Promised Land State Park offers several equestrian camping options beyond the Lower Lake Campground Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area. Located in the Pocono Mountains region at elevations reaching 1,800 feet, the area maintains cooler temperatures year-round compared to surrounding lowlands. Most equestrian sites require advance reservations during the peak May-September season due to limited availability.
What to do
Trail riding at Stokes State Forest: Equestrians access over 63 miles of marked trails including sections of the Appalachian Trail. "We stayed on a beautiful mossy bank, next to a river and a lake. The area was quiet and peaceful, and areas with waterfalls and great views were easily accessible," shares Kiya N. from Stokes State Forest.
Water recreation with horses: Several lakes permit horses to access designated watering areas during daylight hours. At Pickerel Point Campground, "This place is absolutely stunning. The lake is crystal clear and the beach is spotless. You absolutely have to bring a kayak/inflatable boat, but if you don't own one, don't worry, you can rent one," explains Debbie W. from Pickerel Point Campground — Promised Land State Park.
Seasonal equestrian events: Local farms host competitions and group rides from April through October. Spruce Run Recreation Area offers additional options where "The campsites were well spaced apart. Some sites located around the opposite side of the ring back up to a babbling brook. The rushing water will soothe you to sleep," notes Trip Over Life.
What campers like
Secluded equestrian sites: Many horse camping locations provide sufficient distance between sites for animal comfort. At Mountainview Campground, "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," writes Christina H. from Mountainview Campground.
Accessible trail connections: Direct access to multiple trail systems without trailering horses between rides. One camper at Camp Mohican Outdoor Center notes, "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... The AT runs right through the camp."
Clean facilities for extended stays: Bathhouses and water access points receive regular maintenance. At Spruce Run, "Clean bathrooms with very hot water and flushable toilet. The grounds are full of grass which makes my tent easy to pitch. Most campsite has a view of the Reservoir when sundown has amazing sunsets," explains Yolanda T.
What you should know
Coggins test requirements: All horses must have current negative Coggins certificates available for inspection during check-in. State parks enforce this rule strictly year-round.
Limited water hookups: Many equestrian sites lack direct water connections. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, "Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers," explains Mara S.
Manure disposal protocols: Designated disposal areas must be used rather than spreading manure on-site. Failure to comply can result in fines or being asked to leave.
Reservation deadlines: Horse camping sites often book 6-9 months in advance, particularly for holiday weekends and fall foliage season. Some areas close completely during hunting seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly horse programs: Several campgrounds offer supervised riding activities for children. At Keen Lake, "My boys absolutely love it and always have something to do. They have activity coordinators that make sure there is something to do for all ages every hour of the day!" shares Mike H. from Keen Lake Resort Campground.
Combined water/horse activities: Sites near lakes allow families to enjoy both riding and water recreation. "We stayed at Pickerel Point and Deerfield depending on season. No complaints and was pleasantly surprised they have programs for kids. Can never go wrong here," says John R.
Beginner-friendly trail options: Several shorter loop trails accommodate younger or less experienced riders. Beechwood Area campground offers "Short walk to bathrooms, showers and lake. Though had to drive to park and beaches. Would go back again and might try to stay in Pickerel point campground instead," notes Dawn R.
Tips from RVers
Electric requirements for horse trailers: Most equestrian sites offer 30/50 amp service, but may require additional adapters. At Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area, "We stayed in the Beechwood location at the Promised Land state park and despite the constant rain, it was quiet and peaceful. You could only ever hear the wildlife. The RV pads were spaced put perfectly and we all had our own picnic table and fire pit," says Maze M.
Trailer parking configurations: Some sites require specific positioning to accommodate both living quarters and horse areas. Assess your rig dimensions when booking.
Off-season considerations: Several equestrian campgrounds remain open year-round with limited services. "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers," notes Mara S. about winter camping options.
