Equestrian Camping near Newville, PA

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    Michaux State Forest offers designated motorized parking lot sites that serve as equestrian sites for horse camping near Newville. The forest accommodates horse camping with hitching posts and a two-step mounting block available at the Teaberry location. Horse owners must obtain a free online permit before camping, with these equestrian-friendly parking lot sites open year-round unlike the standard motorized sites which close after the third Sunday following Thanksgiving. Pets including horses must be under control at all times to avoid disturbing other campers or wildlife. The campsites provide fire rings, with some also featuring picnic tables for visitor use.

    The Appalachian Trail runs through portions of Michaux State Forest, providing extensive riding opportunities on horse-permitted trails. Located in the northern terminus of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the terrain offers varied riding experiences through young mixed deciduous and coniferous forest, with some open prairie and meadow sections suitable for horses. Trail conditions remain primitive, with no drinking water available at sites, though some areas feature creeks that can serve as water sources for horses after proper treatment. Cell service varies significantly throughout the forest, with some areas having excellent coverage while others have none without a substantial drive or hike. Fires are prohibited from March 1 to May 25 and during high fire danger periods, which affects camping plans for equestrians visiting during spring months.

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    Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Newville (14)

      1. Colonel Denning State Park Campground

      4.8(9)8mi from Newville50 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Cleanest facilities of the year so far, amazing large flat sites, dog friendly and great stream right behind the sites."

      "We stayed in site 28 which was a walk-in site, this was perfect for us since we wanted to be further away from people and the light from the bathroom/shower facility."

      from $20 - $38 / night

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      2. Michaux State Forest

      4.0(6)13mi from NewvilleRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "Some reviewers have confused nearby State Parks with the actual State Forest, resulting in inaccurate information."

      "Every January for the last few years some friends and I have gone and camped along the Appalachian Trail."

      from $10 / night

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      3. Little Buffalo State Park Campground

      4.5(19)23mi from Newville52 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "A playground is near bathhouse in the campground, along with several hiking trails. The dump station is easily accessible. Firewood is also available for purchase at the campground."

      "The driving path is gravel with a steep hill at the end so if you can help it I would avoid sites 32,34,36 as they are VERY difficult to back into with larger rigs."

      from $22 - $92 / night

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      4. Gettysburg Campground

      4.0(26)25mi from NewvilleRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "I always appreciate the near solitude experience of this campground as 90% of the sites are RV sites, that are kept away from the tenting area."

      "If you’re looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn’t it."

      5. Artillery Ridge Campground

      4.3(26)27mi from NewvilleRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "This park is a perfect location if you want to explore Gettysburg National Historical Site as you can literally walk across the street and be in the park or venture½ mile up the road and you come to the"

      "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded."

      6. Teaberry Parking Area Campsites — Michaux State Forest

      3.0(1)23mi from Newville5 sitesRVs, Tents

      from $10 / night

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      7. South Block — Tuscarora State Forest

      Be the first to review16mi from Newville32 sitesRVs, Tents

      from $10 / night

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      8. Ferryboat Campsites

      4.0(6)34mi from NewvilleRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "With that said they do have primitive camping spots next to the putt putt course and water only tent sits at the upper feild."

      "Lots to do very close to water and many things to do in and around camp ground. Stayed for a few days would go back."

      from $30 - $100 / night

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      9. Peggy's Hill Parking Area Campsites — Michaux State Forest

      Be the first to review25mi from Newville2 sitesRVs, Tents

      from $10 / night

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      10. North Block — Tuscarora State Forest

      Be the first to review26mi from Newville16 sitesRVs, Tents

      from $10 / night

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    Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Newville, PA

    5 Photos of 14 Newville Campgrounds


    Equestrian Camping Reviews near Newville, PA

    94 Reviews of 14 Newville Campgrounds


    • Nancy W.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jul. 30, 2021

      Artillery Ridge Campground

      Great Location to Battlefield

      This park is a perfect location if you want to explore Gettysburg National Historical Site as you can literally walk across the street and be in the park or venture½ mile up the road and you come to the park’s main visitor center. The campground has a bunch of different sites whether you want to spend more money for a premium full hook-up or save a few bucks and just get water and electric. There are lots of tent sites, cabins, and horse stalls with a corral for those traveling with horses. The park is also very close to the historic downtown so you don’t have to drive too far for the attractions. 

