The Promised Land State Park area offers equestrian camping facilities within a 30-mile radius of Henryville. The region sits at approximately 1,800 feet elevation in Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountains, featuring mixed hardwood forests and multiple small lakes. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing with summer highs reaching the 80s, making spring through fall the primary camping season for horseback riders.
What to do
Horseback trail riding access: Stokes State Forest provides multiple trail options directly accessible from camping areas. "The park is large with many hiking trails and ice fishing (see picture). The only negative is that I had almost no cell reception with Verizon," notes a winter visitor at Pickerel Point Campground.
Paddling opportunities: Many equestrian campers appreciate the multi-activity options at nearby lakes. "Loved camping on Pickerel Point. Kids had a great time! Bathrooms could be cleaned more often but relatively clean," shares one camper. "The road is paved, it makes it easy for the kids to ride bikes, skate etc."
Stargazing locations: The area offers excellent night sky viewing opportunities away from city lights. At Camp Starry Night, one camper reported: "The stars and moon were absolutely amazing. We got some great night shots and the moon is so bright it actually looks like the sun in the photos."
What campers like
Year-round availability: Select equestrian facilities remain open during winter months. As one camper at Pickerel Point notes: "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers."
Private sites: Stokes State Forest campgrounds provide adequate separation between sites. A visitor mentions: "Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents."
Wildlife encounters: The region's natural setting supports diverse wildlife viewing. "Only shortly after we settled into our tent did we hear foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise!" shares a camper at Mountainview Campground.
What you should know
Limited cell coverage: Mobile phone service is inconsistent throughout the area's horse camps. Several campgrounds report spotty service, particularly with certain carriers.
Bathroom conditions vary: Facilities range from well-maintained to basic depending on location and season. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, a visitor noted: "The bathrooms were absolutely disgusting. I thought with COVID they were cleaning them more, but for the entire weekend, someone's #2 remained all over the toilet, floor, and corner wall."
Site reservations needed: Equestrian sites fill quickly during peak season. "We knew I was not staying at the Plaza Hotel. I would definitely stay there again if I return to the area," comments a camper about their experience finding accommodations.
Firewood availability: Most parks restrict outside firewood due to invasive species concerns. Plan to purchase firewood on-site or from approved local vendors near your destination.
Tips for camping with families
Lake-focused sites: For families with horses and children, lakefront sites provide multiple activity options. "Great lake camping...Tent-Cabin. Watch the local roads for potholes," advises a visitor at Pickerel Point Campground.
Playground access: Several equestrian-friendly campgrounds include playground facilities. "Plenty of space on the site for more tents. Site came with bear proof bin for garbage and fire ring," notes a camper at Ocquittunk.
Consider cabin options: For families new to horse camping, cabins offer comfort while still allowing equestrian activities. "Rented a cabin in November (#009) and again in December (#008) of 2021. I favored Cabin 8, the kitchen and bathroom were separated from the main room," shares one visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for RVs with horse trailers: When bringing horses to campgrounds near Henryville, choose pull-through sites when possible. At Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area, a camper reported: "The RV pads were spaced put perfectly and we all had our own picnic table and fire pit. 10/10 would visit again."
Hookup limitations: Many horse campgrounds offer limited electric options. "This park is large and has many different campgrounds. We stayed in lower lake beechwood site 323. Was decent site only downside was fire pit area was very un-level for camping chairs," notes one RVer.
Weather preparation: The area experiences significant seasonal variations. As one camper advises: "You need that wood stove to heat up the cabin. Turning on the oven is a help, but not a good solution. The wood stove definitely heats the room up nicely."
