

    Located approximately 25 miles from Elizabethtown, the campground connects to several bridle paths that wind through the surrounding countryside. Horse owners find the combination of river access and trail riding particularly appealing during summer months. Water troughs are available near the stables area, and the campground provides designated areas for tack storage. The family-operated facility maintains regular cleaning schedules for both the main campground and horse areas. Seasonal sites are available for frequent riders who want consistent access to the trails. For those traveling with horses, the campground store stocks basic equine supplies and feed. Many horse campers appreciate the ability to enjoy riverside camping while keeping their horses safely stabled nearby.

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    Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Elizabethtown (14)

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      1. Starlite Camping Resort

      4.7(6)20mi from ElizabethtownRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "Starlight is a nice campground to relax or explore central Pennsylvania."

      "The campground is in a great location with easy access to Lancaster, Hershey and many other places to explore."

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      2. French Creek State Park Campground

      4.2(83)43mi from Elizabethtown227 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "We were looking for someplace close to the city but away from the hustle and bustle of our city life, this was the perfect little steal-away; relatively close by, great car camping spots, nice easy hikes"

      "Campground Review: French Creek State Park Campground is located in Elverson, Pennsylvania and sits adjacent to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site."

      from $20 - $75 / night

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      3. Little Buffalo State Park Campground

      4.5(19)37mi from Elizabethtown52 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "A playground is near bathhouse in the campground, along with several hiking trails. The dump station is easily accessible. Firewood is also available for purchase at the campground."

      "The driving path is gravel with a steep hill at the end so if you can help it I would avoid sites 32,34,36 as they are VERY difficult to back into with larger rigs."

      from $22 - $92 / night

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      4. Artillery Ridge Campground

      4.3(26)41mi from ElizabethtownRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "This park is a perfect location if you want to explore Gettysburg National Historical Site as you can literally walk across the street and be in the park or venture½ mile up the road and you come to the"

      "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded."

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      5. Gettysburg Campground

      4.0(26)43mi from ElizabethtownRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "I always appreciate the near solitude experience of this campground as 90% of the sites are RV sites, that are kept away from the tenting area."

      "If you’re looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn’t it."

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      6. Ferryboat Campsites

      4.0(6)34mi from ElizabethtownRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "With that said they do have primitive camping spots next to the putt putt course and water only tent sits at the upper feild."

      "Lots to do very close to water and many things to do in and around camp ground. Stayed for a few days would go back."

      from $30 - $100 / night

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      7. Colonel Denning State Park Campground

      4.8(9)44mi from Elizabethtown50 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Cleanest facilities of the year so far, amazing large flat sites, dog friendly and great stream right behind the sites."

      "We stayed in site 28 which was a walk-in site, this was perfect for us since we wanted to be further away from people and the light from the bathroom/shower facility."

      from $20 - $38 / night

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      8. Hibernia County Park

      4.0(8)41mi from ElizabethtownTents, Glamping

      "This campground has 2 small loops, the Lake Loop and the Fiddler's Loop. Lake loop is the bigger of the two, however the “sites” are smaller and it's more open. It is popular with group tenters."

      "Large campsites at the Lake Loop. Map is a little deceiving- the sites are farther from the lake than I expected and there are no running water bathrooms. Very clean and wooded sites."

      from $15 - $50 / night

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      9. Michaux State Forest

      4.0(6)45mi from ElizabethtownRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "Some reviewers have confused nearby State Parks with the actual State Forest, resulting in inaccurate information."

      "Every January for the last few years some friends and I have gone and camped along the Appalachian Trail."

      from $10 / night

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      10. Haldeman Tract Campsites — Weiser State Forest

      Be the first to review27mi from Elizabethtown9 sitesRVs, Tents

      from $10 / night

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    Equestrian Camping Reviews near Elizabethtown, PA

    189 Reviews of 14 Elizabethtown Campgrounds

    • Nancy W.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jul. 30, 2021

      Artillery Ridge Campground

      Great Location to Battlefield

      This park is a perfect location if you want to explore Gettysburg National Historical Site as you can literally walk across the street and be in the park or venture½ mile up the road and you come to the park’s main visitor center. The campground has a bunch of different sites whether you want to spend more money for a premium full hook-up or save a few bucks and just get water and electric. There are lots of tent sites, cabins, and horse stalls with a corral for those traveling with horses. The park is also very close to the historic downtown so you don’t have to drive too far for the attractions. 

