Promised Land State Park hosts multiple equestrian camping areas near Long Pond, Pennsylvania. The Pocono Mountain region sits at approximately 1,800 feet above sea level, creating moderate summer temperatures that typically range from 70-85°F during peak camping season. Winter conditions can be harsh with temperatures routinely dropping below freezing between November and March, making the equestrian camping areas seasonal operations.
What to do
Trail riding access: Horseback riders at Pickerel Point Campground appreciate the mix of terrain. "The trails were beautiful, recommend little falls trail. The bathrooms were clean with nice hot showers," notes Kelly F. The park's 50 miles of trails connect to larger conservation networks.
Lake activities with horses: Many sites at Keen Lake Resort Campground allow horses to cool off after rides. "My kids absolutely love it and always have something to do. They have activity coordinators that make sure there is something to do for all ages every hour of the day," reports Mike H. The separate swimming areas for horses prevent contamination of recreational waters.
Wildlife observation: Riders frequently spot deer, foxes, and birds from horseback throughout the wooded areas. Christina H. mentions, "We heard foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise!" Many trails feature designated wildlife viewing clearings where horses can be safely secured.
What campers like
Paved roads for trailers: The park system maintains paved access roads suitable for large horse trailers. "The road is paved, it makes it easy for the kids to ride bikes, skate etc..." notes Paula R., though she's referring to regular bikes, the same paths work well for moving horses between areas.
Highline options: While permanent corrals aren't available, Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area provides ample space for setting up portable containment. "The RV pads were spaced put perfectly and we all had our own picnic table and fire pit," mentions Maze M., highlighting the generous spacing that accommodates horse equipment.
Off-season availability: Some equestrian areas remain accessible during quieter months. "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. Horse owners appreciate less crowded conditions for skittish animals.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: All equestrian sites at Lackawanna State Park Campground require advance booking. Michael notes, "We like Lackawanna State Park. This is the place we camped when we moved to PA. It has sites that are very wooded. Some are a little close to each other, but others offer plenty of space."
Feed storage regulations: Park rules require all grain and feed to be stored in sealed containers due to wildlife. Bear-proof storage is recommended at all locations.
Manure management: Riders must collect and dispose of manure in designated areas only. No spreading allowed on trails or campsites to prevent introducing invasive plant species.
Limited cell service: Coverage can be spotty throughout horse camping areas. "The only negative is that I had almost no cell reception with Verizon," mentions one camper about nearby facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly horse activities: Stokes State Forest offers supervised horse programs for children. "Sussex county is beautiful. Stokes is such a peaceful campground! We stay in the cabins. It's great to have the small kitchen when camping with the family," says Amy B.
Safety boundaries: Establish clear rules for children around horses. Designate specific "horse-free" play areas where running and louder activities won't spook animals.
Pack extra clothing: Temperature fluctuations require layering options. "Went camping in late October, when a lot of the other parks are closed. Only one section of their camping was still open but the bathrooms and showers had been winterized," reports Tiffany K., highlighting seasonal considerations.
Schedule flexibility: Plan morning rides when horses are freshest and temperatures lower, reserving afternoons for swimming or quieter family activities.
Tips from RVers
Trailer parking dimensions: Mohican Outdoor Center offers wider sites suitable for both living quarters and horse trailers. Dan X. observes, "The tent sites are either on the ground have wooden platforms. Cabins come in various sizes." This same spatial arrangement applies to the horse-friendly areas.
Electric considerations: Sites with 30/50 amp service should be reserved early as they're limited. Many equestrian sites require extension cords of 25+ feet to reach hookups while allowing proper trailer positioning.
Water access planning: Most horse-friendly sites have spigots within 100 feet, but not at individual sites. Bring multiple hoses or portable tanks for horse water.
Site leveling: Many equestrian sites have slight grades. Pack extra blocking materials for trailers and designate flat areas for portable corrals.