      We were able to do contactless check-in by making the reservation and paying over the phone. When we arrived, they had a packet out on a picnic table for us with directions to our site and information about the park and the surrounding area. But, the best part of the check-in was that we got a free bundle of wood and the cutest little s’mores packet which had just enough fixings for the two of us. Such a great touch that we really appreciated. We had a gravel pull thru site which was easy to navigate in and out of with our tow car attached and was plenty long enough. The roads are gravel but were not dusty. The site and patio were gravel and a mix of grass. The campground was very clean and well-cared for. 

      Some of the sites are in the open without much shade but some other areas have some nice shade.  Most of the tent section is pretty open with a few trees scattered about.  Some of the sites (i.e., 82) is very close to the playground and the fishing pond which get quite a bit of action so be aware of the nearby amenities when you choose a site.  

      This park is well-suited for people traveling with horses. There are multiple pens and a fenced riding arena and ample RV sites and cabins in the near the horse stalls and there is a hose wash rack. 

      Some of the things we liked about this park:

      • There is a big section of the park dedicated to horses as the National Riding Stables are located on the grounds. You can get guided tours of the battlefield on their rescue horses.

      • A 24/7 firewood dispensing machine– which we had never seen before• Catch and release fishing pond• Free putt putt golf.

      • Heated swimming pool

      • Clean, well-kept campground• Lots of activities for kids with playgrounds, volleyball basketball, game room, camp store, movies, pool, etc.

      We paid $44/night for our full hook-up site (#45) which we didn’t think was too expensive or unreasonable. Luckily for us, nobody was next to us during our stay (in May) as the neighboring sites were pretty close and this campground probably feels very tight when it’s full. The close proximity to Gettysburg NHS was the biggest plus of this park for us.

    • MJ B.
      Jun. 19, 2024

      Artillery Ridge Campground

      Camping as close to history as you can get

      Spent a weekend at Gettysburg. We camped at Artillery Ridge Campground, which served as an artillery storage/staging area for the Union during the battle. Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts. So close to history. We have been to Gettysburg before, but going with the kids again being older, we all had a greater appreciation of the sacrifice of this 3-day battle. We did Park Ranger tours to learn about the 1st shot and how the war started to stand in the footsteps of General Buford at Senitary Ridge in the cupola overseeing the battlefield. Later in the day we took a horse carriage ride through the battlefields, Picketts Charge and the peach orchard with a private guide to learn every ounce of the battlefield and the major players to learn about the 3 days of fighting that took place to how the civilians of Gettysburg were impacted. The three day battle claimed over 50,000 lives and we toured the town of Gettysburg to learn how the community had to deal with the aftermath of the masses who perished, the smell which went on for over 30 miles and limited resources such as clean water. It's amazing to see how history was so preserved but right across the street from battlefields where so many died stands fast food restaurants, and hotels. A little surreal. Would definitely recommend a ride out to Gettysburg and this campground, which is right next to the battlefields. Clean facilities. If you are into horses, this is the place for you! Though sites are not very private, everyone is very respectful, and you are not on top of each other. Quiet hours are observed, which is nice too. Store has a great variety of souviners, treats, and emergency camping items. You can't get any closer to history than here. Would definitely recommend if you are looking to visit Gettysburg.

    • B
      Sep. 1, 2022

      Michaux State Forest

      Motorized and Primitive Sites, but double check info.

      Some reviewers have confused nearby State Parks with the actual State Forest, resulting in inaccurate information. Despite their proximity, Caledonia and Pine Grove Furnace State Parks are NOT considered State Forest land, and have completely different amenities, availability, and regulations.

