Kelly Pines Campground in the Allegheny National Forest offers two non-equestrian sites among its primary equestrian facilities. The traditional campsites feature multiple tent spaces, fire pits with adjustable cooking surfaces, and picnic tables. While no potable water exists at the campground, visitors access water through the river and a non-potable pump. The permanent toilets typically contain toilet paper, but campers must carry out all garbage as no trash service is available. The damp forest environment often requires bringing firewood rather than collecting it on-site. Equestrian camping areas near DuBois cater specifically to horse owners with trailer accommodations and tack storage.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Kelly Pines Campground connects directly to extensive trail networks throughout the forest. Riders access numerous paths from their campsites without needing to transport horses elsewhere. As one camper noted, "Trails galore! Mushrooms everywhere! Quiet and no cellular to distract."
Water activities: Black Moshannon State Park Campground features a distinctive dark-colored lake perfect for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. One visitor remarked, "Great camping area stop a mountain...nice unique lake that is incredibly dark in color. Lilly pads abound with great flowers." The 250-acre lake provides calm waters ideal for kayaking and other non-motorized watercraft.
Hiking explorations: Multiple forest paths wind through the region's state forests, connecting equestrian facilities with scenic viewpoints. "This campground is so beautiful with plenty to do for everyone, tons of hiking along the whole park," explains one Black Moshannon visitor. Educational programs on topics like fly fishing and local ecology run regularly during summer months.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Hearts Content Recreation Area provides well-separated camping areas that create privacy between neighbors. A camper described, "Easy to find a site. Nice size sites that are not on top of each of. We could barely see our 'neighbors' through the trees. Well shaded spots." This spacing particularly benefits those traveling with horses and equipment.
Natural surroundings: The dense forest canopy creates peaceful settings at equestrian campgrounds throughout the region. According to one Hearts Content visitor, "The sites are nestled within a grove of immense pines. Some are large enough for large RV's." Wildlife sightings occur frequently, especially deer approaching campsites during evening hours.
Clean facilities: Despite their rustic nature, equine camping areas maintain well-kept amenities. At Big Country Campground, a reviewer appreciated the "Great store and owners, a nice place to visit," along with "Lots of activities, tons of nearby attractions, fishing, hunting, and hiking."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian campgrounds near DuBois require advance booking, especially during peak riding seasons. Sites with dedicated horse facilities fill quickly during summer and fall. The equine camping areas in Elk State Forest and Moshannon State Forest operate on reservation systems to ensure appropriate spacing for horse trailers.
Limited services: While hook-ups exist at many sites, other amenities may be minimal. At Yellowsnake Camping Area, electric connections and water hookups are available, but no toilets or shower facilities exist. This pattern continues across several equestrian-focused campgrounds in the region.
Weather considerations: The area remains wet throughout much of the camping season. One Kelly Pines visitor advised, "The area is usually damp so don't count in being able to find much dry wood - we stop before driving in for wood." This moisture affects trail conditions and firewood availability at most horse-friendly campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: State parks offer structured learning activities suitable for children. A Black Moshannon visitor shared, "The park also runs a ton of classes for different things like fly fishing, hiking, etc." These programs provide educational experiences while camping with horses.
Playground access: Some facilities include dedicated play areas for younger campers. Hearts Content offers "a clean and well-maintained playground" within its central area, providing entertainment options between trail rides.
Site selection: When bringing children to equestrian campgrounds, choose locations with adequate separation between horse areas and general camping. Snow Shoe Sites provides designated camping zones that keep non-riding family members at safe distances from horse facilities while maintaining group cohesion.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RVers traveling with horses should note varying electrical capacities across facilities. Dark Hollow and Gaswell Equestrian Campgrounds both offer 30-amp and 50-amp connections suitable for larger rigs with living quarters and horse trailers.
Maneuverability challenges: Access roads to some equestrian sites present difficulties for larger vehicles. One Hearts Content visitor warned, "Our only trouble was our GPS brought us in the most difficult way. We suggest avoiding heading south from I80 on Casanova road." Similar navigation issues affect other horse-focused campgrounds in the region's forests.
Tank management: With limited dump stations, plan water usage carefully. A Hearts Content reviewer noted, "Water pressure was very low and took a while to fill tank," which affects RVs with living quarters attached to horse trailers. Carrying additional water containers helps manage extended stays.
