12 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Teaberry Parking Area in Michaux State Forest provides limited equestrian camping options near Fannettsburg. The parking lot sites serve as equestrian sites with a few hitching posts and a two-step mounting block available for horse owners. Sites are spaced along one side of a large gravel lot with parking on the edge, creating a feeling similar to camping in a parking lot with a view of trees on one side. The campground requires a free online permit and is open year-round, allowing horse camping with minimal facilities.
Trail access from Michaux State Forest connects riders to the northern terminus of the Blue Ridge Mountains. While the mountains are smaller here than in Tennessee, North Carolina, and Virginia, the area offers peaceful riding through young mixed deciduous and coniferous forest with some open prairie sections. Horse camping is permitted only at designated motorized parking lot sites throughout the forest. No drinking water, hookups, or restrooms are available at any sites, though some have a creek or springhouse nearby requiring water treatment before use. All designated sites include fire rings, and some feature picnic tables. Alcohol is permitted except in picnic areas, and pets must be under control at all times to prevent conflicts with horses and other campers.
"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
Check Availability"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
Check Availability"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."
"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."
"Campground reeks of horse manure 24/7. Was pleased by the quiet despite size of campground and proximity to highway. Sites not overly large or private."
"The morning drive started early, had several stops and starts, and I was once again glad that my big dog was along for the ride."
from $20 - $110 / night
Check Availability"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
Check Availabilityfrom $10 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $10 / night
Check Availability"This site is accessed by driving up a bit of a winding dirt road up the mountain. "
from $10 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $10 / night
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TravelerCampground reeks of horse manure 24/7. Was pleased by the quiet despite size of campground and proximity to highway. Sites not overly large or private. Has wood vending machine at entrance for firewood. Hiking loop around lake is beautiful. Jean bonnet tavern nearby recommended for a great meal in a historic setting.
LegendThis 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.
GuideSpent 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.
TravelerSome 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.
GuideWe 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.
GuideThe 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.
TravelerI had made plans to stay at SSP-PA as my first stopover spot, post leaving my beach friends on the East Coast. The morning drive started early, had several stops and starts, and I was once again glad that my big dog was along for the ride. Shawnee is a lovely state park and I was really pleased with my brief stay. 'Though we were only sleeping the one night, I found the staff to be pleasant and the site spacious. It might have helped that the doggo and I were about the only ones in our campground loop, aside from the campground hosts but the area felt well-maintained and well-proportioned. We had a good night's rest, after enjoying a post-dinner campfire and getting to breathe in the fresh, woodsy air. While sitting fireside, I got to enjoy the local wildlife, from birds to young deer, around the edges of my campsite. The campground restroom was clean and a fair size. I would definitely recommend it and I will certainly look into another reservation, the next time I roadtrip through Pennsylvania.
GuideThis was our third stay here on our somewhat annual family meetup in Gettysburg. 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. The tenting area is calm and has a creek right next to it to listen to in the evening and morning. One of the drawbacks of this campground is that a lot of the trees are black walnut trees and the squirrels do not shy away from dropping the walnuts like bombs on your head, car, or table when you're preparing breakfast.
Gear Review: I won a pair of Treadagain sandals for one of my last campground reviews and this was the first camping trip that I took with them. When I initially bought them, they gave me an abrasion cut and I contemplated sending them back, but after wearing them more, they became more comfortable and I have found them to be ideal for walking around in all day since they have thick bottoms.
GuideShawnee State Park is about 2.5 hours east of Pittsburgh, and it has pretty much everything: swimming, fishing, boating, camping, and fairly decent hiking. It's close to some really great hiking--just outside the park--and that's how I ended up there. I was trekking on the very wild Mid-State Trail, nearby, when I opted for a night at the conventional campground in Shawnee. No regrets. I usually avoid car-camping because I don't want to listen to other people's classic rock in the woods. But this place was great. I came midweek, so I had the campground mostly to myself. The showers are hot and clean. The lake is beautiful with a nice swimming beach. The area around the park has all the scenic and historic attractions of central PA: covered bridges, big stone farmhouses, quaint towns. My only complaint is that the PA Turnpike screams a little too close by. Also, the sites are pretty close together, so be sure to look at a campground map beforehand to reserve one of the more isolated ones.
