Equestrian campgrounds near Lampeter, Pennsylvania offer trail riders access to rolling Pennsylvania countryside. Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area provides the closest option for equestrian camping, situated 30 miles from Lampeter with access to over 80 miles of trails. While dedicated horse facilities are limited, several campgrounds in the region accommodate equestrians with proper preparation and advance reservations.
What to do
Trail riding at Fair Hill NRMA: Equestrians can access an extensive trail system at Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area in nearby Elkton, Maryland. "There are two primitive youth group camping areas. There are specific rules that need to be followed and the guidelines are on the website," notes Gen F. The area features multiple riding paths that connect to broader trail networks.
Fishing at multiple locations: Many campgrounds offer fishing opportunities in stocked lakes and ponds. French Creek State Park has "two lakes, Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake that you can fish at, kayak, canoe or just relax by. There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish," shares Jen R.
Hiking through wooded terrain: Hibernia County Park offers "walking/hiking trails and the lake were super peaceful," according to Chelsea. The park features several easy trails with the longest being around 2 miles, perfect for day hikes between camping sessions.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At French Creek State Park Campground, campers appreciate the spacing between sites. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," notes Jen R. This provides a more secluded experience for horse owners who need additional space.
Clean facilities: Despite limited equestrian amenities, most campgrounds maintain clean facilities. At Lums Pond State Park Campground, "the bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease," reports Mark.
Natural surroundings: Campers consistently mention the natural beauty at parks near Lampeter. At Hibernia County Park, Jennifer S. notes it's "heavily wooded. There is NOTHING to do except walk or bike the beautiful trails, spend time on Chamber's Lake, spend time in the hammock and stare at the fire."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most horse-friendly campgrounds require advance booking. At Starlite Camping Resort, "We had two sites this trip with water and electric, but they do have quite a few full hook-up sites. Overall the sites were large, with trees between, providing additional privacy," notes Craig F.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds have limited seasonal availability. Hibernia County Park "is only open on the weekends, in season. Sites can be reserved on line, by phone, or by 'first come, first served' self-registration," explains Jennifer S.
Terrain challenges: The topography around Lampeter can present challenges for horse trailers. At Starlite Camping Resort, Chris G. warns, "If you're hauling a big camper you'll need power for the hills." Similar considerations apply when transporting horses to camping locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Many parks offer playground facilities for children. At French Creek State Park, Ellen C. found "a nice playground situated conveniently between the loops of the campground. It had some slides, a bridge, lots of monkey bars, ladders to climb on and the best feature was the zip line."
Fishing opportunities for kids: Hibernia County Park offers special fishing areas for younger visitors. "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," notes Anna. This provides an activity option for families with both riders and non-riders.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Campgrounds in the Lampeter area typically maintain family-appropriate environments. At Lums Pond, Heather P. found a "Clean family friendly environment with tons of extra curricular activities for all."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: At horse-friendly campgrounds, site selection becomes critical when bringing trailers. Jennifer S. notes at Hibernia, "there are a few sites that will [fit RVs], including #3, #17 & #18 and plenty of sites will fit a small RV or pop up camper. They aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix."
Hookup locations: When camping with horses and RVs, hookup placement matters. At Lums Pond State Park, Amanda H. cautions that "The site offered electric and water but they were on 2 different sides. This made it difficult to set up. Had to park the camper crooked to use both."
Bathroom proximity: Consider facility location when selecting sites. At Lums Pond, al K. observed an interesting layout issue: "Some engineering genious put the bath houses furthest from the people that need them most. Tent campers….keep your shoes handy, its a hike."
Ranger
