Equestrian Camping near New Hope, PA

French Creek State Park Campground offers multiple camping experiences across four distinct loops with varying accommodations for horseback riders. The designated equestrian sites in Loop A provide more level terrain and less rocky ground—essential for setting up horse-friendly camp areas. These sites offer good access to the park's extensive trail system, where riders can explore over 35 miles of trails including connections to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site.

What to do

Kayak on lakes: At Spruce Run Recreation Area, the two lakes provide ideal conditions for water activities. "You can bring a camper, tent, or use one of the cabins. Many sites have a lovely water view of the reservoir. Several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area," reports Jocelyn G., highlighting multiple water options available.

Explore mountain biking trails: Allaire State Park offers a range of cycling opportunities. "Mountain Biking from easy, paved trails to several miles of single track with everything in between. Working village and antique train are available most of the year," notes Beau B., describing the diverse riding options.

Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park provides archery facilities for visitors looking for target practice. "Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from," explains Dan W., describing activity options beyond just trail riding.

What campers like

Secluded wooded sites: Mountainview Campground receives high marks for its forest setting. "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," shares Christina H., describing the quieter atmosphere horse owners appreciate.

Wildlife viewing: The natural habitats around horse-friendly campgrounds provide excellent wildlife spotting. "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!" recounts Christina H., describing the natural environment.

Clean facilities: Brendan Byrne State Forest maintains well-kept amenities. "Great place for a weekend getaway. Very well maintained campsites and facilities," notes Marcus N., highlighting the importance of good infrastructure for horse campers.

What you should know

Tick prevention: Several campgrounds report tick issues. "I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2. That was so crazy because we were just sitting by our camper," warns Laura Y. from Turkey Swamp Park, noting a concern for both horses and humans.

Highway noise: Spruce Run Recreation Area has some sites affected by traffic sounds. "Late at night you can hear the drone of a major highway," mentions Frank J., noting a factor to consider when selecting sites for horses that may be sensitive to noise.

Weather considerations: Winter camping requires preparation. "They don't have primitive campsites so your stuck paying the higher rate even though you don't need the hookups," explains Dan W., pointing out that some facilities charge the same regardless of hookup usage.

Tips for camping with families

Look for playgrounds: Turkey Swamp Park offers kid-friendly facilities. "Centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door. Staff was awesome! Attentive and outgoing," shares Dan W., describing amenities that complement horse camping.

Choose spacious sites: When bringing both horses and children, site size matters. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest. Sites are tent and RV sites and you are allowed to have a tent on the site with an RV at no extra charge," explains Katheryn N., highlighting the flexibility for mixed accommodations.

Consider wildlife education: The natural surroundings provide learning opportunities. "We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. We were worried about bugs, but we didn't even use mosquito repellent and didn't get a single bite!" reports Jaewook P., describing a positive experience for younger visitors.

Tips from RVers

Check hookup locations: At French Creek, placement of utilities requires planning. "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," mentions Jen R., noting the convenient setup for horse trailers with living quarters.

Road conditions: Camp Mohican Outdoor Center offers mixed access. "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," explains Shawn B., describing facilities helpful for group horse camping events.

Winter access: French Creek maintains year-round availability in certain areas. "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 Galit P., mentioning off-season options when other horse campgrounds might be closed.