Equestrian camping options near Greencastle, Pennsylvania lie within the northern reaches of the Blue Ridge Mountains where elevations range between 500-2,100 feet. The region features mixed deciduous and coniferous forests with some open meadow sections. Temperatures typically range from 20°F in winter months to upper 80s during summer, with the camping season generally running from April through November.
What to do
Trail riding access: At Michaux State Forest, numerous trails wind through varied terrain. "Like much of the state, it's a young mixed deciduous and coniferous forest, with some open and sparsely wooded prairie/meadow sections," notes reviewer Bridget D. Riders should check trail conditions before visiting as "some areas requiring four-wheel drive vehicles to access with horse trailers."
Historical excursions: Gettysburg Campground serves as a central base for exploring the region's Civil War sites. Located just "a few minute drive to historic Gettysburg," according to Brandon W., the campground provides convenient access to battlefield tours. Another camper mentions it's "very close to an historical National Park not to mention shopping and restaurants."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer on-site fishing. At Artillery Ridge Campground, one camper reports: "My husband caught a fish first day in the pond behind our site." Colonel Denning State Park features a stream running directly behind sites where "the kids and pups play all day," according to Casey L.
What campers like
Natural water features: Colonel Denning State Park Campground receives high marks for its stream access. "Amazing large flat sites, dog friendly and great stream right behind the sites," writes Casey L. The park also features "a wide open area to swim that was very clean and well kept."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain exceptional facilities. Colonel Denning earned praise as having "the absolute cleanest bathrooms we've seen in a state park" according to Nate & Erika L. Another camper reported it had the "cleanest facilities of the year so far."
Quiet environment: Artillery Ridge Campground offers a peaceful atmosphere for horse campers. "The grounds are nice and shaded, and you don't feel crowded," notes one reviewer. The staff receives consistent praise with one camper stating, "The staff was great. We had a site right next to the trail going to Stangler Farm."
What you should know
Horse-specific considerations: Teaberry Parking Area Campsites at Michaux State Forest does provide some equestrian amenities. "Teaberry has a few hitching posts and a two step mounting block available," though formal corrals are not provided. Be aware of seasonal challenges as one camper reported: "The first 3.5 days there were lantern flies actively trying to get into our rig."
Seasonal closures: Some facilities operate on limited schedules. According to reviewers, Michaux State Forest's "designated motorized sites require a free online permit and are open April 2 until the 3rd Sunday after Thanksgiving" while "designated motorized parking lot sites require the same free online permit but are open year-round."
Limited amenities: Horse camping in the region typically offers primitive conditions. Michaux State Forest sites have "no drinking water available at sites" and most have no restrooms. While "all designated sites have some sort of fire ring," don't expect full facilities at forest sites.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Camp Winery provides opportunities for family adventures. "Very beautiful spot, did some tent camping. Close to many cool things in the area too," shares Sammii D. The site offers drinking water, toilets and showers while still maintaining a natural setting.
Educational opportunities: Gettysburg Campground places families near historical learning experiences. "Very fun family friendly getaway for the weekend. Close to Gettysburg Battleground," writes Matthew K. Another family noted it has "tons of things for them to do. We were in tent sites which felt bigger than most and were right by river."
Trail difficulty awareness: When planning family hikes, consider challenge levels. At Colonel Denning, "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," notes one reviewer. For those with smaller children, easier trails are available closer to campsites.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Gettysburg Campground, RVers should consider location carefully. "We stayed here mid-week in September so it was very quiet. There was a bit of road noise as our site was close to the entrance," reports one RVer. Another adds, "The sites are quite packed together and the noise of traffic– at least in the frontmost sites– can get rather loud at night."
Seasonal considerations: RVers visiting Michaux State Forest should be prepared for changing conditions. "Cell service varies greatly. Some sites will have none without a decent drive or hike, while others have 4 bars," according to one camper. During summer, Artillery Ridge Campground offers more amenities, though one visitor noted, "No pool, no mini golf, and a lot of sites are closed" during construction periods.
Utilities management: Most horse camping sites have minimal or no hookups. Artillery Ridge provides more options, with reviewers noting, "The grounds are nice and shaded, and you don't feel crowded." For those requiring full hookups, consider Gettysburg Campground which offers "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."
