Equestrian camping options near Mont Alto, Pennsylvania are located within a diverse landscape of the northern Blue Ridge Mountains foothills, with elevations ranging from 630 to 2,100 feet. The region experiences all four seasons distinctly, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Most equestrian-friendly campsites in the area are available from April through late November, though some designated sites remain accessible year-round.
What to do
Battlefield horseback tours: Take guided tours of Gettysburg on rescue horses from the National Riding Stables at Gettysburg Campground. "Great spot. Nice creek with ducks. Close to battlefield," notes Jenny P., highlighting the campground's convenient access to historical sites.
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line at the on-site pond at Artillery Ridge Campground. "My husband caught a fish first day in the pond behind our site," shares Justine I., who appreciated the campground's pet-friendly amenities and walkable access to attractions.
Hiking trails: Explore the Appalachian Trail sections accessible from Michaux State Forest. "Water is easily found and views like Sunset Rocks are simply gorgeous," reports John S., who uses these trails for winter camping expeditions that have built his confidence for more primitive camping styles.
What campers like
Privacy and space: Tent sites at Colonel Denning State Park Campground offer separation from busier areas. "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," writes Tiff T., who found the slight hill to reach their site a worthwhile trade-off for privacy.
Horse-friendly facilities: Designated motorized parking lot sites in Michaux State Forest accommodate equestrians with hitching posts at select locations. "Teaberry has a few hitching posts and a two step mounting block available," mentions Bridget D., who clarifies that these sites require free online permits and are open year-round.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the exceptional maintenance standards. "Bathhouse is very nice and clean," reports Casey L. about Colonel Denning, while Greg W. notes at Artillery Ridge that "The sites were very clean, no trash, and pretty level" with "clean restrooms" available.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Michaux State Forest camping requires different permits based on site type. "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 Jen S., detailing the sometimes confusing permit process.
Site spacing considerations: Some campgrounds have tighter arrangements than others. "While the area is beautiful, we were not impressed with the campground. We have a small 19" travel trailer which was almost impossible to park due to very tight sites," shares Shirley M. about her experience at Colonel Denning State Park Campground.
Seasonal pest issues: Be prepared for potential insect encounters during certain times. "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. It was traumatic," warns a camper about their stay at Teaberry Parking Area in Michaux State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Little Buffalo State Park Campground offers excellent swimming facilities for children. "The pool is very nice! They offer a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones! There is also a splash pad!" explains Amanda H., though she notes campers still must pay separately for pool access.
Kid-friendly campground activities: Choose campgrounds with organized events. "The whole campground was clean and well kept. Fun filled weekend of activities for the whole family," reports Zack about Artillery Ridge Campground, mentioning their Fourth of July weekend programming.
Historical learning opportunities: Many campgrounds provide access to educational experiences. "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," describes MJ B., highlighting the value of incorporating history into family camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose camping spots based on your specific needs. "If you're looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn't it. If you are looking for a campground that is very close to an historical National Park not to mention shopping and restaurants, this is for you," advises Jim G. about Gettysburg Campground, noting its full hookups with cable work well despite sites being close together.
Leveling considerations: Check site terrain before setting up. "Site was pretty level," notes Brett D. about his experience with a 21-foot popup camper at Artillery Ridge, which made for an easier setup process at their pull-through site.
Seasonal renovations: Be aware of ongoing improvements that might affect your stay. "The only issue is there is a lot of construction at the moment. No pool, no mini golf, and a lot of sites are closed," observed Sean M. at Artillery Ridge, though he appreciated the responsive customer service when water service was briefly interrupted.