      Michaux State Forest sites fall in to 4 categories:

      1. Designated motorized sites, which require a free online permit and are open April 2 until the 3rd Sunday after Thanksgiving

      2. Designated motorized parking lot sites, which require the same free online permit but are open year-round

      3. Primitive backpacking sites, open year-round (no permit required, should be at least 1 mi from a trailhead, and only 1 night per site allowed)

      4. Primitive Cabins, which are on State Forest land but are managed by and booked through the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club.

      None of the sites available in Michaux have:

      -electric or water hookups. If you used/saw one, you were in a State Park, not Forest.

      -drinking water available at sites (some have a creek or springhouse, which must be treated first)

      -restrooms (a very small number of sites have outhouses within 1/4 mi or so, but don't count on it)

      All designated sites have some sort of fire ring, whether stones or metal.

      Some, but not all, designated sites have picnic tables.

      Cell service varies greatly. Some sites will have none without a decent drive or hike, while others have 4 bars.

      Fires are not permitted at all from March 1 to May 25, and are also banned when fire danger is deemed too high.

      Alcohol is permitted, except in picnic areas.

      Designated motorized parking lot sites also serve as equestrian sites, and horse camping is allowed here. Teaberry has a few hitching posts and a two step mounting block available.

      Pets are allowed as long as they are under control at all times and are not disturbing others. If your dog's recall is anything but perfect, they haven't earned the privilege. Use a leash or long line; remember that if your out-of-control dog gets into a fight with an aggressive but leashed dog, the fault is yours. It's not worth two sets of vet bills.

      This is my go-to local place for camping and hiking alike. Michaux sits on the northern terminus of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and though they are scarcely more than foothills here compared to their majesty in more well-known areas like TN, NC, and VA, it is a place of peace and beauty all the same. Like much of the state, it's a young mixed deciduous and coniferous forest, with some open and sparsely wooded prairie/meadow sections.

    • Avery M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 1, 2018

      Ferryboat Campsites

      Great little site with lots of seasonal residents.

      This is a wonderful little campsite primarily catering the seasonal RVer. With that said they do have primitive camping spots next to the putt putt course and water only tent sits at the upper feild. There are also water/electric sites in a loop behind the honeymooner cabins, and they have teh best shade and set up for hammock camping.

      The ferry here is real, and has been in operation for the last 100+ years

      There is a small goat petting zoo, with very friendly pigmy goats and the camp is extremely pet friendly as long as they are on a leash.

      There is the typical camp store, and in addition there is the icecream store next to the river. Across the street is a local winery with the best views of the river around.

      The campsite fills quickly on the weekends, kayakers and fishers, and motorboats use this as the weekend home and mini family vacation spots.

      The showers are located in the RV section of the campground, so you will have to walk a bit if you are tent camping.

      There are horse stable available as well on site.

    • R
      Oct. 31, 2020

      Artillery Ridge Campground

      Pretty much on the battlefield

      We stayed at this campground during the COVID pandemic so not much was open at the campground. But from the looks of it they have a small mini golf area, nice size basketball court and a good size building for activities. This campground has horse stalls and rings if you would like to bring your own horses. There were a few families that brought their horses and they were right across from our site. Kids loved being able to see them and get close and even pet them!

      This campground is minutes from town and is practically on the battlefield.

    • Z
      Jul. 5, 2021

      Artillery Ridge Campground

      Amazing 4th of July Weekend

      The staff are very friendly and helpful. The campground was very well maintained and clean. Bathhouse is updated and clean. The RV sites are gravel and pretty level. Fun filled weekend of activities for the whole family. Close to historic Gettysburg battleground. Fantastic horse rescue on the campground. You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback. Nice catch and release pond in campground. Will definitely be returning.

    • Dave G.
      Sep. 24, 2017

      Gettysburg Campground

      Quiet, Plentiful, Not Cheap

      This was our third stay here on our somewhat annual family meetup in Gettysburg. I always appreciate the near solitude experience of this campground as 90% of the sites are RV sites, that are kept away from the tenting area. The tenting area is calm and has a creek right next to it to listen to in the evening and morning. One of the drawbacks of this campground is that a lot of the trees are black walnut trees and the squirrels do not shy away from dropping the walnuts like bombs on your head, car, or table when you're preparing breakfast.