Camping options near Fannettsburg, Pennsylvania center around Michaux State Forest, which sits at elevations between 800-2,000 feet in the northern Blue Ridge Mountains. The region receives approximately 42 inches of annual rainfall, creating diverse forest ecosystems. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer camping conditions typically range from 60-85°F with moderate humidity.
Hiking trails: Access the Appalachian Trail from multiple points near Fannettsburg. "Every January for the last few years some friends and I have gone and camped along the Appalachian Trail. You can park at Pine Grove State Park and then hike your way into locations or park at other trail heads. Water is easily found and views like Sunset Rocks are simply gorgeous," notes John S. about Michaux State Forest.
Fishing opportunities: Visit Shawnee State Park's 451-acre lake for fishing, with largemouth bass, northern pike, and panfish populations. "The lake and the trails around it are beautiful. Great swimming and kayaking/small boating," shares Casey S. about Shawnee State Park Campground.
Historical sites: Explore Gettysburg battlefield locations just 45 minutes from Fannettsburg. "The campground is approximately a 3 minute drive from everything in the town of Gettysburg. The battlefields are very close as well," explains Dave B. about Artillery Ridge Campground.
Water recreation: Cool off at Little Buffalo State Park's swimming facilities during summer months. "There is 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," according to Amanda H.
Private overlooks: Find secluded spots with valley views in the surrounding state forests. "Just behind the upper tent site is the top of the mountain, and the site has their own private overlook to the valley below," describes Scott I. about Rothrock Roadside Campsites.
Winter camping access: Several state forest sites remain open year-round, unlike many seasonal campgrounds. "Designated motorized parking lot sites require the same free online permit but are open year-round," notes Bridget D. about Michaux State Forest.
Clean facilities: Many nearby state parks maintain excellent bathroom facilities. "The bathhouse is very nice and clean," shares Casey L. about Colonel Denning State Park Campground, while Paula R. confirms "Bathrooms are clean" at Little Buffalo State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Experience diverse fauna in the surrounding forests. "Wildlife is everywhere and there is even an eagle nest in the park and you can see the pair and often their young," mentions Dawn N. about Little Buffalo State Park.
Permit requirements: Most state forest sites require free permits obtained online before arrival. "You need a free online permit and sites are open April 2 until the 3rd Sunday after Thanksgiving," explains Bridget D.
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds have uneven sites requiring careful selection. "We have a motorhome with no additional vehicle and two dogs, and this site couldn't have been more perfect for us," shares Justine I. about Artillery Ridge Campground.
Water access limitations: Few campgrounds provide drinking water at sites. "None of the sites available in Michaux have drinking water available at sites (some have a creek or springhouse, which must be treated first)," warns Bridget D.
Seasonal pest issues: Prepare for potential insect encounters, especially in warmer months. "The first 3.5 days there were lantern flies actively trying to get into our rig, digging themselves behind the window screens, etc. and then day 4 they were gone," reports j A. about Teaberry Parking Area.
Playground access: Choose campgrounds with dedicated children's areas. "Nice little fishing pond. The camp store has everything that any camper could need, and the game room is really nice," recommends Dave B.
Trail difficulty assessment: Check trail ratings before hiking with children. "Trail head close to site and was a very difficult hike with amazing views!" notes Casey L. about Colonel Denning State Park.
Educational programs: Take advantage of ranger-led activities for children. "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," shares Nate & Erika L. about Gettysburg Campground.
Swimming options: Plan for water activities during summer visits. "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!" highlights Amanda H. about Little Buffalo State Park.
Site leveling needs: Carefully research site grades when booking RV spots. "Most of the non-electric sites were decidedly not level but many of the FHU and electric sites were fairly level, and we did not have a problem finding one," advises Lee D. about Shawnee State Park.
Access road conditions: Consider vehicle capabilities when accessing remote campgrounds. "Appalachian mountain range, not bad with 4wheel drive. Stayed first at camp, moved to atv parking. Very remote and atvs in and out," cautions Carolyn K. about Michaux State Forest.
Parking limitations: Horse campgrounds near Fannettsburg, Pennsylvania often have restricted parking configurations. "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," notes Lee D.
Hookup availability: Confirm utility connections before booking equestrian camping sites near Fannettsburg. "No drinking water, hookups, or restrooms are available at any sites," confirms Bridget D. about Michaux State Forest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Fannettsburg, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Fannettsburg, PA is Michaux State Forest with a 4-star rating from 6 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 12 equestrian camping locations near Fannettsburg, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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