Equestrian camping near Reno, Pennsylvania sits between 1,200 and 1,800 feet in elevation within the rolling hills of the Allegheny Plateau. The region experiences seasonal temperature swings with snowy winters and warm, humid summers. Most campsites in this area operate from April through October when daytime temperatures range between 60-85°F, though select locations remain open year-round.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Kelly Pines Campground offers equestrian-specific camping with direct trail access. "This equestrian campground also has 2 non-equestrian sites, one which is reservable. There is no potable water but there is a river and a non-potable pump," notes camper Debra D.
Hiking exploration: Experienced hikers can access Danner Primitive Campground via a moderate trail. "This is a hike in or paddle in only campground. The shortest distance is about 2 miles from the trailhead at the Kennerdell bridge, but there are other trailheads throughout the tract also," reports Casey L.
Water activities: Several camping areas provide access to lakes and rivers for swimming and boating. At Two Mile Run County Park, visitors can enjoy multiple water activities. "Plenty of nice hiking trails. Great beach for kids," notes reviewer Joanie B., while Bobster L. adds, "lots of things to do like fishing, hiking trails, canoeing kayaking."
What campers like
Affordability: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the reasonable rates at local campgrounds. John S. mentions Two Mile Run County Park is "Affordable and private" while another visitor notes, "Shen staying at two mile you will find the sites are separated by trees and offer you your own little private area. The prices are good."
Privacy between sites: Hearts Content Recreation Area offers secluded camping spots. "Easy to find a site. Nice size sites that are not on top of each of. We could barely see our 'neighbors' through the trees. Well shaded spots," writes Heather M.
Quality facilities: Campers frequently mention the well-maintained amenities. At Hearts Content, Jennifer K. reports: "Very nice quiet small wooded campground. No hookups, about 3-4 fresh water spigots, 1 dump station and dumpster... Vault toilets. Fire rings and picnic table at each site."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most forest campgrounds have minimal connectivity. At Hearts Content Recreation Area, reviewers report, "One bar of usable Verizon 4G LTE and T-Mobile 4G LTE suitable for slow web browsing and e-mail, but little else."
Weather preparedness: The region experiences variable conditions even in summer. At Oil Creek Family Campground, one reviewer noted staying at nearby shelters: "It was early April, the snow had just fallen week before, and it got pretty cold during the night. Still, the hiking trails were in great condition!"
Water availability: Not all sites provide potable water. At Kelly Pines, campers must plan accordingly as "There is no potable water but there is a river and a non-potable pump... The area is usually damp so don't count in being able to find much dry wood."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated play areas for children. At Two Mile Run County Park, Joanie B. mentions, "Great beach for kids," while Hearts Content Recreation Area features "a clean and well-maintained playground" in its central grassy area.
Educational opportunities: Moraine State Park offers interactive nature programs during summer months. Though camping options are limited, families can utilize the group camping areas. "Moraine State Park is beautiful. It offers many camping styles including Group Tenting, Adirondack shelters for backpacking, and Cabins," writes Mitchel R.
Kid-friendly trails: When camping with children, choose locations with shorter, accessible hiking routes. Reviewer Ian B. found Hearts Content Recreation Area "Good for young kids and new campers" when visiting with "three oldest boys 8, 6 and 5."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should research site dimensions before booking. At Two Mile Run County Park, Joanie B. observed, "Every site has plenty of room. Campground overall is quiet. And most if not all of the full hookups are pull throughs."
Hookup availability: Most forest service campgrounds lack electric and water hookups. At Hearts Content, Jennifer K. notes: "No hookups, about 3-4 fresh water spigots, 1 dump station and dumpster. Water pressure was very low and took a while to fill tank."
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. For horse camping, Kelly Pines Campground accommodates trailers but has specific site requirements. "Traditional camp sites have space for multiple tents and 2 cars. Each has a picnic table and a fire pit with moveable cooking surface."
Traveler