      We were able to do contactless check-in by making the reservation and paying over the phone. When we arrived, they had a packet out on a picnic table for us with directions to our site and information about the park and the surrounding area. But, the best part of the check-in was that we got a free bundle of wood and the cutest little s’mores packet which had just enough fixings for the two of us. Such a great touch that we really appreciated. We had a gravel pull thru site which was easy to navigate in and out of with our tow car attached and was plenty long enough. The roads are gravel but were not dusty. The site and patio were gravel and a mix of grass. The campground was very clean and well-cared for. 

      Some of the sites are in the open without much shade but some other areas have some nice shade.  Most of the tent section is pretty open with a few trees scattered about.  Some of the sites (i.e., 82) is very close to the playground and the fishing pond which get quite a bit of action so be aware of the nearby amenities when you choose a site.  

      This park is well-suited for people traveling with horses. There are multiple pens and a fenced riding arena and ample RV sites and cabins in the near the horse stalls and there is a hose wash rack. 

      Some of the things we liked about this park:

      • There is a big section of the park dedicated to horses as the National Riding Stables are located on the grounds. You can get guided tours of the battlefield on their rescue horses.

      • A 24/7 firewood dispensing machine– which we had never seen before• Catch and release fishing pond• Free putt putt golf.

      • Heated swimming pool

      • Clean, well-kept campground• Lots of activities for kids with playgrounds, volleyball basketball, game room, camp store, movies, pool, etc.

      We paid $44/night for our full hook-up site (#45) which we didn’t think was too expensive or unreasonable. Luckily for us, nobody was next to us during our stay (in May) as the neighboring sites were pretty close and this campground probably feels very tight when it’s full. The close proximity to Gettysburg NHS was the biggest plus of this park for us.

    • Amanda K.
      Aug. 14, 2022

      French Creek State Park Campground

      Reviews are misleading, they don’t offer what they use to

      I’m sure one point in time this use to be a 4-5 star campground. It is a far stretch from that today.

      PROS:

      AT&T / Cricket cell service Paved loops good for bicycles

      CONS:

      The large pool you see in pictures, is not operating.

      The kayak/canoe rentals is not operating.

      It is prohibited to take a swim in the lake.

      A majority of the campsites are small and stacked right on top of each-other. Ours, C15, was a rocky terrain making it difficult for our children to walk around.

      Loop A has many parking pads that are on a significant sloop making it very difficult to level your camper/rv

      The bathrooms don’t seem to be well maintained or cleaned.

      No camp store

      No place to buy firewood

      THE WORST PART - The park rangers are on the boarder-line of harassment. They constantly patrol the area and seek out reasons to write tickets. We have witnessed them rummaging around peoples campsites when they were away from their sites. It doesn’t take much to do something wrong. Your vehicle tires must be on the pavement pad, they cannot be touching the grass. If your vehicle cannot fit it must go in “over flow parking” which isn’t close by. Any evidence of alcohol is surly a fine.

      NEARBY ATTRACTIONS: Hopewell Furnace Historical Site Birdsboro Preserve St. Peters Classic Auto Mall Museum Ryerss Farm for aged equestrians

