Most horse campgrounds near Petersburg, Pennsylvania require travel to nearby counties, as the immediate area offers limited equestrian accommodations. The region sits within the Appalachian Plateaus province with elevations ranging from 800-1,500 feet and receives approximately 43 inches of annual precipitation. Summer temperatures average in the mid-70s, making it conducive for overnight camping trips with horses, though proper planning is needed.
What to do
Trail riding access: At Oil Creek Family Campground, riders can find connections to larger trail systems. "The campground hiking trail loop has a very short connecting piece to the 36-mile Gerard hiking trail that runs through the park," notes one visitor who appreciated the trail connectivity.
Fishing opportunities: The region offers several options for anglers taking breaks from riding. "Oil Creek - which is really a river - runs right down the middle of the park. It is a stocked creek and it's great for both trout and bass fishing," reports an Oil Creek visitor.
Wildlife viewing: While exploring the natural areas surrounding Petersburg, watch for local fauna. One camper at Oil Creek mentioned, "Some parts of the creek also have a lot of northern water snakes (we saw 4 near the Blood Farm day use area) which was cool to see."
What campers like
Large, private sites: At Two Mile Run County Park, campers appreciate the spaciousness. "When staying at two mile you will find the sites are separated by trees and offer you your own little private area. The prices are good and you truly are in nature," notes one reviewer.
Water recreation: Though not horse-focused, Mosquito Lake State Park Campground offers a change of pace for riders wanting water activities. "Great park! Sites are spacious and level. Very clean park. Camp is near beach & marina. Also many shops and restaurants within a 10 minute drive," shares one visitor.
Well-maintained facilities: Cleanliness matters to riders traveling with animals. One camper at West Branch State Park Campground noted, "The shower house and bathrooms are large and clean. There is even a book exchange shelf at the shower house in case of rainy days."
What you should know
Primitive options only: For those seeking truly remote camping with horses, Danner Primitive Campground provides basic accommodations. "This is a hike in or paddle in only campground. The shortest distance is about 2 miles from the trailhead at the Kennerdell bridge, but there are other trailheads throughout the tract also."
Water availability concerns: Many sites require you to bring water for your horses. At Danner, "There is a spring for water which says to boil before drinking," but quantity may be limited for multiple horses.
Reservation requirements: Most locations near Petersburg require advance planning. "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!" advises a West Branch visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When traveling with children and horses, look for campgrounds with play areas. At West Haven RV Park and Campground, one family mentioned, "They were extremely nice and accommodating," though they noted tent sites aren't as private as RV spaces.
Educational opportunities: The region's oil history provides learning experiences. "It is the site of the world's first commercial oil well, and where the oil industry began in the United States around 1860," notes a visitor to Oil Creek.
Alternative activities: When horses need rest, find other recreation options. At Two Mile Run, "Plenty of nice hiking trails. Great beach for kids," offers additional entertainment according to one reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: At Moraine State Park, RVers should note topography issues. "Some of the sites have a slight grade so be cautious when selecting," warns one camper, important if you're traveling with a horse trailer and RV combination.
Hook-up availability: Most equestrian travelers need to know about services. At West Haven, a visitor noted, "We had a 30a with water no septic," highlighting the need to check specific hook-up options when traveling with horses and rigs.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts horse camping significantly. At Mosquito Lake, one camper observed, "Unfortunately our campsite was under water due the extensive rains recently this past week and spring overall. But the staff at the camp office gave us a list of all of the open sites that we could choose from so that we could still camp."
