Equestrian camping near New Wilmington, Pennsylvania offers access to forested terrain with diverse riding options across the region. The area features mixed hardwood forests and rolling hills with elevations ranging from 900 to 1,300 feet above sea level. Weather conditions vary seasonally, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during daytime hours and cooler spring and fall seasons requiring extra layers for overnight stays.
What to do
Trail riding access: The North Country National Scenic Trail connects through several area parks, providing long-distance riding options. "I believe it's once a year that they have oil machinery demonstrations. Very interesting. You can also take a train ride through the park," notes Denise P.
Fishing opportunities: Several parks offer shoreline fishing access where riders can take breaks from the saddle. At Two Mile Run County Park, "Couple beautiful walk in tent sites right on the water. Plenty of nice hiking trails. Great beach for kids," according to Joanie B.
Disc golf course: The surrounding area includes recreational options for when you're not riding. "I have not yet camped here but passed it on my hike the other day and knew I hadn't seen it in the Dyrt yet, so I wanted to add it for others. This is a hike in or paddle in only campground," reports Casey L. about Danner Primitive Campground.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: The campgrounds near New Wilmington typically offer larger sites that accommodate horse trailers. "Private wooded sites...Didn't explore much of the campground here, seemed huge with lots of sites, we basically had a whole area of sites to ourselves, and it was a very wooded area," writes Robyn S. about Two Mile Run County Park.
Clean facilities: "Bathrooms were clean separate showers verizon works well here," notes Joe I. about West Branch State Park, which is accessible from the New Wilmington area.
Natural surroundings: The wooded environment provides shade and privacy for campers. "This campsite was close to an archery tournament for me. It is a huge campsite that is remote and peaceful. I will try to get this place again next year," shares Daniel about Starr Farm.
What you should know
Site reservations: Book early for equestrian camping, especially during peak seasons. "This is a hike in or paddle in only campground. The shortest distance is about 2 miles from the trailhead at the Kennerdell bridge, but there are other trailheads throughout the tract also. This is meant more to be a stop along a paddling or hiking trip than a destination camping trip - you must get a permit to stay more than one night," explains Casey L.
Water access limitations: Some campgrounds have restrictions on water usage or availability. "They are on a well so there is limited water and they don't allow you to fill up your on board tank. Make sure you fill up before you go!" warns Bounding Around about Beaver Creek State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Weather conditions affect trail riding opportunities throughout the year. "We stayed at the park for Christmas Eve the past two years. Had the Adirondack shelters to ourselves each year. Firewood is available but you have to donate some cash, split it and haul it to your shelter," shares Travis S.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with activities for children when horse riding isn't the main focus. "The lake is nice for canoeing," mentions Kemberly S. about camping options near New Wilmington.
Safety considerations: Keep children away from unfamiliar horses and maintain proper supervision. "When staying at two mile you will find the sites are separated by trees and offer you your own little private area. The prices are good and you truly are in nature," notes John S.
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer programs about local history and ecology that can enhance a family horse camping trip. "We have stayed at the park for Christmas Eve the past two years. Had the Adirondack shelters to ourselves each year. Very quiet and no light pollution for a town or city, Providing great moonlit nights," describes Travis S. about Oil Creek State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose equestrian camping areas that accommodate larger rigs and trailers. "Stayed here several times in the summer of 2020 bc it was only an hour and a half from home and usually had sites available on or near the lake," shares Rose S. about Mosquito Lake State Park.
Leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some horse camping areas. "Our site was labeled slight slope. That was a joke. We were only off 2 inches side to side but front to back we had to lower the front 15 inches. The jack was down as low as it would go and we were still off by 1.5 inches," recounts Andrea F.
Electrical hookups: Check availability of power for horse trailers with living quarters. "Affordable, lots of things to do like fishing, hiking trails, canoeing kayaking, clean shower house, good signal for Verizon," notes Bobster L.
