Equestrian Camping near Rochester, PA

7 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.

Search destinations
    Add dates

    Beaver Creek State Park Campground includes an equestrian camp on Sprucevale Road with 59 primitive sites that accommodate horses. The sites do not have electrical hookups and provide basic tie-ups for horses rather than enclosed corrals. Twelve of these equestrian sites can be reserved in advance, while the remaining 47 operate on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground features vault toilets but no shower facilities. Trails throughout the park are suitable for horseback riding, with many campers noting the well-maintained paths and variety of terrain. Sites are spacious enough to accommodate both horse trailers and camping equipment, though the primitive nature means riders should bring all necessary supplies for themselves and their animals.

    Located approximately 1 hour from Pittsburgh, the equestrian camp connects directly to multiple trail systems suitable for riders of all experience levels. The park's trail network includes sections of the North Country National Scenic Trail, providing options for both short rides and longer excursions. Water access for horses is available at various points along Beaver Creek, though riders should check water levels as they can vary seasonally. The small, quiet campground environment creates a peaceful setting for horse camping trips. Equestrians should note that drinking water is limited as the park operates on a well system, and RVs are not permitted to fill onboard tanks. Riders praise the natural setting and wooded surroundings that offer both sun and shade options for horses throughout the day.

    Shenandoah National Park Camping Guide - The Complete Guide

    Get the guide now

    View Guide

    Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Rochester (7)

      1. Beaver Creek State Park Campground

      4.3(18)18mi from Rochester47 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "Portals/parks/PDFs/parks/Maps/Beaver_Creek/beavercreekcampmap.pdf)

      • 6 electric sites
      • 44 non-electric sites
      • Dump station
      • No showers; no flush toilets
      • Pets are permitted on all sites

      Equestrian"

      "I live near by to this state park and have spent much time exploring the entirety of it."

      from $23 - $50 / night

      Check Availability

      2. Group Camping and Cabins — Moraine State Park

      4.2(9)21mi from RochesterCabins

      "It is right next to the bike trail and has access to the lake. I have enjoyed my time at Moraine and will enjoy it every time I visit."

      "In fact my family used to own property near by. This park has an awesome trail system for walking or biking"

      3. Jefferson Lake State Park Campground

      4.0(7)32mi from Rochester44 sitesRVs, Tents

      "This smaller campground has a mix of equestrian sites and tent/RV sites. There are no showers, but the vault toilets were cleaned thoroughly ever morning."

      "Tucked away in southeastern Ohio is a gem of a park for camping, hiking and horse camping. Clean water, restrooms, playground, sand volleyball and basketball court."

      from $23 - $33 / night

      Check Availability

      4. Hidden Hollow Campground — Fernwood State Forest

      4.2(11)36mi from RochesterRVs, Tents

      "Very well kept, completely free 1st come campground just outside the very small town of Bloomingdale, OH. Pit toilets and no source of safe, clean water anymore."

      "The campground is situated near shooting ranges so the gunfire lasts late into the evening and begins early in the morning disrupting the serenity a bit. The best part - it's free!"

      5. Mosquito Lake State Park Campground

      4.2(26)49mi from Rochester224 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "The group next to us seemed a little rowdy when we first pulled in, but by 10:00 there was no noise anywhere near us. "

      "Wood is dry and cheap right outside the park entrance. Bass fishing is top notch on the lake. I would definitely come back here again and again."

      from $27 - $80 / night

      Check Availability

      6. Danner Primitive Campground

      5.0(2)47mi from RochesterTents

      "The shortest distance is about 2 miles from the trailhead at the Kennerdell bridge, but there are other trailheads throughout the tract also."

