The Pennsylvania Wilds region surrounding St. Marys offers several equestrian camping options across state forests and national forests. Located at 1,700 feet elevation in the Allegheny Plateau, the area features a temperate climate with distinct seasons and annual rainfall averaging 45 inches. The region's mix of hardwood forests and small streams creates suitable terrain for horse trails that connect directly to campgrounds.
What to do
Night sky viewing: Lyman Run State Park provides excellent stargazing opportunities near St. Marys. "Beautiful area all around. Up the road is cherry springs, known as our only Dark Sky Park in PA. The night sky is amazing," notes Katie S. The park's location about 45 minutes from St. Marys makes it a convenient basecamp for astronomy enthusiasts.
Trail exploration: Kelly Pines Campground connects to extensive trail networks ideal for day hikes. "Trails galore! Mushrooms everywhere! Quiet and no cellular to distract," mentions Debra D. The campground provides direct access to the Allegheny National Forest trail system with varied terrain suitable for different skill levels.
Water recreation: The lakes near equestrian campgrounds offer fishing and boating opportunities. At Lyman Run State Park, "There is a lake to do many activities, and a beach there... beautiful overlooks," according to Katie S. The park maintains a concession stand and boat rentals during summer months for visitors wanting to spend time on the water.
What campers like
Peaceful environment: Hearts Content Recreation Area provides quiet, secluded sites for those seeking solitude. "Simple and serene... The sites are nestled within a grove of immense pines," writes Bill G. Located about an hour from St. Marys, this campground offers a different experience from the equestrian-focused sites closer to town.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting around Black Moshannon State Park Campground supports diverse wildlife observation opportunities. "Great camping area stop a mountain...nice unique lake that is incredibly dark in color. Lilly pads abound with great flowers," notes Clay P. The bog ecosystem creates distinctive habitat conditions not found at the horse campgrounds near St. Marys.
Amenities balance: Campers appreciate the combination of natural setting with basic comforts. "The night sky is promising but light pollution from Warren inhibits a truly awesome night sky. There is a vault toilet. No showers. No water either," explains Bill G. about Hearts Content Recreation Area. This reflects the typical amenity level at many forest campgrounds in the region.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Most horse campgrounds near St. Marys, Pennsylvania have minimal or no cell service. At Lyman Run State Park Campground, "No cell service, so you really get to get away from everything," says Katie S. Plan accordingly by downloading maps and bringing essential information.
Water considerations: Water availability varies significantly between sites. "There is no potable water but there is a river and a non-potable pump," notes Debra D. about Kelly Pines Campground. Many equestrian sites require bringing drinking water for both people and horses.
Site spacing: Campsite proximity differs between locations. "Sites were a little too close together... We booked a tent site, and there was only one small patch of grass where we could set up our tent," reports Gina M. about Lyman Run State Park. By contrast, at Hearts Content: "Nice size sites that are not on top of each of. We could barely see our 'neighbors' through the trees," says Heather M.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Big Country Campground offers family-friendly activities beyond horse trails. "Lots of activities, tons of nearby attractions, fishing, hunting, and hiking," notes Michael L. The campground maintains dedicated recreational areas for children approximately 45 minutes southwest of St. Marys.
Educational opportunities: Look for ranger-led programs at state parks. "The park also runs a ton of classes for different things like fly fishing, hiking, etc," mentions Lisa L. about Black Moshannon State Park. These programs typically run weekends during summer months and provide structured learning for children.
Water play options: Several campgrounds feature accessible water recreation for families. "There's a beach with concessions stand and paddle boats on the lake with the prettiest skyline of surrounding the lake," Jennifer P. shares about Lyman Run State Park. The supervised swimming areas provide safer alternatives to creek access points at some equestrian sites.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When bringing horses and RVs together, carefully research site specifications. At Red House Area — Allegany State Park, "Tent and RV sites are nice, clean. The trees offer great shade and privacy between most sites," according to Nick O. Though further from St. Marys (about 75 minutes), this park provides well-developed RV facilities with equestrian access.
Water and power planning: Electric hookups vary between equestrian campgrounds. "Water is available as well as a dump station," notes James K. about Hearts Content Recreation Area, adding it's "great place to camp with everything from a class a to a tent." Most sites require bringing additional water supplies for horses even when RV hookups exist.
Traveler