    • MJ B.
      Jun. 19, 2024

      Artillery Ridge Campground

      Camping as close to history as you can get

      Spent a weekend at Gettysburg. We camped at Artillery Ridge Campground, which served as an artillery storage/staging area for the Union during the battle. Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts. So close to history. We have been to Gettysburg before, but going with the kids again being older, we all had a greater appreciation of the sacrifice of this 3-day battle. We did Park Ranger tours to learn about the 1st shot and how the war started to stand in the footsteps of General Buford at Senitary Ridge in the cupola overseeing the battlefield. Later in the day we took a horse carriage ride through the battlefields, Picketts Charge and the peach orchard with a private guide to learn every ounce of the battlefield and the major players to learn about the 3 days of fighting that took place to how the civilians of Gettysburg were impacted. The three day battle claimed over 50,000 lives and we toured the town of Gettysburg to learn how the community had to deal with the aftermath of the masses who perished, the smell which went on for over 30 miles and limited resources such as clean water. It's amazing to see how history was so preserved but right across the street from battlefields where so many died stands fast food restaurants, and hotels. A little surreal. Would definitely recommend a ride out to Gettysburg and this campground, which is right next to the battlefields. Clean facilities. If you are into horses, this is the place for you! Though sites are not very private, everyone is very respectful, and you are not on top of each other. Quiet hours are observed, which is nice too. Store has a great variety of souviners, treats, and emergency camping items. You can't get any closer to history than here. Would definitely recommend if you are looking to visit Gettysburg.

    • Avery M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 1, 2018

      Ferryboat Campsites

      Great little site with lots of seasonal residents.

      This is a wonderful little campsite primarily catering the seasonal RVer. With that said they do have primitive camping spots next to the putt putt course and water only tent sits at the upper feild. There are also water/electric sites in a loop behind the honeymooner cabins, and they have teh best shade and set up for hammock camping.

      The ferry here is real, and has been in operation for the last 100+ years

      There is a small goat petting zoo, with very friendly pigmy goats and the camp is extremely pet friendly as long as they are on a leash.

      There is the typical camp store, and in addition there is the icecream store next to the river. Across the street is a local winery with the best views of the river around.

      The campsite fills quickly on the weekends, kayakers and fishers, and motorboats use this as the weekend home and mini family vacation spots.

      The showers are located in the RV section of the campground, so you will have to walk a bit if you are tent camping.

      There are horse stable available as well on site.

    • B
      Sep. 1, 2022

      Michaux State Forest

      Motorized and Primitive Sites, but double check info.

      Some reviewers have confused nearby State Parks with the actual State Forest, resulting in inaccurate information. Despite their proximity, Caledonia and Pine Grove Furnace State Parks are NOT considered State Forest land, and have completely different amenities, availability, and regulations.

      Michaux State Forest sites fall in to 4 categories:

      1. Designated motorized sites, which require a free online permit and are open April 2 until the 3rd Sunday after Thanksgiving

      2. Designated motorized parking lot sites, which require the same free online permit but are open year-round

      3. Primitive backpacking sites, open year-round (no permit required, should be at least 1 mi from a trailhead, and only 1 night per site allowed)

      4. Primitive Cabins, which are on State Forest land but are managed by and booked through the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club.

      None of the sites available in Michaux have:

      -electric or water hookups. If you used/saw one, you were in a State Park, not Forest.

      -drinking water available at sites (some have a creek or springhouse, which must be treated first)

      -restrooms (a very small number of sites have outhouses within 1/4 mi or so, but don't count on it)

      All designated sites have some sort of fire ring, whether stones or metal.

      Some, but not all, designated sites have picnic tables.

      Cell service varies greatly. Some sites will have none without a decent drive or hike, while others have 4 bars.

      Fires are not permitted at all from March 1 to May 25, and are also banned when fire danger is deemed too high.

      Alcohol is permitted, except in picnic areas.

      Designated motorized parking lot sites also serve as equestrian sites, and horse camping is allowed here. Teaberry has a few hitching posts and a two step mounting block available.

      Pets are allowed as long as they are under control at all times and are not disturbing others. If your dog's recall is anything but perfect, they haven't earned the privilege. Use a leash or long line; remember that if your out-of-control dog gets into a fight with an aggressive but leashed dog, the fault is yours. It's not worth two sets of vet bills.

      This is my go-to local place for camping and hiking alike. Michaux sits on the northern terminus of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and though they are scarcely more than foothills here compared to their majesty in more well-known areas like TN, NC, and VA, it is a place of peace and beauty all the same. Like much of the state, it's a young mixed deciduous and coniferous forest, with some open and sparsely wooded prairie/meadow sections.

