11 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Artillery Ridge Campground accommodates horses with multiple pens, a fenced riding arena, and ample RV sites positioned near the horse stalls. The campground features a hose wash rack for cleaning horses after rides and provides guided tours of the Gettysburg battlefield on rescue horses through the National Riding Stables located on the grounds. Full hookup sites, cabins, and tent camping options surround the equestrian facilities, making it convenient for riders to stay close to their animals. The campground sits practically on the Gettysburg battlefield, allowing equestrians to access historic riding routes directly from their campsites. Sites are gravel and relatively level, with most offering water and electric hookups. The campground reeks of horse manure throughout, which may be expected at an active equestrian facility.
Michaux State Forest offers designated motorized parking lot sites that also serve as equestrian camping areas, with Teaberry featuring hitching posts and a two-step mounting block for riders. These sites require a free online permit and remain open year-round for horse camping. The forest contains numerous trails suitable for horseback riding, connecting to the broader trail system of the northern Blue Ridge Mountains. Horse owners must bring their own water, as no drinking water is available at the sites. Each designated site includes a fire ring, and some have picnic tables. The forest sits on the northern terminus of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering varied terrain through young mixed deciduous and coniferous forest with some open meadow sections. Cell service varies greatly throughout the forest, with some sites having no reception while others maintain strong connectivity.
"I always appreciate the near solitude experience of this campground as 90% of the sites are RV sites, that are kept away from the tenting area."
"If you’re looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn’t it."
"This park is a perfect location if you want to explore Gettysburg National Historical Site as you can literally walk across the street and be in the park or venture½ mile up the road and you come to the"
"Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded."
"Some reviewers have confused nearby State Parks with the actual State Forest, resulting in inaccurate information."
"Every January for the last few years some friends and I have gone and camped along the Appalachian Trail."
from $10 / night
Check Availability"Campground reeks of horse manure 24/7. Was pleased by the quiet despite size of campground and proximity to highway. Sites not overly large or private."
"The morning drive started early, had several stops and starts, and I was once again glad that my big dog was along for the ride."
from $20 - $110 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $100 - $150 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $10 / night
Check Availability"Cleanest facilities of the year so far, amazing large flat sites, dog friendly and great stream right behind the sites."
"We stayed in site 28 which was a walk-in site, this was perfect for us since we wanted to be further away from people and the light from the bathroom/shower facility."
from $20 - $38 / night
Check Availability"Several rustic campsites with a large lake for the kids, and miles of off road trails for atvs, jeeps, and dirtbikes."
"The road is gravel and could use some work, I’d recommend 4x4 drive. We really enjoyed it and will go back. The reason for 4 stars instead of 5, water situation and the roads could use some work."
from $10 / night
Check Availability
TravelerCampground reeks of horse manure 24/7. Was pleased by the quiet despite size of campground and proximity to highway. Sites not overly large or private. Has wood vending machine at entrance for firewood. Hiking loop around lake is beautiful. Jean bonnet tavern nearby recommended for a great meal in a historic setting.
LegendThis park is a perfect location if you want to explore Gettysburg National Historical Site as you can literally walk across the street and be in the park or venture½ mile up the road and you come to the park’s main visitor center. The campground has a bunch of different sites whether you want to spend more money for a premium full hook-up or save a few bucks and just get water and electric. There are lots of tent sites, cabins, and horse stalls with a corral for those traveling with horses. The park is also very close to the historic downtown so you don’t have to drive too far for the attractions.
We were able to do contactless check-in by making the reservation and paying over the phone. When we arrived, they had a packet out on a picnic table for us with directions to our site and information about the park and the surrounding area. But, the best part of the check-in was that we got a free bundle of wood and the cutest little s’mores packet which had just enough fixings for the two of us. Such a great touch that we really appreciated. We had a gravel pull thru site which was easy to navigate in and out of with our tow car attached and was plenty long enough. The roads are gravel but were not dusty. The site and patio were gravel and a mix of grass. The campground was very clean and well-cared for.
