Promised Land State Park provides equestrian accommodations and trail access approximately 30 miles southwest of Honesdale, Pennsylvania. The elevation ranges from 1,750 to 1,900 feet, creating varied terrain that allows for year-round horse camping opportunities. Winter temperatures drop to an average of 28°F while summer days reach around 76°F, making spring through fall the optimal seasons for equestrian camping.
What to do
Trail riding: Explore the extensive network of trails at Lackawanna State Park Campground. The trail system allows riders to experience diverse terrain. "The trails are fun for relaxing hikes, we especially like the one right along the lake," notes Michael, who visited the park.
Water activities: Access the multiple lakes and ponds throughout the region for fishing and boating while camping with horses. At Keen Lake Resort Campground, campers report excellent access to water recreation. Shannon C. shared: "We had SUPs and kayaks to take on the lake and our sites were right next to the boat launch. Each day we would paddle over to the swimming area on the lake."
Nature observation: The region's forested landscape provides opportunities to spot wildlife while on horseback trails. "The kids caught multiple sunnies and even a small perch," according to Shannon C. at Keen Lake, indicating the fishing opportunities available at water features near the trails.
What campers like
Trail variety: The mix of flat and hilly terrain suits different riding abilities. At Pickerel Point Campground, which connects to multiple trail systems, Kelly F. noted: "The trails were beautiful, recommend little falls trail."
Lake access: Many equestrian sites offer direct water access for horses. Paula R. commented about Pickerel Point: "Loved camping on Pickerel Point. Kids had a great time! Love that the road is paved, it makes it easy for the kids to ride bikes, skate etc."
Clean facilities: Despite heavy use by horses and riders, the bathroom and shower facilities remain well-maintained. "Bathrooms could be cleaned more often but relatively clean," mentions Paula R. about Pickerel Point, while Debbie W. adds: "This place is absolutely stunning. The lake is crystal clear and the beach is spotless."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Horse camping sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "We were told almost all sites were full but upon arrival the vast majority of sites were empty which made for a quiet/relaxing night," reports Josh S. about Stokes State Forest.
Site characteristics: Horse-friendly sites often have specific features. "Each site comes with a fire ring with a cooking grate and a picnic table and were well spaced out from other sites," notes Catherine S. about camping at Lake Ocquittunk in Stokes State Forest.
Weather considerations: The mountain elevation affects camping conditions. "Went camping in late October, when a lot of the other parks are closed. Only one section of their camping was still open but the bathrooms and showers had been winterized," shares Tiffany K. about Beechwood Area camping.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly trails: Choose routes suitable for young riders. "This park is large and has many different campgrounds. We stayed in lower lake beechwood site 323," explains Dawn R. about Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area, noting it offered good access to family-appropriate trails.
Waterfront activities: Select sites near water for additional recreation options. "I spent the night in the Promised Land State Park at Pickerel Point and it was so pretty and quiet. There was a bathroom with flush toilets nearby and the campsites were well spaced apart. Mine overlooked the water and had a gorgeous sunset," mentions Carolyn M.
Plan for weather changes: Mountain weather can shift quickly. "We went on the canoes on the lake, pretty big place, worst part though was when i did go and camp out for a week near the small pond part it rained and our campsite turned into a complete mud pit," cautions Lou R. about Keen Lake conditions.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: Verify your specific electrical needs when booking. "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," explains Debbie W. about camping at Pickerel Point.
Site selection: Choose sites that accommodate both horses and RVs. "I stayed at the Beechwood location at the Promised Land state park and despite the constant rain, it was quiet and peaceful. The RV pads were spaced put perfectly and we all had our own picnic table and fire pit," reports Maze M. about Lower Lake Campground Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area.
Off-season considerations: Be prepared for limited facilities in colder months. "Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers," explains Mara S. about winter camping conditions at Promised Land State Park.
Ranger