      7. Starr Farm

      5.0(1)49mi from Rochester3 sitesRVs, Tents

      "This campsite was close to an archery tournament for me. It is a huge campsite that is remote and peaceful. I will try to get this place again next year."

      from $50 / night

      Check Availability

    2026 Explorer Giveaway

    Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

    Enter to Win

    Drive Time


    Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Rochester, PA

    2 Photos of 7 Rochester Campgrounds


    Equestrian Camping Reviews near Rochester, PA

    74 Reviews of 7 Rochester Campgrounds


    • K
      Jun. 25, 2021

      Jefferson Lake State Park Campground

      Quiet and Beautiful

      This smaller campground has a mix of equestrian sites and tent/RV sites. There are no showers, but the vault toilets were cleaned thoroughly ever morning. You need to be careful when booking, especially if you are trying to pitch a tent, as some sites are quite sloped. Our site was huge and right next to the water spigot.

    • Theresa Tittle R.
      Sep. 7, 2020

      Jefferson Lake State Park Campground

      Quiet little campground

      Tucked away in southeastern Ohio is a gem of a park for camping, hiking and horse camping. Clean water, restrooms, playground, sand volleyball and basketball court. Dump station and 18 miles of multi use trails! Small lake for wading with the kiddos, fishing near the dam or skip rocks in the creek. But be sure to pack a picnic and relax and enjoy! Only a few electric sites available. Mostly flat shaded sites most perfect for tents or trailers.

    • Tracy H.
      Jul. 14, 2018

      Beaver Creek State Park Campground

      3 different campgrounds, primitive tent/RV, group camp and equestrian camp

      Family Campground on Leslie Road [map]

      • 6 electric sites
      • 44 non-electric sites
      • Dump station
      • No showers; no flush toilets
      • Pets are permitted on all sites

      Equestrian Camp on Sprucevale Road

      • 59 primitive sites (no electric)
      • Vault latrines
      • Tie-ups
      • 12 sites may be reserved; the remaining are first-come, first-served.

      Group Camp on Sprucevale Road

      • Two group camp sites
      • Can accommodate organized groups up to 30 people
      • Available by reservation
    • G
      Jul. 21, 2023

      Mosquito Lake State Park Campground

      Great State Park Campground

      We just got back from our first trip to Mosquito Lake State Park Campground. All in all, it was a great experience. 

      We stayed in site 67, which is a waterfront site, with electric. The water is about 25 yards from the pad, but is visible from the entire site. The site was spacious, but not as private as some of the others. There is some woods between this site and the sites on either side, but other sites are visible. The fire pits and picnic tables were staggered, so it created some distance to make it feel more private. 

      The campground as a whole, was very quiet. We stayed from Wednesday to Friday. The group next to us seemed a little rowdy when we first pulled in, but by 10:00 there was no noise anywhere near us. 

      Most sites seemed pretty level from side to side, but where we were, several had a slope from front to back. Away from the waterfront, most sites looked pretty level. The amount of space between sites varied from site to site. Some sites had woods on both sides, while others were pretty open. Some had nice large grassy areas, others were much smaller. Sites from 214-224 are in a cul de sac and are water front, but they were pretty close together with very little privacy between sites, if any. They are very close to the water though. 

      There are bathrooms and water scatter about, but from what I saw there was only 1 shower house. 

      Wal-mart and other shopping and restaurants were about 3 miles away. Park was easy to get to, only one turn for us off the highway. Lake was great for kayaking and paddleboarding. Very nice dog park in a different part of the park. There is a boat launch accessible from inside the campground. 

      Dump station has 2 lanes which was nice when checking out. Fresh water fill up was also located near the dump station.

    • Katie
      Sep. 29, 2020

      Beaver Creek State Park Campground

      Pretty State Park with Small Family Campground and Horseman Campground

      I live near by to this state park and have spent much time exploring the entirety of it.

      The trails are all nice, nothing too strenuous, and each have something unique compared to the others in the park. During the spring the Salamander trail is filled with thousands of Trilliums, a truly majestic experience. Lots of flowing water to enjoy throughout the park, some are off the trails but never hard to reach. A good park to enjoy with family and friends because you can fish, kayak, bike, skate, hike, horseback, and picnic. In addition, there are numerous historical cabins, locks, shelters, and a water run mill to sight-see. Then for those in search of a bit of spookiness, Gretchen’s Lock is notoriously a haunted location with certainly eerie vibes.

