Equestrian camping options near Ravine, Pennsylvania extend beyond the limited facilities at established campgrounds. The region sits in Pennsylvania's Ridge and Valley section of the Appalachian Mountains, with terrain ranging from 400 to 1,600 feet in elevation. Campgrounds in this area typically operate from spring through fall, though some facilities remain open year-round with seasonal limitations on water availability.
What to do
Hiking trails: French Creek State Park offers extensive trail systems suitable for day hikes. "There are a ton of picnic tables too so you can take a lunch and just sit by the lake to relax and have a bite to eat. We have also attending an Orienteering event here which was nation wide and really exciting," notes Jen R. at French Creek State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple bodies of water exist within a short drive. At Little Buffalo State Park, anglers can find "several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish. Ice fishing is also allowed at both lakes and the ice thickness is monitored," according to Chelsea K. at Little Buffalo State Park Campground.
Water activities: Several parks feature lakes for non-motorized boating. "There is a lake where you can rent canoes and kayaks. A huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake," explains Jen R. about French Creek State Park. Swimming pools at certain parks provide a controlled environment for water recreation.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campsites often feature natural separation. "As long as you don't stay right across from the bath houses you will find ample shade at your site. There are so many trees and brush in between most sites you can't even really see your neighbors," reports Jen R. about French Creek State Park Campground.
Quiet atmosphere: Hibernia County Park provides a secluded camping experience. "It's tiny (19 sites in Fiddlers loop), it's quiet, it's heavily wooded. There is NOTHING to do except walk or bike the beautiful trails, spend time on Chamber's Lake (no swimming, or gas powered motors allowed), spend time in the hammock and stare at the fire," according to Jennifer S.
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives positive mentions. "Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers. Nice area to wash dishes. Very nice playground area and clean," notes Jen R. about French Creek State Park. Similarly, at Hibernia County Park, Anna reports that "porta potties are very clean and don't smell and are lit with a street lamp."
What you should know
Limited hookups: Many campgrounds offer minimal services. At Tuscarora State Park Campground, "the cabins and yurts have electricity and running water. They are great if you want the outdoor experience while getting the option of a bed," explains Tiffany K. However, "this park has no tent camping. They offer cabins and yurts, but have no sites for people to set up tents."
Accessibility challenges: Some horse-friendly campgrounds have terrain limitations. Starlite Camping Resort is "quite hilly throughout the campground, but the individual sites are very level to park the camper with almost no blocks needed," according to Craig F.
Reservation systems: Booking methods vary by location. At Hibernia County Park, "sites can be reserved on line, by phone, or by 'first come, first served' self-registration," reports Jennifer S., though she notes that during special events like the Old Fiddlers Picnic, advance reservations are required.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Starlite Camping Resort "offers a wide variety of amenities such as a community pool, general store, snack bar, playground area, toilets, indoor shower stalls, daily activities, pets permitted, water/electric utilities and laundry units," according to Brie A.
Child-friendly fishing: Hibernia County Park features dedicated fishing areas for younger visitors. "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," notes Anna, who adds that the park is "great for families. We are already planning our next trip. Super great price at $15/night as well."
Swimming options: French Creek State Park includes "a pool that is very nice! 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!" reports Amanda H., though she cautions that "you have to pay to get in the pool, yes even if you are camping!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: At Ferryboat Campsites, there are options for different RV sizes. "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," explains Avery M.
Leveling considerations: Terrain varies considerably across campgrounds. At Hibernia County Park, Jennifer S. notes, "The sites are mostly grass, and not very well defined which means the distance between you and your neighbor can vary depending on how you set up camp. As I said in the first paragraph, we mostly camp in a 28ft 5th wheel and 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. They aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix."
Water availability: Access to water differs between locations. For Hibernia County Park, Jennifer S. advises, "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. There is one spigot at the 'bathroom'."
