Equestrian camping near Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania sits within the foothills of the Pocono Mountains at elevations ranging from 400-1,600 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures often dipping below freezing. Most camping areas remain open from April through October, with limited winter accessibility at select locations.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: While dedicated horse camping facilities are limited, riders can explore the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area's multi-use trails. Stokes State Forest offers additional riding options with "21 marked trails that cover over 63 miles within the boundaries of Stokes State Forest. Twelve miles are part of the Appalachian Trail." Riders can pick up trail maps at park offices or download them through the Avenza Maps app.
Water activities: The region's numerous lakes and streams provide fishing and paddling options. Spruce Run Recreation Area features "a lake surrounded by trails" where you can "fish, kayak or drop in a boat." One visitor noted, "Each yurt comes with a moor skip to keep kayaks, paddleboards or canoes at lake."
Stargazing: Clear mountain nights offer excellent visibility. At Camp Starry Night at Gulyan Farms, campers report exceptional night sky viewing: "The stars and moon were absolutely amazing. We got some great night shots and the moon is so bright it actually looks like the sun in the photos."
What campers like
Lake views: Waterfront sites are highly sought after. At Pickerel Point Campground, one camper noted, "We had site 100 and amazing views of the water from our camper." Another mentioned, "Mine overlooked the water and had a gorgeous sunset. There was a beach nearby that was an excellent place to gaze at the stars."
Private sites: Several campgrounds offer good separation between campsites. At Mountainview Campground, "The property is well kept and campsites are a good distance from each other. Plenty of open field as well as wooded areas." One reviewer described it as "perfect for primitive camping" with "very clean and quiet" facilities.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife populations. One camper at Mountainview Campground reported, "Only shortly after we settled into our tent did we hear foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise!" They added, "For some of us, this is what camping is all about."
What you should know
Limited horse-specific facilities: Most campgrounds don't provide dedicated equestrian amenities. Contact campgrounds directly about trailer parking and horse accommodations. Several campsites at Mountainview Campground feature "level, spacious areas" but may require advanced arrangements.
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area, a camper noted, "Not crowded this time of year, serene, and perfect weather." Off-season camping provides more privacy but may have limited services.
Fire regulations: Most campgrounds require purchased firewood to prevent spreading invasive species. A camper at Lower Lake Campground mentioned, "We collected our own firewood as there is none for sale in the state park. We thought that was going to be a problem but we were okay with it!"
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change rapidly. Pack for temperature variations even in summer. One camper at Ocquittunk noted the site was "quiet and clean" but recommended bringing extra layers as temperatures can drop significantly at night.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with recreational facilities. Keen Lake Resort Campground offers "a playground for kids" and "activity coordinators that make sure there is something to do for all ages every hour of the day!" One visitor mentioned, "My kids absolutely love it and always have something to do."
Swimming options: Lakes provide natural swimming areas. At Keen Lake, "You are able to camp in tents in the activity field or lakeside" and "we would paddle over to the swimming area on the lake." Several campgrounds also offer dedicated beaches with lifeguards during summer months.
Cabin alternatives: For families new to camping, cabins provide comfort with outdoor access. At Tuscarora State Park, "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."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many campgrounds have varying levels of RV accommodation. At Pickerel Point Campground, a visitor advised, "We had full hookups (20/30/50 amp, water & sewer). There's no cable but we were able to pickup about 6 channels with our digital antenna."
Seasonal considerations: Services may be limited in colder months. One RVer at Pickerel Point Campground shared, "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers." They noted the only drawback was "almost no cell reception with Verizon."
Space constraints: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. When visiting Stokes State Forest, "If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs."
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