      The family campground is small, but the park as a whole is not far from civilization so if any supplies are needed it is not a far endeavor. 

      I do not horseback, so I cannot comment on that campground, but many of the trails are friendly for horses to travel.

      OH! And if you are there on the weekends the Wildlife Center is a must! The staff are so nice, it is by donation to visit so is in everyone’s price range. An astounding display of animals and nature information! You can even hold the snakes and see a bee hive in action.

    • Danielle S.
      Apr. 16, 2021

      Hidden Hollow Campground — Fernwood State Forest

      Can't beat free, but caveats abound.

      This tiny gem of a campground is actually quite decent. Each site is furnished with a small fire ring and picnic table. The fire rings do not have a grill grate. The pit toilets in the restroom are "fragrant" when you enter the women's side of the building but not so terribly that they can't be used. My friend did gag upon entering the men's room. There are designated wastewater areas to dump grey water, but you'll have to bring your own water for drinking, washing, etc. There are no electric hookups.

      As others have mentioned, there is a gun range nearby and you can hear occasional firing. Helicopter traffic at night was a slight distraction from the otherwise quiet night I spent here.

      There is an easy orange-blazed trail behind site 10 but as of this writing, a there are several downed trees blocking the trail a good distance in.

      I'd definitely stay again.

      5/3/2021 Edited to add:. Well, our second stay here is decidedly less positive. We are at site 9 this time. No fire ring here. The women's bathroom is filthy and it made me gag (there is feces all over one toilet seat and the other smells so bad that I just peed in the woods). It's turkey season so lots of noise in the woods.

    • M
      Aug. 8, 2019

      Group Camping and Cabins — Moraine State Park

      Beyond the Great Outdoors

      I have been camping at Moraine State Park since I was 5 years old (so about 14 years). While I was in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts we used the 5 Points Group Camping Area a lot. It is right next to the bike trail and has access to the lake. I have enjoyed my time at Moraine and will enjoy it every time I visit.

    • Casey L.
      Apr. 11, 2022

      Danner Primitive Campground

      Nice Primitive Campground

      I have not yet camped here but passed it on my hike the other day and knew I hadn’t seen it in the Dyrt yet, so I wanted to add it for others. 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. This is meant more to be a stop along a paddling or hiking trip than a destination camping trip - you must get a permit to stay more than one night. They are first come first serve. There are 8 sites spread out along the edge of the river, some being closer together than others. They are level and clear, each with a new picnic table and nice fire rings with adjustable grates. A few of the sites had stairs to the water for paddler access. The first 2 sites had wheelchair friendly picnic tables, so I'm not sure if you can arrange to be able to drive back for that situation or what other reason they would put them there. That's nice if the case, I'm just not sure as there is a gate locked at the trailhead that's only opened during hunting season. Plus there's no pavement or gravel down at the sites so I imagine it could be difficult to access. But something to investigate. There are vault toilets that were clean and well maintained, with hand sanitizer. There is a spring for water which says to boil before drinking. There is also a big display board with state forest info and maps. Another thing to note, while the travel in makes it feel very remote, there are cabins all along the opposite site of the river, including directly across from the campsites.  This could be a positive or negative depending on your thoughts, I personally would like it because it would make me feel a little safer. All in all, it’s a nice little campground, in better shape than some of the regular bigger campgrounds I’ve seen.

    • Jim  L.
      Jun. 26, 2020

      Group Camping and Cabins — Moraine State Park

      Great park but no rv sites

      This is a great place just of interstate 79. Been going there since I was a kid. In fact my family used to own property near by. This park has an awesome trail system for walking or biking


    Guide to Rochester

    Equestrian camping near Rochester, Pennsylvania offers opportunities for riders to explore forested areas and connect to multiple trail systems. The region features numerous primitive sites that accommodate horses and riding equipment within Ohio and Pennsylvania state parks. Fall temperatures in this area typically range from 45-65°F, making it ideal for extended trail rides without summer heat concerns.

