Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area serves as a dedicated horse-friendly camping zone in Promised Land State Park. Located about 35 miles east of Pittston, Pennsylvania, the area sits at approximately 1,800 feet elevation in the Pocono Plateau region. The equestrian camping area features full hookup sites, bathroom facilities with showers, and direct access to bridle paths throughout the surrounding state forest lands.
What to do
Kayaking on nearby lakes: Lackawanna State Park offers rentals for water recreation on its 198-acre lake. "The lake is crystal clear and the beach is spotless. You absolutely have to bring a kayak/inflatable boat, but if you don't own one, don't worry, you can rent one," notes Debbie W. at Pickerel Point Campground.
Hiking accessible trails: Multiple state parks near Pittston maintain well-marked pathways suitable for various skill levels. At Lackawanna, Janet R. mentions, "There is an amazing network of hiking and horse riding trails. For those who like more rustic options, there are hike-in sites that are beautiful and not far from the parking area."
Fishing opportunities: Stock up on fishing gear before arriving to take advantage of stocked lakes. "The kids caught multiple sunnies and even a small perch," reports Shannon C. from Keen Lake Resort Campground. Perch, bass, and panfish are common catches throughout regional waterways.
What campers like
Shaded campsites: "We had site 100 and amazing views of the water from our camper. The trails were beautiful, recommend little falls trail," mentions Kelly F. about her experience at Pickerel Point Campground.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms across regional campgrounds. David S. at Lower Lake Campground notes, "Clean bathrooms are essential and even when the large campground is full the bathrooms have been clean."
Winter camping options: Some parks remain open year-round for cold-weather exploration. Mara S. observes at Pickerel Point: "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most horse-friendly campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak summer months. Plan 6-9 months ahead for weekend stays from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly across campgrounds. "The only negative is that I had almost no cell reception with Verizon," reports Mara S. about Promised Land State Park.
Alcohol restrictions: State parks prohibit alcohol consumption. Paula R. mentions, "Loved camping on Pickerel Point. Kids had a great time! Bathrooms could be cleaned more often but relatively clean."
Campsite selection factors: Choose sites based on access needs and privacy preferences. "The sites were a little close to each other, but we don't mind. We'd be somewhere else if isolation was what we wanted," explains David S. about his camping experience.
Tips for camping with families
Utilize educational programs: Lackawanna State Park offers structured activities for children. Janet R. highlights, "This is an amazing state park that has something for everyone. There is an environmental education center with programs, there is fishing and boating."
Look for recreation options: Keen Lake Resort Campground provides numerous family activities. "My family has been going there for years. My boys absolutely love it and always have something to do. They have activity coordinators that make sure there is something to do for all ages every hour of the day!" shares Mike H.
Consider seasonal timing: Weekday visits during shoulder seasons offer less crowded experiences. "We went in early spring midweek, it was very quiet and exactly the get away we wanted," reports David G. about his stay at Lackawanna State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Lackawanna State Park Campground offers electrical connections with specific limitations. "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained," warns David about potential electrical issues.
Site spacing considerations: Select campgrounds based on proximity preferences. "Stayed in the fairly new ledges loop that are all full hookup sites. Nice large sites, beautiful area, friendly rangers," recommends cheryl M. when describing Lackawanna State Park.
Off-season advantages: Consider spring or fall camping for equestrian access. "First trip of the season and we were amazed. Not crowded this time of year, serene, and perfect weather. We collected our own firewood as there is none for sale in the state park," notes Angie G. about her experience at Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area.
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