Some of the sites are in the open without much shade but some other areas have some nice shade. Most of the tent section is pretty open with a few trees scattered about. Some of the sites (i.e., 82) is very close to the playground and the fishing pond which get quite a bit of action so be aware of the nearby amenities when you choose a site.
This park is well-suited for people traveling with horses. There are multiple pens and a fenced riding arena and ample RV sites and cabins in the near the horse stalls and there is a hose wash rack.
Some of the things we liked about this park:
There is a big section of the park dedicated to horses as the National Riding Stables are located on the grounds. You can get guided tours of the battlefield on their rescue horses.
A 24/7 firewood dispensing machine– which we had never seen before• Catch and release fishing pond• Free putt putt golf.
Heated swimming pool
Clean, well-kept campground• Lots of activities for kids with playgrounds, volleyball basketball, game room, camp store, movies, pool, etc.
We paid $44/night for our full hook-up site (#45) which we didn’t think was too expensive or unreasonable. Luckily for us, nobody was next to us during our stay (in May) as the neighboring sites were pretty close and this campground probably feels very tight when it’s full. The close proximity to Gettysburg NHS was the biggest plus of this park for us.
GuideSpent a weekend at Gettysburg. We camped at Artillery Ridge Campground, which served as an artillery storage/staging area for the Union during the battle. 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. So close to history. We have been to Gettysburg before, but going with the kids again being older, we all had a greater appreciation of the sacrifice of this 3-day battle. We did Park Ranger tours to learn about the 1st shot and how the war started to stand in the footsteps of General Buford at Senitary Ridge in the cupola overseeing the battlefield. Later in the day we took a horse carriage ride through the battlefields, Picketts Charge and the peach orchard with a private guide to learn every ounce of the battlefield and the major players to learn about the 3 days of fighting that took place to how the civilians of Gettysburg were impacted. The three day battle claimed over 50,000 lives and we toured the town of Gettysburg to learn how the community had to deal with the aftermath of the masses who perished, the smell which went on for over 30 miles and limited resources such as clean water. It's amazing to see how history was so preserved but right across the street from battlefields where so many died stands fast food restaurants, and hotels. A little surreal. Would definitely recommend a ride out to Gettysburg and this campground, which is right next to the battlefields. Clean facilities. If you are into horses, this is the place for you! Though sites are not very private, everyone is very respectful, and you are not on top of each other. Quiet hours are observed, which is nice too. Store has a great variety of souviners, treats, and emergency camping items. You can't get any closer to history than here. Would definitely recommend if you are looking to visit Gettysburg.
TravelerSome reviewers have confused nearby State Parks with the actual State Forest, resulting in inaccurate information. Despite their proximity, Caledonia and Pine Grove Furnace State Parks are NOT considered State Forest land, and have completely different amenities, availability, and regulations.
Michaux State Forest sites fall in to 4 categories:
1. Designated motorized sites, which require a free online permit and are open April 2 until the 3rd Sunday after Thanksgiving
2. Designated motorized parking lot sites, which require the same free online permit but are open year-round
3. Primitive backpacking sites, open year-round (no permit required, should be at least 1 mi from a trailhead, and only 1 night per site allowed)
4. Primitive Cabins, which are on State Forest land but are managed by and booked through the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club.
None of the sites available in Michaux have:
-electric or water hookups. If you used/saw one, you were in a State Park, not Forest.
-drinking water available at sites (some have a creek or springhouse, which must be treated first)
-restrooms (a very small number of sites have outhouses within 1/4 mi or so, but don't count on it)
All designated sites have some sort of fire ring, whether stones or metal.
Some, but not all, designated sites have picnic tables.
Cell service varies greatly. Some sites will have none without a decent drive or hike, while others have 4 bars.
Fires are not permitted at all from March 1 to May 25, and are also banned when fire danger is deemed too high.
