North Run Equine Camping Area provides designated spaces for horse enthusiasts within Pennsylvania's extensive state forest system. Located approximately 90 miles northwest of Newburg in Penfield, this specialized camping area connects directly to forest trail systems throughout Moshannon State Forest. Trail riders must bring all necessary water supplies for horses as no on-site water facilities exist. The primitive campground accommodates both camping equipment and horse trailers while maintaining standard forest camping regulations.
What to do
Explore extensive trail networks: Black Moshannon State Park Campground offers multiple trail systems for hikers and mountain bikers. "Nice campground with quiet 250 acre lake for kayaking. Good birding," notes Matthew U., highlighting activities beyond horseback riding.
Enjoy water recreation: The lakes in the region provide alternatives to trail riding. At Shawnee State Park Campground, visitors find diverse water options. "The lake and the trails around it are beautiful. Great swimming and kayaking/small boating," reports Casey S.
Wildlife observation: The forests surrounding North Run contain diverse wildlife habitats. Clay P. from Black Moshannon State Park Campground notes: "Great camping area stop a mountain...nice unique lake that is incredibly dark in color. Lilly pads abound with great flowers," indicating excellent opportunities for nature photography.
What campers like
Natural features: The state forests near Newburg offer distinctive ecological characteristics. "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," explains Travis S. about Black Moshannon, describing a geological feature riders encounter on trails.
Spacious campsites: Most equestrian-friendly campgrounds provide adequate room for trailers and gear. At Rothrock Roadside Campsites, Scott I. found: "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."
Privacy between sites: The camping areas maintain natural spacing between campers. Sandi G. mentions at Shawnee State Park: "The sites are situated nicely, your neighbors are not 'right there'. Our only trouble was our GPS brought us in the most difficult way."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most state forest campsites require advance booking. For North Block — Tuscarora State Forest, like North Run, reservations must be secured through the Pennsylvania DCNR reservation system.
Limited amenities: Primitive camping is standard at most horse-friendly sites. Gerard from Shawnee State Park notes: "The site we were assigned was easily accessed and had a nice view of the campground. However, as we drove through the rest of the RV park area we noted that many of the sites had very awkward back-in approaches."
Seasonal considerations: Forest roads may close during winter months. At Rothrock State Forest, Scott I. warns: "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
Educational opportunities: State parks offer programs suitable for children and adults. Lisa L. from Black Moshannon explains: "The park also runs a ton of classes for different things like fly fishing, hiking, etc," providing structured activities for family members not riding.
Safety precautions: Trail systems require proper supervision for younger riders. "Make a reservation way ahead of your date as this campground is very popular and sites book early," advises Denise D., highlighting the need for advance planning when bringing families to Snow Shoe Sites — Sproul State Forest or similar horse campgrounds near Newburg.
Pack sufficient supplies: No stores exist near most equestrian camping areas. Danielle S. recommends: "Camp wood at the entrance is $5 and is tiny; our biggest piece was a foot long, 4 inches wide and 2 inches thick! It was okay to start a fire, but we went into the woods and picked up dead wood."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV sites at horse campgrounds vary in size and access. Lee D. observes: "I heeded the advice of other reviewers warning that many sites were not level and did not reserve ahead of time. Most of the non-electric sites were decidedly not level but many of the FHU and electric sites were fairly level."
Access road challenges: Forest roads present navigation difficulties for larger rigs. Brittany V. cautions: "We have a 35' TT and there was no way it was going to fit in the site we originally booked. Luckily it was opening weekend and the rangers and super accommodating!"
Verify trailer accommodations: Confirm that equestrian sites can handle your specific trailer configuration. At Yellowsnake Camping Area, like most primitive horse campgrounds, there are no dedicated corrals, so trailer configurations need consideration for both camping and securing horses.
