North Run Equine Camping Area serves as a central hub for horse enthusiasts seeking camping opportunities in central Pennsylvania's state forest system. Located within the ridge and valley terrain of Moshannon State Forest, this equestrian-focused campground offers primitive accommodations for riders at approximately 1,700 feet elevation. The camping area connects to an extensive trail network with varied terrain that accommodates riders of different experience levels, creating reliable access to backcountry riding throughout the warmer months.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: North Run Equine Camping Area offers direct access to bridle trails throughout Moshannon State Forest. The surrounding terrain includes moderate hills that provide varied riding experiences within central Pennsylvania's ridge and valley region.
Swimming and water recreation: Black Moshannon State Park Campground, located near the equestrian camping area, provides water-based activities during summer months. "The lake has lots to offer. Swimming, boating, fishing, wildlife watching and a big sky view for star gazing," notes Denise D.
Wildlife observation: The forests surrounding Pennsylvania Furnace contain diverse wildlife populations. Black Moshannon's unique ecosystem supports exceptional bird watching opportunities. "Nice campground with quiet 250 acre lake for kayaking. Good birding," reports Matthew U. about his experience at the park.
Hiking nearby trails: Colonel Denning State Park Campground offers challenging hiking options for those seeking elevated views. "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," shares Casey L.
What campers like
Natural water features: Streams and small lakes enhance many camping experiences near Pennsylvania Furnace. At Colonel Denning State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the integration of water with campsites. "Dog friendly sites near the water, the kids and pups play all day! We love how large site 15 is and that it is near the trail head," writes Casey L.
Well-maintained facilities: Black Moshannon State Park Campground receives consistent praise for cleanliness and maintenance. "The Park has tent only, electric and full hookup sites. It is well cared for and clean. The bathhouses are nice and well maintained," according to Graham S.
Secluded sites: For those seeking more privacy than North Run provides, Rothrock Roadside Campsites offers dispersed camping options. Scott I. describes one location: "The parking is just right off the road, and there's a picnic table and large stone fire ring near the parking. There's a small path further up the hill into the woods where there is a tent pad, another fire ring and another picnic table."
Night sky viewing: The relatively remote locations of campgrounds in this region create opportunities for stargazing. "The lake has lots to offer... and a big sky view for star gazing," mentions Denise D. about Black Moshannon State Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian camping near Pennsylvania Furnace requires advance booking through Pennsylvania's DCNR system. For popular weekends at Black Moshannon State Park Campground, "Make a reservation way ahead of your date as this campground is very popular and sites book early," advises Denise D.
Limited facilities: Many state forest campgrounds, including North Run Equine Area, provide only basic amenities. Rothrock Roadside Campsites feature primitive conditions, with Scott I. noting: "No hookups, water, bathrooms, etc; its fully primitive camping here. Cell coverage was fine on Xfinity Mobile (Verizon)."
Seasonal considerations: Water sources for horses can fluctuate seasonally throughout the region. At Black Moshannon, the water has distinct characteristics due to local geology. Travis S. explains: "The Iron Ore mines from the past have left the creek water stained red which is why its called the Red Mo with the locals."
Access challenges: Some camping areas near Pennsylvania Furnace have difficult access roads. Regarding Rothrock Roadside Campsites, Scott I. warns: "This site is accessed by driving up a bit of a winding dirt road up the mountain. It's easy enough during the summer, though the road is narrow and you've got some sharp bends depending on which way you come from. This road is not safe to access in the winter in my opinion."
Tips for camping with families
Choose camps with swimming options: During summer months, families benefit from campgrounds with designated swimming areas. Little Buffalo State Park Campground offers exceptional water facilities: "They offer a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones! There is also a splash pad! There are 2 slides for fun!" explains Amanda H.
Consider site location carefully: At some campgrounds, bathroom accessibility affects family camping experiences. Paula R. notes at Little Buffalo State Park: "Only downfall is we have smaller children and we could not bike from the campground to the pool, it was too far and the hill to get back was too big for them to ride up."
Look for educational programs: Ranger-led activities enhance family camping experiences. Nate & Erika L. share from Colonel Denning: "The park rangers had an owl program on Friday night and ended up calling in several screech owls. Very cool to hear their eerie cries in the woods."
Verify site dimensions: When camping with horse trailers and family equipment, space constraints can create challenges. Shirley M. cautions about Colonel Denning: "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."
Tips from RVers
Check site layouts carefully: RV campers near Pennsylvania Furnace should review site configurations before booking. At Colonel Denning, one camper noted: "We stayed in site 42, which was not the greatest layout (electric was on the wrong side of the site for our door and canopy to open to the fire ring)."
Consider road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds present challenges for larger vehicles. For Rothrock campsites, Scott advises: "The parking is just right off the road... the road is narrow and you've got some sharp bends depending on which way you come from."
Plan for limited hookups: Most equestrian campgrounds provide minimal services. At Black Moshannon, Graham S. notes the range of options: "The Park has tent only, electric and full hookup sites."
Navigate with caution: GPS directions to campgrounds sometimes lead through difficult routes. One visitor to Black Moshannon warns: "Our only trouble was our GPS brought us in the most difficult way. We suggest avoiding heading south from I80 on Casanova road."
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