Alcohol is permitted, except in picnic areas.
Designated motorized parking lot sites also serve as equestrian sites, and horse camping is allowed here. Teaberry has a few hitching posts and a two step mounting block available.
Pets are allowed as long as they are under control at all times and are not disturbing others. If your dog's recall is anything but perfect, they haven't earned the privilege. Use a leash or long line; remember that if your out-of-control dog gets into a fight with an aggressive but leashed dog, the fault is yours. It's not worth two sets of vet bills.
This is my go-to local place for camping and hiking alike. Michaux sits on the northern terminus of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and though they are scarcely more than foothills here compared to their majesty in more well-known areas like TN, NC, and VA, it is a place of peace and beauty all the same. Like much of the state, it's a young mixed deciduous and coniferous forest, with some open and sparsely wooded prairie/meadow sections.
GuideWe stayed at this campground during the COVID pandemic so not much was open at the campground. But from the looks of it they have a small mini golf area, nice size basketball court and a good size building for activities. 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!
This campground is minutes from town and is practically on the battlefield.
GuideThe staff are very friendly and helpful. The campground was very well maintained and clean. Bathhouse is updated and clean. The RV sites are gravel and pretty level. Fun filled weekend of activities for the whole family. Close to historic Gettysburg battleground. Fantastic horse rescue on the campground. You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback. Nice catch and release pond in campground. Will definitely be returning.
TravelerPros: Very friendly and accommodating staff. We camped in October and we had pretty much the entire place to ourselves. Beautiful lake and overall picturesque setting. Free range, friendly goats wander around, which is kinda fun. Cons: WiFi signal weak and intermittent, even close to router. We camped in sites with hookups near office and entrance and the toilets are really far. The showers are even farther-like a 15-20 minute walk with bad signage directing to. The view from the showers were breathtaking, but the showers themselves left much to be desired. We had told they had just been cleaned, but they were so old and rust stained that it still felt kinda gross. Cobwebs along ceiling, dim lighting and worn paint added to the overall dinginess. There are no hooks to hang a towel and no shower curtain, wall or door so the bench with my clothes and towel got wet as did the floor, so you step out of shower into a puddle.
TravelerI had made plans to stay at SSP-PA as my first stopover spot, post leaving my beach friends on the East Coast. The morning drive started early, had several stops and starts, and I was once again glad that my big dog was along for the ride. Shawnee is a lovely state park and I was really pleased with my brief stay. 'Though we were only sleeping the one night, I found the staff to be pleasant and the site spacious. It might have helped that the doggo and I were about the only ones in our campground loop, aside from the campground hosts but the area felt well-maintained and well-proportioned. We had a good night's rest, after enjoying a post-dinner campfire and getting to breathe in the fresh, woodsy air. While sitting fireside, I got to enjoy the local wildlife, from birds to young deer, around the edges of my campsite. The campground restroom was clean and a fair size. I would definitely recommend it and I will certainly look into another reservation, the next time I roadtrip through Pennsylvania.
GuideThis was our third stay here on our somewhat annual family meetup in Gettysburg. I always appreciate the near solitude experience of this campground as 90% of the sites are RV sites, that are kept away from the tenting area. The tenting area is calm and has a creek right next to it to listen to in the evening and morning. One of the drawbacks of this campground is that a lot of the trees are black walnut trees and the squirrels do not shy away from dropping the walnuts like bombs on your head, car, or table when you're preparing breakfast.
Gear Review: I won a pair of Treadagain sandals for one of my last campground reviews and this was the first camping trip that I took with them. When I initially bought them, they gave me an abrasion cut and I contemplated sending them back, but after wearing them more, they became more comfortable and I have found them to be ideal for walking around in all day since they have thick bottoms.
Artillery Ridge Campground sits just beyond Gettysburg, about 40 miles east of Mercersburg, Pennsylvania. The area's rolling terrain ranges from 500-1,200 feet elevation in the Michaux State Forest region, with mild summers averaging 85°F and winters often dropping below freezing. Equestrian campgrounds near Mercersburg offer specialized amenities for both riders and horses, with several facilities providing dedicated horse camping options within an hour's drive.
