French Creek State Park spans 7,526 acres across Chester and Berks Counties, offering primitive horse camping sites within Loop C where pets are allowed. Located in a hardwood forest at an average elevation of 650 feet, the park experiences cooler temperatures than surrounding areas, with overnight lows often 5-10 degrees below nearby towns. The campground's terrain varies considerably, with some sites requiring careful navigation for those with trailers.
What to Do
Hiking with horses: French Creek State Park features several multi-use trails where horseback riding is permitted. Riders should be prepared for varied terrain as "the trails vary in difficulty, with many labeled as 'more difficult' according to visitor reports." Some trails connect to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site where history buffs can explore 19th-century iron-making operations.
Fishing at multiple lakes: Anglers can try their luck at Scott's Run Lake or Hopewell Lake. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish. Ice fishing is also allowed at both lakes and the ice thickness is monitored," notes one visitor to French Creek State Park.
Swimming and water recreation: Spruce Run Recreation Area offers a lifeguarded swimming area during summer months. "The park is nice during the day" with "a nice picnic area with grills and picnic tables right by the boat landing, where we picnicked and hung out for an afternoon," according to visitors.
What Campers Like
Private, secluded sites: At French Creek State Park, "sites were not on top of each other. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers. Nice area to wash dishes." Loop C sites offer good spacing for horse trailers and camping equipment.
Quality amenities: Hibernia County Park provides well-maintained facilities that visitors appreciate. "Each site has a large picnic table and a fire ring with a built in grill. Plenty of firewood to be found. Great for families," writes one camper. The park charges only $15/night, making it an economical option for horse campers.
Beautiful views: Horse campgrounds near Green Lane offer scenic vistas, particularly at Mountainview Campground where "the fall leaves were so vibrant" and the "entire area is just gorgeous, open country." Campers mention "jaw-dropping" scenery throughout the region, ideal for trail riding enthusiasts.
What You Should Know
Campground rules vary: Alcohol policies differ between parks in the region. French Creek State Park "strictly prohibits alcohol consumption, and rangers regularly patrol the grounds," while some private campgrounds like Starlite Camping Resort permit alcohol.
Hunting seasons affect trail riding: During fall hunting seasons at French Creek State Park, equestrians should wear blaze orange as hunting is permitted in most areas. Check with park offices for current hunting schedules before planning trail rides.
Site terrain challenges: Many sites in the region have rocky terrain. At French Creek, "it was kind of hard to find a level and rock-free spot," and similar conditions exist at other campgrounds. Horse campers should bring appropriate blocking and leveling equipment.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playgrounds and kid-friendly activities: French Creek State Park features "a very nice playground situated conveniently between the loops of the campground. It had some slides, a bridge, lots of monkey bars, ladders to climb on and the best feature was the zip line."
Child-friendly fishing spots: Hibernia County Park offers a special fishing area for younger anglers. "Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too. Great playground," mentions a visitor, making it ideal for families with horses who also enjoy fishing.
Educational opportunities: Families visiting horse campgrounds near Green Lane can combine trail riding with historical education. "Nearby attractions include Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site," where children can learn about early American iron production while parents prepare horses for trail rides.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: When camping with horses at Tuscarora State Park, choose sites carefully. "The sites were super spacious and private. There was enough room for a full overlanding setup, three vehicles, a hammock, two dogs and a two person tent with plenty of room to spare," notes one camper, indicating good potential for horse trailers.
Hookup availability: For those traveling with both horses and RVs, understand the hookup limitations. At French Creek, "Loop C is the only loop that allows pets," making it the required option for horse campers, while some sites offer electric hookups but require self-contained water systems.
Navigating steep terrain: The region's rolling landscape can challenge large rigs with horse trailers. "If you're hauling a big camper you'll need power for the hills" at Starlite Camping Resort, and similar conditions exist at other horse-friendly campgrounds near Green Lane.
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