Loyalsock State Forest offers multiple equestrian camping options within 50 miles of Milton, Pennsylvania. The forest's diverse terrain includes over 114,000 acres of mixed hardwood forests with elevations ranging from 800 to 2,100 feet. Trail conditions vary seasonally, with spring thaws often creating muddy sections on horse trails through May, particularly in low-lying areas after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Creek exploration: Tuscarora State Forest provides access to numerous creeks for cooling off. "We love going here because of the creek. You can fish, swim and just relax! Pets allowed and don't have to be on a leash. Campsites are not even any where near each other. It's like you have the whole forest to yourself!" reports Jen R. about Tuscarora State Park Campground.
Scenic hiking: Trails throughout the region offer various difficulty levels. According to Lara L., "can hike flat rock with a beautiful overlook. there is a a campground as well as a mini shelter on the flat rock trail. we stayed at the mini shelter." Seasonal campers should note that tall grasses in summer months harbor ticks, requiring regular checks after trail activities.
Lake recreation: Little Buffalo State Park Campground features a large lake for multiple activities. Chelsea K. shares, "Not much luck fishing but all the turtles were cool and just paddling around in the kayak is always a good time. The hiking was good as well. There are trails with some neat little obstacles to work out on and the historical mill was well worth the trip."
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: Remote locations provide excellent night sky viewing. At Tuscarora State Forest, Zoltan P. notes, "No noise pollution. No light pollution. No large towns anywhere near here all towns with very minimal population." This makes the area ideal for astrophotography and constellation observation during clear nights.
Wildlife encounters: The forests host diverse animal species. "Found a couple of large black rat snakes near our campsite. There are rattle snakes in the region I've been told too," explains Zoltan P. Campers should store food properly as "There are bear in the region so be weary with your food."
Spacious campsites: Ferryboat Campsites provides riverside accommodations. Lawrence D. describes, "They offer the typical tent camping environment, mostly out in an open field and good walk to showers/head. Other than that was enjoyable place to stay." Many campgrounds in the region offer well-spaced sites that provide privacy from neighboring campers.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies greatly throughout the region. "If you want to be disconnected, literally because there is no cell service, then this is the place for you," notes Jen R. about Tuscarora. Similarly, Zoltan P. reports, "No cell service at all unless you drive up to the top of the mountain."
Permit requirements: Many state forest campsites require advance registration. "It is free to camp at one of the spots but you must call the respective ranger station ahead of time and let them know your car name ect and they issue you a permit free of charge," explains Zoltan P. Permits help forest managers track usage and ensure campsite availability.
Water availability: Most equestrian campgrounds near Milton lack running water. At World's End Equestrian Campground (Bridle Trailhead), riders must bring water for themselves and their horses or collect from natural sources. This requires additional planning for longer stays.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access considerations: Little Buffalo State Park offers swimming facilities but requires separate payment. Dawn T. advises, "They do have a pool but not included in the camping price and it gets very crowded." Families should budget for this additional cost when planning their stay.
Distance between amenities: Some parks have facilities spread across large areas. Paula R. cautions about Little Buffalo, "Only downfall is we have smaller children and we could not bike from the campground to the pool, it was too far and the hill to get back was too big for them to ride up. Pool was great once you got there."
Yurt options: Alternative accommodations provide comfort for families new to camping. Mandy F. shares about Tuscarora State Park, "Yurts have 2 sets of bunk beds with one set having full size mattress on bottom. Yurts have heat and fans. Full size refrigerator, stove and microwave. No water but directly across from facilities with basin sinks outside for cleaning dishes, etc."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing concerns: Ferryboat Campsites offers riverfront RV spots but with limited separation. Robin notes, "Site was level and shaded, but very close to neighbors. Most sites were occupied by permanent or seasonal residents. Bathrooms and grounds were very clean."
Weather monitoring: Riverside locations require vigilance during rain events. "Storms with heavy rain in the area made the river rise. We were told the campground is susceptible to flooding, so check the weather when you come!" advises Robin about Ferryboat Campsites. RVers should have evacuation plans ready during stormy periods.
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