    • Laure D.The Dyrt PRO User
      Apr. 24, 2021

      French Creek State Park Campground

      Feels crowded

      This PA state park felt, upon first impression, very tightly spaced and had an overall crowded feel in loop C, the only dog friendly electric loop. The sites that aren’t ADA have more space between them than we did.  Our site C41 was full hookup as are several others (1-7, 39-47). This is an ADA site, there are several of them. Perhaps this is why it’s crowded so they could fit extra ADA sites? They are very level and have paved pads, but also a paved picnic pad, and paved fire ring pad. Non ADA full hookup sites appeared to be the nicest though they were narrow and some weren’t level side to side. There were a lot of rocks embedded in the ground around and on many sites. Non ADA sites have only a paved pad for the RV. The picnic table and fire ring were behind our RV and when sitting at them, we were within view of sites 37, 39, and 40. I felt like I was in a townhouse setting. Non ADA sites varied as to where picnic and fire rings were set. Also many sites looked like there was quite a drop off at the edge of the already narrow pad so that you had a big step down off your last RV step. Site C42 is ADA and is a nice, semi private, spacious site. Though I’d choose from sites  #1-7 next time. ALL parking pads are 45’ long.

      Loop B has a mix of electric and non electric but doesn’t allow pets. That loop was more spacious and had trees between some  sites so it felt  more private. The sites appeared level. There are Yurts and mini cabins outside Loop C that had lots of space around them. Loop A is a pet loop but no electric. However, it’s closed now for what appears to be renovations. Loop D is non electric, no pets.

      The campground had no vacancy on this particular weekend. One car allowed per site and most had to park perpendicular. Sites were short (45’ long). 2nd cars are $5 a night but wouldn’t fit in most sites.

      The day use areas have frisbee golf, boat rentals, fishing, hunting, hiking, and a pool that overlooks the lake. Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site is adjacent to the park but was not fully open due to covid. It’s a large state park. The pool was nice looking but not open until Memorial Day. Boat rentals are available weekends in May and Sept. and daily all summer. These amenities were far from the campground and would require driving your car. Hiking trails were plentiful but most were labeled as “more difficult.”  Horse back riding is allowed on some trails. I didn’t see any trails that started at the campground loops. 

      Overall, it’s an adequate campground but not my favorite.

    • R
      Oct. 31, 2020

      Artillery Ridge Campground

      Pretty much on the battlefield

      We stayed at this campground during the COVID pandemic so not much was open at the campground. But from the looks of it they have a small mini golf area, nice size basketball court and a good size building for activities. This campground has horse stalls and rings if you would like to bring your own horses. There were a few families that brought their horses and they were right across from our site. Kids loved being able to see them and get close and even pet them!

      This campground is minutes from town and is practically on the battlefield.

    • Christina S.
      Aug. 13, 2017

      French Creek State Park Campground

      Great local getaway

      We were looking for someplace close to the city but away from the hustle and bustle of our city life, this was the perfect little steal-away; relatively close by, great car camping spots, nice easy hikes, there's a lake but unfortunately you can't swim in it, they have a public pool but we opted for hiking instead.

    • Z
      Jul. 5, 2021

      Artillery Ridge Campground

      Amazing 4th of July Weekend

      The staff are very friendly and helpful. The campground was very well maintained and clean. Bathhouse is updated and clean. The RV sites are gravel and pretty level. Fun filled weekend of activities for the whole family. Close to historic Gettysburg battleground. Fantastic horse rescue on the campground. You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback. Nice catch and release pond in campground. Will definitely be returning.

    Guide to Elizabethtown

    Camping options near Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania offer diverse terrain across the Susquehanna River Valley, with elevations ranging from 300 to 1,200 feet throughout the region. The area experiences four distinct seasons with mild springs, warm summers reaching 85-90°F, and fall temperatures cooling to the 60s. Located within an hour's drive of multiple state parks and forests, campers can access both riverside sites and wooded highlands.

    What to do

    Hiking trails: Colonel Denning State Park provides access to the challenging Flat Rock Trail. "A six mile round trip with a 1200 ft climb. Spectacular views. The park rangers had an owl program on Friday night and ended up calling in several screech owls. Very cool to hear their eerie cries in the woods," notes one visitor at Colonel Denning State Park Campground.