    What to do

    Trail riding access: At Hidden Hollow Campground in Fernwood State Forest, campers can connect to nearby hiking trails. "There is an easy orange-blazed trail behind site 10 but as of this writing, there are several downed trees blocking the trail a good distance in," notes reviewer Danielle S.

    Fishing opportunities: Fish at nearby creeks when staying at Beaver Creek State Park Campground. "Bass fishing is really fun because we caught a few nice ones!!" shares Mike T., while another visitor mentions "people fishing along the way" on creek areas throughout the park.

    Primitive backpacking: For those seeking more remote camping experiences away from equestrian areas, Danner Primitive Campground provides hike-in sites. "This is a hike in or paddle in only campground. The shortest distance is about 2 miles from the trailhead at the Kennerdell bridge," explains Casey L.

    What campers like

    Spacious pine tree sites: Campers appreciate the natural setting at Beaver Creek State Park. "We camped this past weekend in site 50. It is an unbelievably spacious site under towering pine trees. The site sits back off the road and really makes you feel like you have the place to yourself," writes Matt H.

    Quiet camping atmosphere: Jefferson Lake State Park Campground offers a peaceful environment away from busier equestrian areas. Theresa Tittle R. describes it as a "Tucked away in southeastern Ohio is a gem of a park for camping, hiking and horse camping. Clean water, restrooms, playground, sand volleyball and basketball court."

    Night sky visibility: The lack of light pollution enhances stargazing experiences. Matt H. notes at Jefferson Lake: "The sky was dark enough to see far more stars than you'd see near any larger towns or cities. To cap it off, we laid in our tent dozing off to the sounds of owls and coyotes!"

    What you should know

    Limited water availability: Many campgrounds in the area have restrictions on water access. At Moraine State Park, a camper warns: "They are on a well so there is limited water and they don't allow you to fill up your on board tank. Make sure you fill up before you go!"

    Terrain considerations: Campsite leveling can be challenging in certain areas. At Jefferson Lake State Park Campground, one reviewer cautions: "You need to be careful when booking, especially if you are trying to pitch a tent, as some sites are quite sloped."

    Facility limitations: Most equestrian camps offer only basic amenities. At Hidden Hollow Campground, a camper notes: "The pit toilets in the restroom are 'fragrant' when you enter the women's side of the building but not so terribly that they can't be used." Other visitors mention similar experiences at various parks.

    Tips for camping with families

    Playground proximity: Select sites near play areas for convenience with young children. At Beaver Creek State Park, Matt H. recommends: "We got a site near the playground, which my 3 year old enjoyed. The campground wasn't busy and we had a lot of privacy."

    Historical attractions: Starr Farm provides a remote base camp for exploring regional historical sites. A visitor describes it as a "huge campsite that is remote and peaceful," making it suitable for families seeking quieter alternatives to busier equestrian camps.

    Creek exploration: Kids enjoy wading in shallow water areas at several parks. One camper at Jefferson Lake State Park mentions the "small lake for wading with the kiddos, fishing near the dam or skip rocks in the creek." These water features provide natural entertainment without swimming facilities.

    Tips from RVers

    Limited hookup information: Many equestrian-friendly campgrounds offer minimal RV amenities. At Jefferson Lake State Park Campground, Eddie notes: "Only 5 electric sites. Very clean pit toilets. Well maintained campground. A few equine sites. Only 2 electric eq sites. Electric is a little far behind pad. We almost needed extension cord."

    Water fill logistics: Plan for extra time when filling tanks. Eddie continues about Jefferson Lake: "All water full up towers only have those spigots that are not threaded. Had to hold hose over spigot about 20 min to fill 35 gal. We were later told by staff the maintenance building had a threaded spigot."

    Approach route considerations: Some roads within parks have restrictions. As Bounding Around warns about a campground: "There is a road in the park (Echo Dell Road) that RVs/Trailers can't go on so make sure you approach this campground from Leslie Road!"

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Rochester, PA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Rochester, PA is Beaver Creek State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 18 reviews.

    What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Rochester, PA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 7 equestrian camping locations near Rochester, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.