French Creek State Park, located near Mohnton, Pennsylvania, encompasses 7,526 acres across Chester and Berks Counties. The park sits at elevations between 500-800 feet, creating varied terrain for campers. Winters can drop below freezing while summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons for equestrians and other outdoor enthusiasts.
What to do
Trail riding access: French Creek State Park offers several miles of trails where horses are permitted, though dedicated bridle paths are limited. "There is a lot of hiking, family friendly... We did take our inflatable kayak out on the water, and it was lovely!" notes Katie M. about French Creek State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes near Mohnton provide fishing options for campers with horses. "There are two lakes in French Creek, Hopewell and Scott's Run and each contain many species of fish. We spent Saturday afternoon fishing but not catching anything at Scott's Run," shares Mandy F. about Tuscarora State Park Campground.
Off-season camping: Weather permitting, some campgrounds in the region remain open year-round. "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," reports Galit P. about French Creek State Park.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Campers appreciate the well-spaced sites at several campgrounds near Mohnton. "The sites were super spacious and private. There was enough room for a full overlanding setup, three vehicles, a hammock, two dogs and a two person tent with plenty of room to spare," writes Paige H. about Tuscarora State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Many horse-friendly campgrounds maintain quality facilities. "Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers. Nice area to wash dishes. Very nice playground area and clean," shares Jen R. about Starlite Camping Resort, which is approximately 17 miles from Mohnton.
Natural separation: Tree cover provides privacy between sites at many campgrounds. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," explains another Jen R. review about French Creek State Park Campground.
What you should know
Horse containment requirements: While dedicated horse corrals aren't common near Mohnton, portable containment systems are permitted at several parks. Campers at Hibernia County Park should note that "it's a county run one that works on a first come first serve basis, which is fine if there are others close by. They are wooded sites and have 2 loops. There is no store, but there are places close to get supplies," according to Jim N.
Alcohol restrictions: Several parks near Mohnton prohibit alcohol. "The park is dry, no alcohol. No hook ups either," reports Jim N. about Hibernia County Park.
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian-friendly campgrounds require advance booking. "We were able to book our sites online which was also a nice feature. The website is very easy to use and you can also call a phone number and they can help you book your stay at any State Park," explains a reviewer about campsite booking procedures.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly amenities. "Very nice playground situated conveniently between the loops of the campground. It had some slides, a bridge, lots of monkey bars, ladders to climb on and the best feature was the zip line," mentions a reviewer about Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area, located about 30 miles from Mohnton.
Swimming options: Lakes and pools provide water recreation for families camping with horses. "The main attraction for this park is their lake, which you can swim in, fish, kayak or drop in a boat. There is a playground for kids to play in that is well maintained," shares Tiffany K. about Tuscarora State Park.
Alternative accommodations: For families seeking more comfort while traveling with horses, consider non-tent options. "My girlfriends and I just stayed in the yurts for annual glamping trip. We reserved 3 of 4 yurts for first weekend in June...non peak season. Peak season requires minimum 5 day reservation," explains Mandy F. about Tuscarora State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV campers should check site specifications before booking at equestrian campgrounds. "Generally, my husband and I use a larger ez up tent, but I liked this tent specifically for the design which is reminiscent of the tent my parents used when I was a child and figured it would be a good option for shorter weekend trips," shares Ellen C. about Haldeman Tract Campsites at Weiser State Forest.
Hookup availability: Electric hookups are available at some horse campgrounds near Mohnton, but full-service sites are limited. "We had two sites this trip with water and electric, but they do have quite a few full hook-up sites. Overall the sites were large, with trees between, providing additional privacy," notes Craig F. about Starlite Camping Resort.
Site locations: RVers should research specific loops that accommodate larger vehicles. "If you are hauling a big camper you'll need power for the hills," advises Chris G. about Starlite Camping Resort, one of the horse-friendly campgrounds within driving distance of Mohnton.