Equestrian camping near Jessup, Pennsylvania offers access to woodland trails and lake views across the Pocono region. The area maintains a moderate climate with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Trail conditions vary seasonally with spring often bringing muddy paths following snowmelt, requiring appropriate footwear and equipment.
What to do
Kayaking on Keen Lake: Visitors can rent kayaks and paddle boats at Keen Lake Resort Campground for exploring the water. "Each day we would paddle over to the swimming area on the lake. It was awesome. The kids had fun riding bikes on the road, which was off the main road," shares Shannon C.
Fishing for local species: The lakes support various fish species for anglers to catch. "The kids caught multiple sunnies and even a small perch," notes a Keen Lake visitor. Elsewhere, fishing enthusiasts find opportunities in both still and moving water.
Hiking to scenic viewpoints: The trail network includes routes to elevated viewpoints. At Stokes State Forest, "areas with waterfalls and great views were easily accessible," according to Kiya N. Consider the hike to Sunset Mountain Scenic Overlook for views of High Point Monument.
Horseback riding on dedicated trails: Connect directly to bridle paths from your campsite at equestrian camping areas. The trail systems accommodate various riding skill levels and connect to longer routes throughout the forest.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms. At Lackawanna State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the upkeep: "The state park is always clean and well maintained. Great pool, lake, hiking etc.," notes William R.
Lakeside camping spots: Sites with water access rank highly among visitors. "We stayed at site #T007... The site itself is huge and we were able to position our tent facing the lake, it was beautiful!" reports Kara L. about her stay at Ocquittunk.
Multi-use recreation options: Parks offering diverse activities receive positive feedback. "The park and surrounding forest have lots of hiking and multiple lakes," shares Tiffany K. about her stay at Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area.
Winter accessibility: Some campgrounds maintain year-round operations. "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers," reports Mara S. about winter camping at Pickerel Point.
What you should know
Seasonal variations in access: Many campgrounds have limited operating seasons. "Park maintains seasonal operation, typically closing for winter months," though some areas remain accessible with reduced services.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies by location. "The only negative is that I had almost no cell reception with Verizon," notes Mara S. about her experience at Promised Land State Park.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "We came in on a Holiday weekend without a reservation. But we were given a terrific tent site," shares Guy M. about Lackawanna State Park, though this experience may be uncommon.
Site characteristics: Terrain varies across campgrounds. "Most of the sites seem to be on the smaller size when compared to other campgrounds we've been too. That said we had plenty of space, it was just very close to the next site," explains Emily Z. about camping at Keen Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Scheduled programs keep children engaged. At Keen Lake, "My step son enjoyed the crafts and organized activities," reports Harry L. Another camper notes, "They have activity coordinators that make sure there is something to do for all ages every hour of the day!"
Beach and pool access: Water features provide recreational options. "My kids really loved having a pool to swim in, in addition to the lake," shares Emily Z. about her family's experience.
Biking opportunities: Many campgrounds have paved roads suitable for children's bikes. "Love that the road is paved, it makes it easy for the kids to ride bikes, skate etc..." mentions Paula R. about her experience at Pickerel Point Campground.
Wildlife observation: Local wildlife provides educational opportunities. "Beavers! Far away but exciting nonetheless," shares Alaina Z. about her camping experience with children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: RV campers suggest researching specific sites. At Keen Lake, "Our site was probably one of the worst in the place but we were able to scope out others that we would prefer for our next visit," advises Emily Z.
Hookup reliability: Electrical systems vary in quality and capacity. "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained," cautions David about his experience at Lackawanna State Park.
Space considerations: Some campgrounds offer more room than others. "The RV sites are spaced out nicely," shares Charlotte D. about Keen Lake, while another camper notes the new Ledges loop at Lackawanna has "nice large sites" with full hookups.
Weather preparedness: Terrain conditions can affect RV parking. "Our campsite turned into a complete mud pit" after rain, warns Lou R., suggesting proper stabilization equipment and checking weather forecasts before arrival.
Guide
