Equestrian camping near Hunlock Creek, Pennsylvania offers dedicated facilities within the Pocono Mountain region at elevations ranging from 1,300 to 1,800 feet. Trail systems connect campgrounds to wilderness areas with terrain suitable for various riding skill levels. Summer temperatures typically average 75-85°F during the day and cool to 55-65°F at night.
What to do
Horseback trail riding on forest paths: Pickerel Point Campground provides direct access to woodland riding trails through mature forests. "This state park Is only 20 minutes from home and we love spending time there. Almost every campsite is close to the water. Our site had kayak access and that was a real bonus," notes Aida K., highlighting the dual recreation options for riders.
Lakeside fishing alongside trails: Lackawanna State Park Campground connects riding paths with fishing spots. "The state park is a great way to get away and enjoy the forests. There is plenty of space to bring lunch and have a picnic. One suggestion would be to bring a fishing rod and enjoy casting while the kids run around and play," writes Maggie A.
Wildlife observation from established viewing areas: Promised Land State Park features wildlife viewing opportunities along bridle paths. "Loved camping on Pickerel Point. Kids had a great time! Bathrooms could be cleaned more often but relatively clean. The museum and crafts were closed due to Covid so that was a bummer but we found other things to do," says Paula R., noting the educational opportunities available.
What campers like
Large, level trailer parking areas: Tuscarora State Park Campground provides spacious sites for horse trailers. "A group of us stayed here over Memorial Day weekend. The sites were super spacious and private. There was enough room for a full overlanding setup, three vehicles, a hammock, two dogs and a two person tent with plenty of room to spare," remarks Paige H., indicating the ample space for equestrian camping setups.
Shower facilities after long rides: Keen Lake Resort Campground offers clean bathroom facilities for riders. "The bathrooms were the cleanest we've ever experienced at a campground. The showers are coin operated," shares Emily Z., noting an important amenity after dusty trail rides.
Tree coverage for horse comfort: Shaded sites at Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area provide comfort for both campers and horses. "Went tent camping for 3 nights, easy to get to, bathrooms were clean and so was the site. Sites were a good size and not on top of each other," notes Siobhan D., describing the site spacing that accommodates equestrian needs.
What you should know
Seasonal operation limits: Most equestrian campgrounds operate from April through October with weather-dependent trail access. "We stayed in lower lake beechwood site 323. Was decent site only downside was fire pit area was very un-level for camping chairs, otherwise it's a nice wooded site with privacy," reports Dawn R.
Trail difficulty varies: Trail systems near equestrian camping areas range from beginner to advanced riding levels. "Great hiking trails! Nice hiking trails!" states Annette M. at Lackawanna, with trails that also accommodate horseback riding.
Advanced booking requirements: Lower Lake Campground Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area requires reservations, especially during summer months. "We have camped here in tents and with our teardrop trailer. All of our experiences have been good. Clean bathrooms are essential and even when the large campground is full the bathrooms have been clean," mentions David S., highlighting the consistent maintenance despite heavy usage.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities between rides: Keen Lake offers swimming options for families with children. "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. It was awesome," shares Shannon C.
Educational programs: Lackawanna State Park conducts nature programs suitable for families. "We camp here several times a year and have never had a bad experience. Camp host is always most helpful and the park is always clean and well maintained. Great pool, lake, hiking etc," mentions William R.
Playground access: Several equestrian campgrounds feature child-friendly facilities. "This is an amazing state park that has something for everyone. There is an environmental education center with programs, there is fishing and boating, and an amazing network if hiking and horse riding trails," describes Janet R.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup reliability: RV sites at Pickerel Point Campground offer stable power connections. "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," notes Debbie W.
Off-peak scheduling: Equestrian camping areas are less crowded during weekdays. "We went in early spring midweek, it was very quiet and exactly the get away we wanted," shares David G. about Lackawanna State Park.
Site selection for trailer access: Choose sites with adequate turning radius for horse trailers. "Camped here for a weekend, and probably one of my least favorite sites so far. Hiking trails are good, the lake is nice, but there is no privacy at the campsites; they're all very small and packed tight," cautions David about potential space limitations.
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