Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area at Promised Land State Park offers dedicated camping facilities for horse enthusiasts 15 miles from Gouldsboro. The camping area connects to multiple forest trails suitable for riding, with terrain primarily consisting of flat, easy paths. In winter months, certain campsites maintain electric hookups while water access points are winterized, requiring campers to use nearby water sources for both themselves and their animals.
What to Do
Trail riding on Conservation Loop: The Conservation Nature Loop provides a flat, easy trail perfect for beginning riders or those seeking gentle terrain. According to one camper at Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area, "We hiked 2 short easy trails (Little Falls and the Conservation Nature Loop- which we drove to). Absolutely beautiful!"
Lakeside activities: Both lakes at Promised Land State Park offer multiple access points for recreation. A visitor to Pickerel Point Campground noted, "The lake is crystal clear and the beach is spotless. You absolutely have to bring a kayak/inflatable boat, but if you don't own one, don't worry, you can rent one."
Winter exploration: Some camping areas remain open year-round with modified facilities. One camper mentioned, "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers. The park is large with many hiking trails and ice fishing."
What Campers Like
Spacious campsites: The equestrian area offers sites designed for both camping equipment and horse containment. At Keen Lake Resort Campground, which also accommodates various camping styles, a visitor observed, "The RV sites are spaced out nicely. There are plenty of things to do; paddle boats, row boats, swimming pool, snack bar/campstore, activities, etc."
Bathroom cleanliness: Despite high visitor numbers, facilities remain well-maintained. One camper at Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area reported, "Went tent camping for 3 nights, easy to get to, bathrooms were clean and so was the site. Sites were a good size and not on top of each other."
Natural surroundings: The wooded setting creates a peaceful camping environment. A visitor to Lackawanna State Park commented, "We like Lackawanna State Park. This is the place we camped when we moved to PA. It has sites that are very wooded. Some are a little close to each other, but others offer plenty of space."
What You Should Know
No dedicated corrals: Equestrian campers must bring their own containment equipment as the park does not provide horse corrals.
Reservation requirements: Peak seasons fill quickly at equestrian sites. Advance booking is essential, typically opening 11 months in advance through the Pennsylvania state park reservation system.
Site surface conditions: Terrain at some nearby campgrounds may present challenges for tent campers. A visitor to Stokes State Forest noted, "Most of the campsites were very rocky, but you can find some that have a little bit of grass."
Seasonal restrictions: Operating seasons vary across area campgrounds. At Pickerel Point, one camper mentioned, "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by."
Tips for Camping with Families
Paved roads for kids: The campground roads provide safe recreation spaces for children. A camper at Pickerel Point observed, "Love that the road is paved, it makes it easy for the kids to ride bikes, skate etc."
Swimming options: Multiple water recreation areas accommodate different preferences. One visitor noted, "The kids had a great time! Bathrooms could be cleaned more often but relatively clean. The museum and crafts were closed due to Covid so that was a bummer but we found other things to do."
Educational opportunities: When available, campground programs provide structured activities. At Ocquittunk, a camper shared, "We camp here several times a year and have never had a bad experience. Camp host is always most helpful and the park is always clean and well maintained. Great pool, lake, hiking etc."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Equestrian sites feature electrical connections suitable for RVs. At Pickerel Point, a visitor mentioned, "We had full hookups (20/30/50 amp, water & sewer). There's no cable but we were able to pickup about 6 channels with our digital antenna."
Site selection: Choose locations based on proximity to trails versus facilities. One camper at Lackawanna State Park noted, "Stayed in the fairly new ledges loop that are all full hookup sites. Nice large sites, beautiful area, friendly rangers."
Access considerations: Some roads leading to campgrounds may present challenges. A reviewer cautioned, "Great lake camping...Tent-Cabin. Watch the local roads for potholes."