      Gear Review: I won a pair of Treadagain sandals for one of my last campground reviews and this was the first camping trip that I took with them. When I initially bought them, they gave me an abrasion cut and I contemplated sending them back, but after wearing them more, they became more comfortable and I have found them to be ideal for walking around in all day since they have thick bottoms.

    • Casey L.
      Aug. 17, 2021

      Colonel Denning State Park Campground

      Favorite Park of the Season

      Amazing!!! Cleanest facilities of the year so far, amazing large flat sites, dog friendly and great stream right behind the sites. If you stay in lower sites you are near the water and will have to walk up a large hill to get to bathrooms. Trail head close to site and was a very difficult hike with amazing views!! Wide open area to swim that was very clean and well kept. Hope to revisit soon!

    • Jim G.The Dyrt PRO User
      Nov. 9, 2020

      Gettysburg Campground

      Very close to Gettysburg

      If you’re looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn’t it. If you are looking for a campground that is very close to an historical National Park not to mention shopping and restaurants, this is for you. 

      The amenities of Gettysburg Campground are quite good: full hookups with cable, all working as expected. Level sites, friendly and efficient staff, decently sized sites long enough for my 32’ coach and a toad. The two drawbacks are that the sites are quite packed together and the noise of traffic– at least in the frontmost sites– can get rather loud at night. However, the proximity to Gettysburg National Park can’t be beat.


    Guide to Newville

    Michaux State Forest provides a range of camping opportunities throughout its 85,500 acres spanning Cumberland, Franklin, and Adams counties. The forest contains extensive trail networks with varied terrain, mostly between 1,000-2,000 feet elevation. Camping options near Newville include primitive sites, designated parking lot areas, and motorized sites that offer different levels of accessibility depending on vehicle type and camping equipment.

    What to do

    Hiking trails: Explore the extensive trail system in Colonel Denning State Park Campground, which connects to wilderness areas. "Trail head close to site and was a very difficult hike with amazing views!! Wide open area to swim that was very clean and well kept," writes Casey L.

    Historical exploration: The Gettysburg area provides opportunities to immerse in Civil War history just a short drive away. "We camped at Artillery Ridge Campground, which served as an artillery storage/staging area for the Union during the battle. Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded," notes MJ B.

    Water activities: Some campgrounds offer swimming and fishing opportunities in natural settings. "The lake is awesome to relax on, fishing, boating, swimming in the pool, tons of hiking trails, lots of history, never fails to be a great time!!" shares Lisa L. about Little Buffalo State Park Campground.

    What campers like

    Secluded tent sites: Campers appreciate the walk-in sites that provide more privacy. "We stayed in site 28 which was a walk-in site, this was perfect for us since we wanted to be further away from people and the light from the bathroom/shower facility. The site was not far from our parking spot, maybe a hundred yards but there was a slight hill," explains Tiff T.

    Winter accessibility: For equestrian camping opportunities near Newville, some sites remain open year-round. "Every January for the last few years some friends and I have gone and camped along the Appalachian Trail. You can park at Pine Grove State Park and then hike your way into locations or park at other trail heads," reports John S. about Michaux State Forest.

    Riverside camping: Sites along waterways provide natural sound barriers and recreational opportunities. "We enjoyed our stay here — but mostly because we liked being right on the water. The weather was hot so lots of tubing and fishing and kayaking in the river — we loved to sit out and watch the water go by," shares Melissa about Ferryboat Campsites.

    What you should know

    Permit requirements: Free permits must be obtained for many forest camping areas. "Camping is free in several areas throughout Michaux State Forest (as well as other PA State Forests), BUT you usually need to have a camping permit (also free) and you can only stay in designated campsites," explains Jen S.

    Site size limitations: Some campgrounds have constraints for larger equipment. "We have a small 19" travel trailer which was almost impossible to park due to very tight sites. Sites are almost on top of each other - we had a group of people with tents next to us that were basically on top of us," warns Shirley M.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Newville, PA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Newville, PA is Colonel Denning State Park Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 9 reviews.

    What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Newville, PA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 14 equestrian camping locations near Newville, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.