Equestrian campers near Aston, Pennsylvania can find accommodations within 15-25 miles of the city. The region features rolling hills with elevations between 200-400 feet and mild temperatures averaging 75°F in summer and 35°F in winter. Seasonal considerations include limited trail access during spring mud season and potential trail closures during hunting season from November through January.
What to do
Trail riding options: Brendan Byrne State Forest has extensive equestrian trails through the Pine Barrens. "There are probably hundreds of miles of trails through the woods and bogs to explore. Can't tell you how much I love it. Could spend a whole vacation just with these trails and never leave this state park," notes Benjamin K.
Water activities: French Creek State Park offers fishing and paddling on two lakes. "There are two lakes, Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake that you can fish at, kayak, canoe or just relax by. There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish," according to Jen R.
Hiking opportunities: Hibernia County Park features multiple shorter trails for walking when not riding. "Walking/hiking trails and the lake were super peaceful," reports Chelsea, who found the trails well-marked and suitable for various skill levels.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Lums Pond State Park Campground offers large camping areas with good separation. "The sites are large and well spaced. Many are in full sun," notes Adam and Suzanne B., which provides adequate room for horse trailers and camping equipment.
Privacy between campsites: Brendan Byrne State Forest provides good separation between neighbors. "Nice and quiet, sites are spaced out enough to offer privacy. Good trees for hammocking! Plenty of room for a few tents at each site," says Lindsay D.
Clean facilities: Many horse campgrounds near Aston maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. "The bathroom facilities and laundry are clean and modern. There are separate, individual shower rooms," Adam and Suzanne B. mentioned about Lums Pond State Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian campgrounds fill quickly during prime season. "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises Ellen B. about Lums Pond State Park, which applies to most horse camping areas within driving distance of Aston.
Facility limitations: Hibernia County Park has minimal amenities. "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank," cautions Jennifer S.
Pet policies: Rules vary significantly between campgrounds regarding horses and dogs. Some areas restrict dogs entirely while others require deposits. Brendan Byrne State Forest "Allows dogs after a deposit," according to Sean W., but other parks may have different policies.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: French Creek State Park offers multiple play areas for children. "Nice playground area and clean. There is a nice picnic area with grills and picnic tables right by the boat landing, where we picnicked and hung out for an afternoon," Jen R. reports.
Kid-friendly fishing: Hibernia County Park provides dedicated fishing for younger anglers. "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," notes Anna, making it an excellent option for families bringing both horses and children.
Safety considerations: Blackbird State Forest has widely spaced campsites for families needing room. "The camp sites are spaced out a good amount so each site has good privacy. Each site has a fire pit, a grill, and two tables with a decent amount of space for tents," Blind explains.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Equestrian campgrounds vary widely in electrical service. "Sites are full hook up with about 5 tent sites. All are pretty much level. Close to shopping if needed," Sandy E. notes about Lums Pond State Park Campground, making it a good option for RVers with horse trailers.
Pad quality: French Creek State Park provides stable surfaces for parking. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," according to Jen R., allowing easier positioning of larger rigs and trailers.
Site selection advice: When bringing horses and RVs, carefully research specific sites. "Though at first glance the sites don't look big enough to house an RV, there are a few sites that will, including #3, #17 & #18 and plenty of sites will fit a small RV or pop up camper," Jennifer S. advises about Hibernia County Park.
Traveler
