Best Equestrian Camping near Howard, PA
We're here to help you find where to go horse camping in Howard. Equestrian camping is the best way to experience nature. These scenic and easy-to-reach Howard campsites are perfect for equestrian campers.
Best Equestrian Sites Near Howard, PA (6)
1. Black Moshannon State Park Campground
Port Matilda, Pennsylvania24 Reviews•92 Photos•114 SavesBlack Moshannon State Park covers 3,394 acres of forests and wetlands and conserves unique, natural environments. More than 43,000 acres of the Moshannon State Forest surround the park and help create a remote and wild setting that provides recreational opportunities in all seasons for camping near State College.
The 73 campsites each have a picnic table and a fire ring. Most sites can accommodate either a tent or a trailer. Many sites have electrical hookups. Some sites have full service hook up, which includes sewer, water, and electricity.Pets are permitted on designated sites.
The campground features:
-Washhouses with flush toilets
-Showers
-Coin-operated laundry machines
-Sanitary dump station
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
2. Lyman Run State Park Campground
Galeton, Pennsylvania23 Reviews•77 Photos•115 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
3. Little Buffalo State Park Campground
New Bloomfield, Pennsylvania18 Reviews•66 Photos•54 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$52 / night
4. Moshannon State Forest
Weedville, Pennsylvania4 Reviews•7 Photos•108 SavesThere are numerous designated primitive campsites without developed facilities within Moshannon State Forest that can be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers are required to obtain a camping permit at no charge.
For information about campsite availability in Moshannon State Forest and to request a permit, please contact the district office at 814-765-0821.
Primitive backpack camping also is allowed throughout the entire forest. Backpack campers do not need a permit if they stay no more than one night at any campsite.
Primitive backpack campers should register at any trailhead near a state park office.
Roadside campsites are singular, remote sites located along dirt and gravel state forest roads. They may be pull offs or have a short driveway. These sites allow for overnight camping in or very near a vehicle. Depending on layout, the sites may accommodate different types of equipment such as tents, small RVs, or trailers. Some sites are also appropriate for equestrian use. Nineteen designated motorized, roadside campsites are available in Moshannon State Forest:
- Ten are individual sites located along Medix Grade Road.
- There are also several sites within the Shaggers Inn Camping Area.
- The Yellow Snake Camping Area is ideal for equestrian use.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
$10 / night
5. Stony Fork Creek Campground
Wellsboro, Pennsylvania5 Reviews•31 Photos•39 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
$40 - $45 / night
6. Ferryboat Campsites
Millersburg, Pennsylvania6 Reviews•9 Photos•131 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$30 - $100 / night
Recent Equestrian Reviews in Howard
80 Reviews of 6 Howard Campgrounds
- S
Steve
Guide
Black Moshannon State Park Campground
Beautiful spot
In the middle of the woods vibe. The sites had good privacy and it was just a pretty area. Neighbors were respectful and relatively quiet.. There was zero cell service at this campground. Bathrooms were clean.
Greg W.
Traveler
Stony Fork Creek Campground
Great experience
We arrived on Saturday and departed the following Friday. The campground was exceptionally maintained, bathrooms and showers virtually spotless and the pool was clearly and consistently maintained at all times. Plenty of space to spread out and walk. All of the roads were paved and sites were very large.
- MJ B.Guide
Stony Fork Creek Campground
Good Camping Option to the Grand Canyon of PA
Stayed at this campsite, taking our pop-up camper on its maiden voyage to the Grand Canyon of PA. Was able to choose a location that worked best for us. The area we selected was not busy. Campsite appeared to have a lot of seasonal campers. My husband does not like staying in crowded campgrounds with people surrounding you and up all night screaming and singing. We go camping to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. Not to listen to people pretending to relive their college days....lol. Area is open, not offering a lot of privacy, but we had shade and woods behind us, and the ground was grassy and level. The pool was nice and the rec center had a lot of activities for kids. The pond offered fishing and pedal boat rentals. We chose this campsite due to its proximity to the Leonard Harrison State Park. We had no issues here and would recommend.
Zack B.Traveler
Moshannon State Forest
Generic positive title
Great tent site with lots of room. Have your own little driveway to park your car right next to the site. Comes with a picnic table and fire pit. Need lots of rope for setting up tarps as trees are far apart. Cute little stream in the back with a log crossing. No cell service, near town with free wifi. No toilets or garbage. Good amount of traffic coming down the road but isn't an issue at night time.
