Beaver Creek State Park offers equestrian camping options about an hour from Pittsburgh. The park's primitive equestrian campground has 59 sites on Sprucevale Road with tie-ups for horses but no electric hookups. Vault toilets serve the area instead of showers, and twelve sites can be reserved ahead of time. The North Country National Scenic Trail connects to the park, providing extensive trail riding opportunities.
What to do
Horseback riding on multi-use trails: At Jefferson Lake State Park Campground, riders have access to 18 miles of shared trails. "Tucked away in southeastern Ohio is a gem of a park for camping, hiking and horse camping... 18 miles of multi use trails!" writes Theresa R.
Tent camping under pine trees: The family campground area at Beaver Creek State Park Campground offers a different experience than the equestrian area. "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. The sky was dark enough to see far more stars than you'd see near any larger towns or cities," shares Matt H.
Stargazing at night: The remote location of many horse campgrounds near Glenshaw creates excellent night sky viewing conditions. "To cap it off, we laid in our tent dozing off to the sounds of owls and coyotes!" notes another camper at Beaver Creek State Park.
What campers like
Secluded, spacious sites: Sites at Hidden Hollow Campground provide good spacing and privacy. "Site 22 is at the end and away from others more than the other sites," reports Career E., helpful information when seeking solitude while horse camping near Pittsburgh.
Historical attractions: While the equestrian campground focuses on trail access, the main park offers additional points of interest. "The best part about the area was the history that surrounds it. There is a pioneer village near the park office that offers some picnicking areas around it. It also has original buildings from the pioneer days (church, school, etc)," explains Shay D.
Budget-friendly options: Free camping at Fernwood State Forest attracts riders watching costs. "Self-register with cards located at pit latrine building. 14 days every 30. No problem getting 40' skoolie in and parked in mostly level spots. Camp fire rings and picnic tables at most sites," notes Donald F.
What you should know
Limited water facilities: At Moraine State Park, water access can be challenging for campers. "I asked the lady at the park office if there was water nearby and she said yes, just hike down to the access road and over to the group tenting site to fillup. I'll tell you, this is not close - easily a 2-3 mile round trip," advises Matt R.
Road restrictions: Some equestrian campgrounds have access limitations. "There is a road in the park (Echo Dell Road) that RV's/Trailers can't go on so make sure you approach this campground from Leslie Road!" warns Bounding Around about Beaver Creek State Park.
Shooting range proximity: Some camping areas near equestrian trails have unexpected noise. "Gun range 5 mins away or so... you can hear gunshots all day until 11pm," notes Jaysha L. about Hidden Hollow Campground, important information for those with horses sensitive to loud noises.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites strategically at family campgrounds that complement the equestrian areas. "We chose this park because it was the closest one we could find that was still open with electric this time of year to downtown Pittsburgh. Also, because it had great cell/internet service on our hotspots and had a lot of trails," shares Bounding Around.
Fishing opportunities: Jefferson Lake State Park offers additional activities beyond horse 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!" recommends Theresa R.
Site selection for tents: Pay attention to terrain when booking. "The majority of the campsites are also so hilly that you can't put a tent up on a flat spot. We ended up sliding downhill all night because the space we rented was on a hill (and you can't tell in the photos they provide online)," cautions Alex S. about Jefferson Lake State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Fernwood State Forest offers free camping but with limitations. "We got lucky and landed a level site, but most of the sites are extremely unlevel," notes Jacqueline F., important for those hauling horse trailers with living quarters.
Electric access: Horse campers with electric needs should note limited availability. "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," explains Eddie about Jefferson Lake State Park.
Water fill considerations: "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," adds Eddie, providing practical information for horse owners needing to fill water tanks.
