Lower Lake Campground Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area features specialized amenities for equestrian visitors beyond the standard electric, water and sewer hookups. Trail access from the camping area connects to over 25 miles of horse-friendly paths throughout the 3,000-acre Promised Land State Park. Winter camping remains available for equestrians when other campgrounds close, with reduced services but maintained trail access. Riders appreciate the mix of terrain from gentle wooded paths to more technical routes.
What to do
Water activities near horseback trails: At Pickerel Point Campground, campers can combine trail riding with water sports. "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," notes Debbie W. Many sites offer direct water access for horses to cool off after riding.
Hiking with non-riders: Family members without horses can explore the Conservation Nature Loop while riders take their mounts on longer excursions. "The Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked," reports Alaina Z. The 1.5-mile loop features educational signage about local wildlife and forest management practices.
Seasonal riding experiences: Winter trail riding offers unique opportunities at Stokes State Forest when crowds thin out. "We went tent camping for 3 nights, easy to get to, bathrooms were clean and so was the site. Sites were a good size and not on top of each other," comments Siobhan D. The forest maintains select trails for winter use when conditions permit.
What campers like
Trail variety for all skill levels: Horse campgrounds near Mount Pocono offer riding terrain for beginners through advanced equestrians. At Beechwood Area, riders access both flat terrain and more technical trails. "This park is large and has many different campgrounds. We stayed in lower lake beechwood site 323. Was decent site only downside was fire pit area was very un-level for camping chairs, otherwise it's a nice wooded site with privacy," explains Dawn R.
Evening wildlife watching: Many equestrian sites border wildlife habitat. "Only shortly after we settled into our tent did we hear foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise," describes Christina H. from Mountainview Campground. Riders frequently spot wildlife along morning trails.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness ranks high on camper priorities. "The bathrooms were clean with hot showers," notes Kelly F. Most equestrian campgrounds maintain separate shower facilities for riders returning from dusty trails, with extended hours during peak season.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Horse camping sites fill quickly during summer weekends. "We stayed in the Pickerel Point of the park. We had full hookups (20/30/50 amp, water & sewer). There's no cable but we were able to pickup about 6 channels with our digital antenna," reports Debbie W.
Fire ring design challenges: Several campgrounds feature unusually tall fire rings. "Sites have nice sizable fire pits, but they are very tall. It's difficult to cook over them, and sitting around the campfire in the evening is a much less visually appealing experience," advises Alaina Z. Consider bringing a portable grill for cooking.
Winter water access: During colder months, campgrounds winterize most water systems. At Lackawanna State Park, "Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers," mentions Mara S. Pack additional water containers for horses during off-season camping.
Tips for camping with families
Multi-activity planning: Families with both riders and non-riders can find shared experiences. "This was my second visit in the cold months. The park is large with many hiking trails and ice fishing," notes Mara S. Non-riders can fish while others explore trails, then meet for shared meals.
Site selection for mixed groups: Choose locations that accommodate both horse trailers and standard camping. "The campground was full of mostly families. If you wanted to shower, you would have to head to the group campsite not too far but you need to drive," explains Adeline M. Request sites near bathroom facilities when camping with young children.
Evening entertainment options: Plan for rainy evenings when trail riding isn't possible. "We stayed in the cabins. It's great to have the small kitchen when camping with the family. A must see campground," shares Amy B. Pack games and activities for after riding hours.
Tips from RVers
Trailer parking considerations: At Keen Lake Resort, equestrian sites accommodate various trailer configurations. "The RV sites are spaced out nicely. There are plenty of things to do; paddle boats, row boats, swimming pool, snack bar/campstore, activities, etc," reports Charlotte D. Request pull-through sites when bringing larger horse trailers.
Electric needs for horse care: RV sites with 50-amp service support horse care equipment like fans and water heaters. "Our site had a fire ring and picnic table. We hopped in the car and drove the 2 mins to get to the beach. There was always parking," notes Emily Z. Position RVs to create wind breaks for horse comfort during cooler nights.
Level site importance: Look for sites with level trailer parking and tethering areas. "This is a smallish campground with many seasonal spots and some rental spots. Our spot was #27 and pretty spacious. The showers were free and clean with hot water and decent pressure," shares Sarah. Request sites away from activity centers for calmer horses.