- AAshley B.Traveler
Little Buffalo State Park Campground
Travel stop
We camped in on of the cabins overnight on a recent road trip. Cabins are nice and spacious, bath facilities are some of the best I've seen. We didn't;t get to explore since we were traveling, but there's plenty to do in the area.
Joni P.GuideBlack Moshannon State Park Campground
Beautiful and well appointed park
Getting to the park had some sharp turns and windy roads. Small campground but nicely equipped. 2 bath houses were dated but clean. Nice playground at the campground and also one at the beach. Small camp concessions with a few camping items as well as ice cream cones. Great hiking and a beautiful lake for kayaking. Site 22 is a full hookup. Utilities worked nicely. However, our picnic table had seen better days. The site sat down off the road but once you were backed in the spot it was pretty level. This site also had a separate tent pad located down a few stone steps. Verizon and AT&T cell service were basically non existent. Every once in a while a text would come in or send but very spotty. Sorry I failed to get a pic of the site in the daylight. It was spacious and we had plenty of room for our 30' trailer, truck, and easy up over the table. 6+ chairs around the fire pit, cooking ring could have been better. Grassy area for cornhole or playing.
Stephanie H.
RangerLittle Buffalo State Park Campground
Quick overnight
We arrived when it was dark out and had site #2. The camp hosts were fantastic and helped us back into a spot. The spot was hard to maneuver for a 41 ft 5th wheel because of the turning radius. There was also a drop off on the other side of the road which limited the turning radius as well. We only slept here but it looked like a nice place. The grounds are hilly.the well was dry so there wasn’t any water.
Lee D.
LegendBlack Moshannon State Park Campground
No cell, no problem!
General: 73-site campground; most have electric hookups, and some are FHU. Pets are only permitted at selected sites. There are also 20 (13 rustic and 6 modern) cabins. Cell service is extremely limited to non-existent (Verizon).
Site Quality: Pads are gravel and most appeared to be level. Site 70 was at the end of the loop which is why we picked it. A picnic table, fire ring, and lantern hook complete each site.
Bathhouse: As has been our experience in all PA state parks, the bathhouse was pristine, and the shower (for no additional cost) was clean with plentiful hot water and was very much appreciated.
Activities/Amenities: Coin-operated laundry. A playground is in the campground and there is an additional one at the swimming beach. The swimming beach is open from mid-May to mid-September, from 8 am– sunset. Electric motorboats are permitted on Moshannon Lake. Boat rentals are available in season. Permits are required. 24 miles of hiking trails, including two trails directly from the campground to the lake. In the summer, there is a camper store/concession stand. Hunting is allowed in season. There are 4.3 miles of mountain biking trails.
I used to think Oregon State Parks were the best, but Pennsylvania State Parks have them beat by a mile. We have yet to be disappointed by the amenities(especially the clean bathrooms) offered at the half-dozen state parks we have visited so far.
Casey L.LegendLittle Buffalo State Park Campground
Love it here!!
We just love this little park! Easy to access, big rig friendly although there is a hill to get up to campground. They have water and electricity at most sites and some are dry. They have a very clean bathhouse with a dump station. We love the fishing access, boat rentals, great playgrounds and fun activities for the kids!
Liz C.
Scout
Lyman Run State Park Campground
Lyman Run State Park
The site and facilities were very well kept and clean. The night we arrived there was several other campers but cleared out for the weekend so we basically got the whole lower camp ground to ourselves which was great. Sites are well spaced so you don’t feel like it’s crowded. Would definitely visit again!
Fred L.GuideBlack Moshannon State Park Campground
Beautiful campground
This entire park is beautiful! There are plenty of well-maintained, well-marked trails for all experience levels. The lake is lovely with a very nice swimming beach (although I imagine that the water is cold even in the summer). The campground is wonderful! The sites are large and relatively private. The showers in the bath house are clean and nice. There wasn't much in the camp store when we were there, but it was the end of the season. Note: there is NO Internet or cell service there, but the locations where you can get cell service are posted. There is also no firewood available in the camp, but nearby locations where you can buy it are posted.