    Water activities: French Creek State Park offers kayaking and fishing opportunities across two lakes. "There are two lakes in French Creek, Hopewell and Scott's Run and each contain many species of fish. We spent Saturday afternoon fishing but not catching anything at Scott's Run. It's a beautiful location and it was still a fun way to spend the day with the kids away from the site," reports a camper at French Creek State Park Campground.

    Historical exploration: The Gettysburg area provides educational opportunities within a 45-minute drive from Elizabethtown. "The campground connects to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts. So close to history," explains a visitor to Artillery Ridge Campground who appreciates the historical significance.

    What campers like

    Peaceful water settings: Little Buffalo State Park offers a calm lakeside environment with diverse activities. "The whole entire park is beautiful!!! Stayed here a few times and it's always clean and well maintained, always something to do here... the lake is awesome to relax on, fishing, boating, swimming in the pool, tons of hiking trails, lots of history," shares a camper from Little Buffalo State Park Campground.

    Affordable primitive options: Michaux State Forest provides free camping with minimal amenities. "Michaux State Forest campgrounds have vault toilets and the sites are well-maintained. I went in late fall and was the only camper at the area I stayed in. Unfortunately you cannot reserve sites online and it's a little tricky, but it's free..." explains a visitor who enjoyed the solitude at Michaux State Forest.

    Family-friendly activities: Starlite Camping Resort offers structured entertainment for all ages. "Starlite offers a wide variety of amenities such as a community pool, general store, snack bar, playground area, toilets, indoor shower stalls, daily activities, pets permitted, water/electric utilities and laundry units. Staff was very friendly!" reports a visitor who appreciated the organized offerings.

    What you should know

    Permit requirements: When staying at state forests near Elizabethtown, understand the permit system. "Camping is free in several areas throughout Michaux State Forest (as well as other PA State Forests), BUT you usually need to have a camping permit (also free) and you can only stay in designated campsites," explains a camper at Michaux State Forest.

    Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Hibernia County Park has restricted availability: "This campground is only open on the weekends, in season. Sites can be reserved online, by phone, or by 'first come, first served' self-registration."

    Cost variations: State parks typically have standardized rates while private campgrounds vary. "For an electric site it was the standard State Park fee of 33.50 per night. Also, since this is a State Park there is no alcohol allowed. The Park Rangers drive by regularly which is nice in case you are having any problems."

    Tips for camping with families

    Pool access: Little Buffalo State Park offers excellent swimming facilities separate from camping areas. "They offer a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones! There is also a splash pad! There are 2 slides for fun! No food allowed in the pool but you can bring picnic lunch for outside the pool," advises a parent from Hibernia County Park.

    Quiet locations: Seek out campgrounds known for enforcing quiet hours. "It was quiet and our neighbors were respectful of the quiet hours and our space. It was a wonderfully peaceful weekend for us all and we will definitely visit again soon."

    Kid-friendly fishing spots: Several parks offer dedicated children's fishing areas. "Lake Campground great for families. The lake is about a 3 minute hike down the clearly marked trails. The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing."

    Tips from RVers

    Site selection for equestrian camping near Elizabethtown: When bringing horses for trail riding, look for designated equestrian sites. "Designated motorized parking lot sites also serve as equestrian sites, and horse camping is allowed here. Teaberry has a few hitching posts and a two step mounting block available," notes a camper familiar with facilities for those seeking horse-friendly camping options near Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania.

    Leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "The sites are mostly grass, and not very well defined which means the distance between you and your neighbor can vary depending on how you set up camp. As I said in the first paragraph, we mostly camp in a 28ft 5th wheel and though at first glance the sites don't look big enough to house an RV, there are a few sites that will. They aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix."

    Hookup limitations: Understand utility availability varies widely. "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank. There is one spigot at the 'bathroom'... There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee."

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Elizabethtown, PA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Elizabethtown, PA is Starlite Camping Resort with a 4.7-star rating from 6 reviews.

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