Trail riding access points: At Colonel Denning State Park Campground, riders can access trail systems with varying difficulties. "Trail head close to site and was a very difficult hike with amazing views!! Wide open area to swim that was very clean and well kept," notes Casey L.
Battlefield exploration: The historic Gettysburg area provides unique riding opportunities. According to one visitor at Gettysburg Campground, "Close to battlefield. Not far to go anywhere walking. Lots of history nearby."
Swimming and fishing: Many campgrounds offer water recreation alongside horse amenities. "Great spot. Nice creek with ducks. Close to battlefield," says Jenny P. about Gettysburg Campground, while Colonel Denning features "a great stream right behind the sites."
Quiet, natural settings: Many equestrian campgrounds maintain a peaceful atmosphere despite their active nature. "Very quiet and small campground. We love the dog friendly sites near the water, the kids and pups play all day!" says Casey L. about Colonel Denning State Park.
Level, spacious sites: The Cove Campground offers sites that accommodate both horses and camping equipment comfortably. "Campsites were spacious and mostly level," notes Christopher K., while another camper adds, "We have gone in big groups and also just the boyfriend and I and have always left wanting to go back soon!"
Varied terrain for riding: Horse riders appreciate the diverse landscapes available for exploration. In Michaux State Forest at Teaberry Parking Area Campsites, visitors find "a very large gravel lot with 5 sites along one side, pretty well spaced. The campsites were pretty," though one camper notes seasonal challenges with "lantern flies actively trying to get into our rig."
Permit requirements: Michaux State Forest's horse camping areas like Teaberry require free permits obtained online, and these sites remain open year-round.
Variable cell service: Connectivity fluctuates throughout the region, especially in forested areas. At Shawnee State Park Campground, campers report "a somewhat dated playground was located in the A Loop," while one visitor notes, "As remote as the campground feels, there was a surprising amount of road noise."
Water availability: Horse owners should check water access before arrival. In some areas like Michaux State Forest, campers report bringing their own water as drinking sources aren't available at all sites.
Site layouts vary significantly: "We have a 35' TT and there was no way it was going to fit in the site we originally booked," reports a Shawnee State Park visitor, highlighting the importance of verifying site dimensions when traveling with horses and larger vehicles.
Playground access: Many horse campgrounds include family amenities. "Fun filled weekend of activities for the whole family. Close to historic Gettysburg battleground," reports Zack about Artillery Ridge Campground.
Educational opportunities: Horseback history tours provide unique learning experiences. "Stand in the footsteps of General Buford at Senitary Ridge in the cupola overseeing the battlefield," describes a visitor at Artillery Ridge who took guided battlefield tours.
Swimming areas: The Cove Campground offers "a small beach" and "a lake," with one visitor noting it would be "the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day." Another camper adds that "Beautiful lake and overall picturesque setting. Free range, friendly goats wander around, which is kinda fun."
Hookup placements: At Artillery Ridge, RVers note that "the sewer hook up was tricky because the pipe was so far down in the concrete block but we made it work." Site selection matters significantly for larger rigs.
Level, stable parking: Horse trailers and RVs need adequate space and stable ground. "Some sites have gravel pads that were level and vary in length from 20' to 115'," reports a Shawnee State Park visitor, while noting "Most of the non-electric sites had no definable pads at all and as mentioned, were not level."
Proximity to wash facilities: After trail riding, access to horse washing areas becomes important. Artillery Ridge provides dedicated facilities, while other campgrounds may require alternative arrangements for cleaning horses and equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Mercersburg, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Mercersburg, PA is Gettysburg Campground with a 4-star rating from 26 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Mercersburg, PA?
TheDyrt.com has all 11 equestrian camping locations near Mercersburg, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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