- kkallanTraveler
Moshannon State Forest
Peaceful Repose
My 3 year old cat and I had a wonderful time staying here. It was incredibly quiet, no cell service (we use total wireless which uses Verizon towers), and I couldn’t hear any of the neighboring campsites (I stayed at #7) even though they were all full. Highly recommend this spot.
It rained almost every day but only for a half hour or so and went back to being sunny. Bring bug spray and tick collars for your pets.
I would recommend bringing firewood with you, as there wasn’t much to collect that was already dead and dry enough for burning. Several of the local gas stations sell some if you want to bring some on the way.
Lawrence D.Scout
Ferryboat Campsites
Typical tent camping
They offer the typical tent camping environment, mostly out in an open field and good walk to showers/head. Other than that was enjoyable place to stay.
- mmelissaGuide
Ferryboat Campsites
It’s ok
We enjoyed our stay here — but mostly because we liked being right on the water. If it weren’t for that this would not be the campground for us. The weather was hot so lots of tubing and fishing and kayaking in the river — we loved to sit out and watch the water go by. Wood at the camp store is incredibly expensive — they don’t sell to nightly campers by anything more than the small bundle ($8) — thankfully a lien seasonal let us buy some of his stock, otherwise we wouldn’t have been able to afford more than one fire over the weekend. Come for the river and the kind seasonal people (which is the majority).
- Ron H.Guide
Little Buffalo State Park Campground
Cold April weekend
We arrived late moring on Saturday. Reserved site 16 and it was plenty big enough for my 34ft trailer, but not enough to fit my truck. Campground is very clean and the spots are not too close to each other. Rangers are on site a lot and enforce the no alcohol policy, so keep it on the down low. We did get a chance to explore the park itself because the weather was cold and rainy.
Jess D.TravelerBlack Moshannon State Park Campground
Very cute Tent sites
I was lucky enough to stay when all the leaves were changing and the views were amazing. Love camping here, nice HOT showers! Also had some critters visit my tent at night.
Peyton B.TravelerLyman Run State Park Campground
Amazing lake and scenic views!
This has to be the best campground I’ve ever been to. From the beautiful lake to the stunning views of the vistas, you are always feeling at peace.
Dee S.ScoutBlack Moshannon State Park Campground
No phones, no firewood, endless supply of gas powered blowers
Let’s just start this review with our grading of the park it’s self. Five stars! Well maintained facilities, clean bath houses and gorgeous views at both the lake and multiple forest trails. Free Park map was very helpful in getting to trailheads and park office.
The park loses stars quickly for us, starting with the lack of cell or WiFi service. Though we did see a couple payphones at both the Ranger office and one of the bath house by the beach. We know that for many, camping means off the grid, but we like to be in touch with family or our business, at least for a phone call. The camp store and boat rentals were closed for the season and no firewood to be bought anywhere. Finally, our biggest complaint is the use of a commercial gas powered leaf blower, both hand held and an enormous one on the back of a large tractor, blowing leaves in the campground for the entire day, from early morning until 4pm. It was loud, constant and took away any chance of enjoying the serene environment of the park.
Had there been no blowers going, I think the beauty and serenity of this park would outweigh the lack of phone or WiFi. We’ll definitely come back but I think we’ll ask about the blower schedule and where to buy firewood before entering the park.
MsTrailBlazer 🏔.GuideBlack Moshannon State Park Campground
Lovely!
So Beautiful, so nice. Bathrooms were great. I’ll be back!
- SSusan B.Traveler
Little Buffalo State Park Campground
Beautiful state park
We liked it so much we stayed another night. Quiet, wooded spots, with a very nice bathhouse, and good trails nearby. We would stay again.
- RRobinGuide
Ferryboat Campsites
Beautiful River View
We stayed at a Susquehanna river view site with full hookups for 2 nights. Site was level and shaded, but very close to neighbors. Most sites were occupied by permanent or seasonal residents. Bathrooms and grounds were very clean. Rates are reasonable for what you get, and they offer discounts. We would stay here again. Update: Storms with heavy rain in the area made the river rise. We were told the campground is susceptible to flooding, so check the weather when you come!
Casey L.RangerLittle Buffalo State Park Campground
Great people!
