The horse campgrounds near Portland, Pennsylvania provide specialized facilities for equestrian camping amid the Pocono Mountain region. Most sites are situated between 1,300-1,800 feet elevation, creating a climate several degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands. During summer months, overnight temperatures can drop into the 50s even when daytime highs reach the 80s.
What to do
Hike forest trails with dogs: At Stokes State Forest, many campsites welcome pets alongside their owners. "We stayed at the Lake Ocquittunk Area. Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. Site came with bear proof bin for garbage and fire ring," notes a visitor at Ocquittunk.
Fish at multiple lakes: The region offers several fishing opportunities with well-stocked lakes. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, one camper reports, "You can bring a camper, tent, or use one of the cabins. Many sites have a lovely water view of the reservoir. Several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area."
Ride equestrian paths: Trail riding opportunities exist throughout the region with dedicated equestrian camping areas. "The campgrounds were just okay. If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs," advises a camper about selecting the right site for larger rigs.
What campers like
Private campsites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots. At Camp Mohican Outdoor Center, "The Group Campsite was really big. It had 5-6 platforms, privys, big fire ring, a grill, a beatbox, a large pavilion w/picnic tables and a real full sized bathroom only 100 yards away."
Lake activities: Water access remains a favorite amenity. "I had site 100 and amazing views of the water from our camper. The trails were beautiful, recommend little falls trail. The bathrooms were clean with nice hot showers," shares a visitor at Pickerel Point Campground.
Year-round accessibility: Some campgrounds operate throughout all seasons. "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers. The park is large with many hiking trails and ice fishing," notes a winter camper.
What you should know
Bathroom conditions vary: Facilities receive mixed reviews across campgrounds. "The bathrooms were absolutely disgusting. I thought with COVID they were cleaning them more, but for the entire weekend, someone's #2 remained all over the toilet, floor, and corner wall," reports one camper at Spruce Run.
Noise levels fluctuate: Some campgrounds experience weekend disruptions. "It was very loud and rowdy into the late night. There were campers making lots of noise, arming/disarming their car alarms, slamming doors, cars driving in/out, bright lights flashing, etc. all PASSED 2am!!"
Weather preparedness: Temperatures can change dramatically. At Mountainview Campground, a visitor noted, "This place was actually fantastic, I don't really have anything negative to say about it. The whole scene was exactly what I love about camping, a nice little remote campground in the mountains."
Tips for camping with families
Seek out activity programs: Some parks offer structured recreation. "We stay in the cabins. It's great to have the small kitchen when camping with the family. A must see campground," mentions a family visitor to Stokes State Forest.
Choose sites away from water: For safety with young children, consider distance from shorelines. "Our site was on a hill and most likely not in a flood area," notes a camper about site selection at Mountainview Campground.
Look for playground access: Facilities for children vary widely between campgrounds. At Keen Lake Resort Campground, "They have activity coordinators that make sure there is something to do for all ages every hour of the day! The security is great and patrol to make sure quiet hours are quiet."
Tips from RVers
Consider power options: Electric service varies between campgrounds. "This is a good place to bring an RV. If you need to, you can go and request if they could cut your grass if it's too long," advises an RVer.
Check for low-hanging branches: Tree clearance can impact larger vehicles. "The drive to our site had some inclines and was relatively rocky and some vehicles would surely struggle," notes a camper about access challenges.
Winter camping preparation: Cold weather camping requires planning. "Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. The only negative is that I had almost no cell reception with Verizon," reports a winter RV camper.
Ranger
