Horse campgrounds near Edgemont, Pennsylvania sit within the rolling hills of Chester County, where elevations range from 300 to 1,000 feet above sea level. The area experiences distinct seasons with warm summers averaging 85°F and moderate winters with occasional snow accumulation. Most equestrian trails remain accessible year-round with some seasonal closures after heavy rainfall when trail conditions become muddy.
What to do
Trail riding at Hibernia County Park: Located 13 miles from Edgemont, these wooded trails provide varied terrain suitable for beginner to intermediate riders. "Nice area to wash dishes. Very nice playground area and clean," notes Jen R. about the nearby French Creek State Park, which connects to Hibernia's trail system.
Fishing at Hopewell Lake: Both Hopewell and Scotts Run lakes contain "several warm water fish including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish," according to Ellen C. at French Creek State Park Campground. Ice fishing is permitted when conditions allow.
Explore historic sites: Visit nearby Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, located adjacent to equestrian camping areas. "This campground is perfect for a getaway if what you're looking for is no more than spending some time in nature," explains Mario M. about Mountainview Campground, which offers access to several historical attractions.
Horseback obstacle courses: Some equestrian trails feature natural and constructed obstacles for skill development. "There are trails for mountain biking or hiking, a frisbee golf course, playground at the campground and at the lake," mentions Jen R. about recreation options available beyond horseback riding.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: At Brendan Byrne State Forest, campers appreciate that "sites are spaced out enough to offer privacy. Good trees for hammocking! Plenty of room for a few tents at each site," according to Lindsay D. Many equestrian-friendly sites include extra space for horse trailers.
Clean facilities: The shower facilities at most parks receive positive reviews. "Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers. Nice area to wash dishes," noted Jen R. about facilities at French Creek State Park, which represents the standard in the region.
Seasonal flexibility: Year-round accessibility makes this area ideal for horse camping in multiple seasons. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great!" reported Galit P., demonstrating the extended camping season available to equestrians in the region.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities to observe local fauna. Christina H. shared that at Mountainview Campground, "we hear foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise!"
What you should know
Water access limitations: While most campgrounds provide water for horses, access points vary. At Lums Pond State Park Campground, "sites are large and well spaced. Many are in full sun. The bathroom facilities and laundry are clean and modern," according to Adam and Suzanne B., though campers should note water availability for horses.
Reservation requirements: Most horse-friendly campgrounds require advance booking. "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises Ellen B. about Lums Pond State Park Campground, with prime weekend dates often filling 2-3 months in advance.
Limited electrical hookups: Not all equestrian sites offer electrical connections. "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV," explains Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park, a consideration for those bringing horse trailers with living quarters.
Trail closures: Some trails close seasonally due to hunting or maintenance. "Ice fishing is also allowed at both lakes and the ice thickness is monitored," mentions Jen R., indicating that park staff actively manage access to recreational areas throughout the year.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds near horse areas: Many campgrounds feature child-friendly amenities close to equestrian sites. "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," shares Jen R.
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Children's fishing areas offer easier access and higher catch rates. "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," notes Anna about Hibernia County Park, making it ideal for younger anglers.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer ranger programs about local wildlife and ecosystems. "There is also a frisbee golf course in the woods to make it even more interesting and competitive. The trees definitely make it harder!" explains Jen R., highlighting alternative activities for children not riding horses.
Safety considerations: Family campsites typically offer better visibility and proximity to facilities. "The campground hosts were nice and helpful however I don't think they are responsible for cleaning the bathrooms," notes Jen R., suggesting families check with hosts about current conditions upon arrival.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many horse camping areas have uneven terrain. At Starlite Camping Resort, Craig F. notes "the individual sites are very level to park the camper with almost no blocks needed," though this varies significantly between campgrounds.
Horse trailer parking: Designated areas for trailers may be separate from camping spots. "We were able to book our sites online which was also a nice feature," shares Jen R., though online booking systems don't always indicate trailer parking locations.
Hookup limitations: Full hookups aren't universal at horse-friendly campgrounds. "We had two sites this trip with water and electric, but they do have quite a few full hook-up sites," explains Craig F. about Starlite Camping Resort, demonstrating the variation in available services.
Access challenges: Some horse camping areas have restricted road access. "If you're hauling a big camper you'll need power for the hills," warns Chris G. about Starlite Camping Resort, noting the steep terrain common to equestrian camping areas near Edgemont.