We went to Little Buffalo State Park for Labor Day weekend and had a blast! Great neighbors, lots of kids to play with, good playground and very clean facilities (cleaned daily). The driving path is gravel with a steep hill at the end so if you can help it I would avoid sites 32,34,36 as they are VERY difficult to back into with larger rigs. People’s trucks kept sliding down the gravel hill as they tried to back in. Overall, lots to see and do, beautiful hikes and views of the lake, will revisit!
Joann&WellsThePup I.GuideMoshannon State Forest
Medix 3&4
Primitive sites with picnic tables and fire pits for a group. You need to contact the forestry district for availability and reservations but they are free. You will want to reserve them together or else you are going to get to know your neighbors really well. Room for multiple cars and lots of tents. Creek is right there and it’s only 5-10 minutes away from Benzenette which has a store, bars, restaurants, public restrooms and lots of places to view the PA elk herd. Bring some trash bags with you. Unfortunately the group before left a lot of trash to be picked up.
- Joann&WellsThePup I.Guide
Moshannon State Forest
Medix 5
This is a free site with no amenities but in a beautiful area. You need to contact the forestry district for availability and to reserve. Nice sit with fire pit, picnic table, and short walk to a beautiful creek so no need to bring water if you can filter it. Only 5-10 minutes away from Benezette and the PA elk herd. Town itself has a store and restaurants. Definitely will go again!
- LLesley J.Guide
Black Moshannon State Park Campground
Great site
Have shower, flush toilets, coin laundry and wash area for dishes. Sites are well kept, shaded.
- PPeggy S.Scout
Lyman Run State Park Campground
Great state park
What a great park. Was there in order to go to nearby Cherry Springs SP which is a certified Dark Sky area, to see the stars. Cherry Springs is about 8 miles away. We like staying at Lyman Run since Cherry Springs gets filled pretty quickly. Lyman Run campground is great. There are 2 campgrounds, one right by the lake(larger) and one a little further away (smaller). We prefer the smaller one. Bathrooms are newer with a nice, new system for “composting” I guess. No odor at all. And nice and clean. Nice hiking trails, beach area by lake, fishing and then the stars! One of my favs.
- MMegan S.Traveler
Lyman Run State Park Campground
Summer Weekend
Stayed for the weekend at site 25 at the lower campground. Site was next to the bathrooms but no problems noise. Nice and quiet overall. Bathrooms were very clean with nice hot water in the showers. There are pit toilets but they are well maintained and there was no smell even though it was hot out. Some good trail for hiking with a great scenic overlook on the Rock Run Trail. The concession stand by the beach only took cash while we were there, no cards. Cherry Springs right down the road. Recommend bringing chairs or a blanket to sit on if you drive over there for stargazing.
Guide to Howard
Horse camping in Pennsylvania offers a unique opportunity to explore the great outdoors while enjoying the company of your equine friends. With a variety of well-reviewed spots, equestrian enthusiasts can find the perfect place to set up camp.
Tips for equestrian camping near Howard, Pennsylvania
- The Moshannon State Forest provides a peaceful setting with ample space for both horses and riders, making it a great choice for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
- At Black Moshannon State Park Campground, you can enjoy spacious sites that accommodate horses, along with nearby trails for riding.
- Stony Fork Creek Campground features a welcoming atmosphere for horse campers, with easy access to trails and a beautiful natural setting.
Equestrian campers like these nearby activities
- Enjoy scenic rides along the trails at Black Moshannon State Park Campground, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the woods.
- The Moshannon State Forest offers a variety of trails suitable for horseback riding, allowing you to explore the stunning landscapes of Pennsylvania.
- Lyman Run State Park Campground is perfect for combining horseback riding with fishing and hiking, providing a well-rounded outdoor experience.
Campers appreciate these amenities for horses
- Black Moshannon State Park Campground features reservable sites with electric hookups, making it convenient for horse campers who need extra amenities.
- At Moshannon State Forest, you’ll find picnic tables and fire pits at each site, ensuring a comfortable stay for both you and your horse.
- Stony Fork Creek Campground offers spacious sites with easy access for horse trailers, making it a practical choice for equestrian camping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Howard, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Howard, PA is Black Moshannon State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 24 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Howard, PA?
TheDyrt.com has all 6 equestrian camping locations near Howard, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.