Horse campgrounds near Millersville, Pennsylvania are limited in the immediate area, though equestrian enthusiasts can find options within a 30-40 mile radius. The region features rolling hills at elevations between 300-500 feet above sea level, with moderate seasonal temperature variations. Summer camping temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, while spring and fall can dip into the 40s overnight, requiring appropriate gear for overnight horse trips.
What to do
Trail riding at Fair Hill: The Natural Resources Management Area in Elkton, Maryland provides over 80 miles of maintained trails for horseback riding through varied terrain about 35 miles from Millersville. While primarily functioning as a group campground, equestrians appreciate the extensive trail system. A camper notes, "There are two primitive youth group camping areas. There are specific rules that need to be followed and the guidelines are on the website" at Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds near Millersville offer fishing as a primary activity. At Hibernia County Park in Coatesville (about 25 miles northwest), campers can access both a dedicated children's fishing pond and a larger lake. "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," notes one visitor at Hibernia County Park.
Water activities beyond horseback riding: For those looking to complement horse activities with water recreation, Lums Pond State Park (about 28 miles south) offers diverse options. "There is a huge lake where you can rent canoes and kayaks," reports a visitor, adding that the park features "trails for mountain biking or hiking, a frisbee golf course, playground at the campground and at the lake."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: While horse-specific amenities are limited, campers appreciate spacious sites at several campgrounds near Millersville. At French Creek State Park, a visitor highlights: "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers" at French Creek State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds within driving distance of Millersville consistently receive praise for maintenance. At Starlite Camping Resort (about 20 miles northeast), a camper reports: "Starlite offers a wide variety of amenities such as a community pool, general store, snack bar, playground area, toilets, indoor shower stalls, daily activities, pets permitted, water/electric utilities and laundry units. Staff was very friendly!"
Scenery and natural settings: The region's landscape offers picturesque camping backdrops. At Ferryboat Campsites (about 40 miles northwest), visitors highlight riverside views: "We stayed at a Susquehanna river view site with full hookups for 2 nights. Site was level and shaded, but very close to neighbors... Bathrooms and grounds were very clean" at Ferryboat Campsites.
What you should know
Varying levels of amenities: While equestrian-oriented camping is limited, general camping facilities range from primitive to full-service. At Hibernia County Park, "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."
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds have limited operating seasons or different availability through the year. At Starlite Camping Resort, the season runs "May 1 to Nov 1," making it unavailable for winter horse camping trips.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially those with equestrian facilities. For Lums Pond State Park, a camper advises: "Book early because it fills up fast!" Another adds, "I understand why it is so difficult to get a reservation at Lums Pond. I don't know if it's the host campers or the management, but they're definitely doing something right."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds within driving distance of Millersville offer dedicated children's facilities. At Lums Pond State Park Campground, a visitor shares: "Our daughter really enjoyed the playground (which was excellent, by my standards)... She fought us about leaving the playground, and really would have been content if that was all we did."
Educational opportunities: Families interested in both horses and history can combine activities. At Artillery Ridge Campground (about 55 miles west), a visitor explains: "You can't get any closer to history than here. 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."
Safety considerations: Proper planning for horse trails with children requires research on terrain difficulty. "The trails were well marked, and the day we took a hike, we ended up on the equestrian trail that runs all the way around the pond. It was a long, but easy hike," notes a Lums Pond visitor, indicating suitable terrain for families.
Tips from RVers
Leveling and site selection: RVers with horse trailers should research site conditions carefully. At Artillery Ridge Campground, a camper mentions: "Nice pull through site for out 21ft popup. Site was pretty level. Pool, mini golf and live music were great. Also amazing location to the battlefield and all the tourist attractions."
Hookup configurations: RVers should verify campground utilities match their needs, especially when traveling with horses that require additional space. A French Creek visitor reports: "Stayed here 2 nights without a reservation. We were in the D loop which is rustic with no hookups. Quiet, very few people mid-week. Spacious sites."
Seasonal flexibility: Off-season camping offers advantages for horse owners seeking quieter conditions. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! If you're traveling through, there are many places to eat nearby," notes a winter visitor to French Creek, adding that "the honor system of payment at the office makes it really easy to come in late and leave early."
