Equestrian camping options near Highspire, Pennsylvania include several primitive sites with trail access in nearby state forests. Highspire sits along the Susquehanna River at 341 feet elevation with a humid continental climate characterized by four distinct seasons. The region experiences average summer temperatures around 85°F, while winter temperatures often drop below freezing, requiring proper camping preparation during cold months.
What to do
Explore historic Gettysburg: Artillery Ridge Campground offers prime access to Civil War sites. "The campground is approximately a 3 minute drive from everything in the town of Gettysburg. The battlefields are very close as well," notes Dave B. Visitors can take battlefield tours on horseback, a unique way for equestrians to explore the area.
Hike challenging forest trails: Michaux State Forest features rugged terrain with significant elevation changes. "Water is easily found and views like Sunset Rocks are simply gorgeous," writes John S. The forest maintains multiple multi-use trails suitable for hikers and equestrians with primitive camping allowed at designated sites.
Fish at Colonel Denning State Park: Anglers find opportunities at the park's lake where camping and fishing combine for weekend trips. "Great stream right behind the sites. If you stay in lower sites you are near the water and will have to walk up a large hill to get to bathrooms," reports Casey L. The park permits dogs on leash at select sites.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Gettysburg Campground visitors appreciate waterfront sites. "The tent sites have a creek right next to it to listen to in the evening and morning," says Dave G. These sites tend to fill quickly during summer months, so reservations are recommended.
Private forest sites: Many campers value the spacing between sites at Starlite Camping Resort. "Overall the sites were large, with trees between, providing additional privacy. Except for the Plateau sites, which have the amazing view, the rest of the campground had a great tree cover," writes Craig F. The campground accommodates tent and RV campers with water and electric hookups.
Free primitive camping: State forest land offers no-cost options for experienced campers. "Michaux State Forest campgrounds have vault toilets and the sites are well-maintained. I went in late fall and was the only camper at the area I stayed in," reports Jen S. Camping permits can be obtained online for motorized access sites.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds near Highspire operate from April through October with limited winter access. "Michaux State Forest sites fall into 4 categories: Designated motorized sites open April 2 until the 3rd Sunday after Thanksgiving, designated motorized parking lot sites open year-round, primitive backpacking sites open year-round, and primitive cabins," explains Bridget D.
Site terrain challenges: Little Buffalo State Park Campground has varying topography that affects accessibility. "Nice for a smaller campground. Only downfall is we have smaller children and we could not bike from the campground to the pool, it was too far and the hill to get back was too big for them to ride up," notes Paula R. Some sites require careful vehicle positioning due to slopes.
Permit requirements: State forest camping requires free permits obtained in advance. "To obtain a permit, find out where the designated sites are, and/or find out what designated campsites are available, you have to contact the State Forest District Office for the forest you would like to camp in," advises Jen S.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming facilities: Ferryboat Campsites provides water activities for children. "Lots to do very close to water and many things to do in and around camp ground," says Elaine R. The campground offers water access points along the Susquehanna River with full-hookup sites for families with RVs.
Kid-friendly animal experiences: Some campgrounds feature small petting areas. "There is a small goat petting zoo, with very friendly pigmy goats and the camp is extremely pet friendly as long as they are on a leash," notes Avery M. about Ferryboat Campsites.
Playground accessibility: Consider proximity to play areas when booking. "We were in spots 86,85,89 for a month long stay... the only complain we had was people walking through our sites due us being close to the playground and the noise level on the playground," shares lakota M. from Artillery Ridge Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Prepare for varying terrain at state parks. "We have a small 19" travel trailer which was almost impossible to park due to very tight sites," warns Shirley M. about Colonel Denning State Park Campground. Bring leveling blocks and measure site dimensions before arrival.
Power requirements: Hillside campgrounds demand adequate vehicle power. "If you're hauling a big camper you'll need power for the hills," advises Chris G. about Starlite Camping Resort. The campground sits on elevated terrain providing panoramic views but challenging access.
Seasonal site availability: Many campgrounds undergo renovation during off-seasons. "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. The good news is they expect all work done by the summer and it looks like it's going to be really nice," notes Sean M. about Artillery Ridge Campground. Check current status before booking.
