Equestrian Camping near Marietta, PA

Horse camping opportunities near Marietta, Pennsylvania include both public parks and private facilities within 40-50 miles of town. Located in Lancaster County at an elevation of about 240 feet above sea level, Marietta sits along the Susquehanna River where summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with moderate humidity. Winter camping conditions can be challenging with temperatures often dropping below freezing from December through February.

What to do

Trail riding access points: Michaux State Forest permits horses on many trails and offers primitive camping options. "Every January for the last few years some friends and I have gone and camped along the Appalachian Trail. You can park at Pine Grove State Park and then hike your way into locations or park at other trail heads," notes John S.

Explore historic sites: Artillery Ridge Campground in Gettysburg provides access to battlefield trails. One camper explains, "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts."

Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes at French Creek State Park offer various fishing spots. "There are 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," mentions Jen R.

What campers like

Equestrian-friendly layout: At Artillery Ridge Campground, the grounds accommodate horse owners with special features. "This campground has horse stalls and rings if you would like to bring your own horses. There were a few families that brought their horses and they were right across from our site. Kids loved being able to see them and get close and even pet them!" shares Ray L.

Riverside camping: Ferryboat Campsites offers sites along the Susquehanna River. One camper notes, "We enjoyed our stay here — but mostly because we liked being right on the water. If it weren't for that this would not be the campground for us. The weather was hot so lots of tubing and fishing and kayaking in the river — we loved to sit out and watch the water go by."

Wooded privacy: Several campgrounds offer secluded sites. At Hibernia County Park, Jennifer S. explains, "Most sites are heavily wooded which means plenty of hammock hanging opportunities. The sites are mostly grass, and not very well defined which means the distance between you and your neighbor can vary depending on how you set up camp."

What you should know

Permit requirements: For horse camping in Michaux State Forest, understand the permitting system. "Camping is free in several areas throughout Michaux State Forest, BUT you usually need to have a camping permit (also free) and you can only stay in designated campsites. To obtain a permit, find out where the designated sites are, and/or find out what designated campsites are available, you have to contact the State Forest District Office," advises Jen S.

Seasonal limitations: Most equestrian-friendly campgrounds have restricted seasons. Starlite Camping Resort operates from "May 1 to Nov 1" according to their listing, making it unavailable for winter horse camping trips.

Terrain challenges: Some campgrounds have significant elevation changes. At Starlite Camping Resort, Chris G. notes, "There is also a great view of the surrounding countryside because it's up on a big hill. If you're hauling a big camper you'll need power for the hills."

Tips for camping with families

Water activities: Little Buffalo State Park offers swimming options. "There is a pool! The pool is very nice! They offer a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones! There is also a splash pad! There are 2 slides for fun!" says Amanda H.

Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds have playgrounds and activities. At Ferryboat Campsites, a reviewer mentions, "There is a small goat petting zoo, with very friendly pigmy goats and the camp is extremely pet friendly as long as they are on a leash."

Hiking difficulty levels: Consider trail difficulty when planning family outings. At Colonel Denning State Park, one family reports, "Our family of six made the trek up the Flat Rock Trail to the overlook. A six mile round trip with a 1200 ft climb. Spectacular views."

Tips from RVers

Site dimensions: Check site sizes before booking, especially for larger rigs. At Gettysburg Campground, Jim G. notes, "The amenities of Gettysburg Campground are quite good: full hookups with cable, all working as expected. Level sites, friendly and efficient staff, decently sized sites long enough for my 32' coach and a toad."

Hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer limited hookups. At Hibernia County Park, Jennifer S. explains, "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank. There is one spigot at the 'bathroom'."

Dumping options: Plan for waste disposal, especially at primitive sites. "There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee, otherwise, you'll have to look for a truck stop on the way home," advises a reviewer about Hibernia County Park.