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Equestrian Camping near Shippensburg, PA

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    Michaux State Forest offers primitive camping options for equestrians with several designated motorized parking lot sites that serve as equestrian campsites. Teaberry Parking Area specifically includes hitching posts and a two-step mounting block for horses. The forest has a mix of tent, RV, and cabin accommodations, though sites lack electric and water hookups. Campers must obtain a free online permit for designated motorized sites, which are open seasonally from April 2 until the third Sunday after Thanksgiving. Parking lot sites remain available year-round. Fire rings are provided at all designated sites, and some include picnic tables. The forest maintains a strict policy requiring horses to be controlled at all times to prevent disturbances to other campers.

    The trail system within Michaux State Forest connects riders to numerous routes through the northern terminus of the Blue Ridge Mountains. While less majestic than their southern counterparts in Tennessee, North Carolina, and Virginia, these foothills offer peaceful riding through young mixed deciduous and coniferous forest, with some open prairie and meadow sections. Water sources include creeks and springhouses, though all water requires treatment before use. Cell service varies significantly throughout the forest, with some sites having no reception while others maintain full coverage. Fire restrictions apply from March 1 to May 25 annually, and additional bans may be implemented when fire danger is deemed too high. The campground maintains a reasonable noise level with most sites offering natural privacy between camping areas.

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    Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Shippensburg (13)

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      1. Michaux State Forest

      4.0(6)7mi from ShippensburgRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "Some reviewers have confused nearby State Parks with the actual State Forest, resulting in inaccurate information."

      "Every January for the last few years some friends and I have gone and camped along the Appalachian Trail."

      from $10 / night

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      2. Gettysburg Campground

      4.0(26)20mi from ShippensburgRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "I always appreciate the near solitude experience of this campground as 90% of the sites are RV sites, that are kept away from the tenting area."

      "If you’re looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn’t it."

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      3. Artillery Ridge Campground

      4.3(26)23mi from ShippensburgRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "This park is a perfect location if you want to explore Gettysburg National Historical Site as you can literally walk across the street and be in the park or venture½ mile up the road and you come to the"

      "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded."

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      4. Colonel Denning State Park Campground

      4.8(9)17mi from Shippensburg50 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Cleanest facilities of the year so far, amazing large flat sites, dog friendly and great stream right behind the sites."

      "We stayed in site 28 which was a walk-in site, this was perfect for us since we wanted to be further away from people and the light from the bathroom/shower facility."

      from $20 - $38 / night

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      5. Teaberry Parking Area Campsites — Michaux State Forest

      3.0(1)15mi from Shippensburg5 sitesRVs, Tents

      from $10 / night

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      6. Little Buffalo State Park Campground

      4.5(19)33mi from Shippensburg52 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "A playground is near bathhouse in the campground, along with several hiking trails. The dump station is easily accessible. Firewood is also available for purchase at the campground."

      "The driving path is gravel with a steep hill at the end so if you can help it I would avoid sites 32,34,36 as they are VERY difficult to back into with larger rigs."

      from $22 - $92 / night

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      7. Peggy's Hill Parking Area Campsites — Michaux State Forest

      Be the first to review16mi from Shippensburg2 sitesRVs, Tents

      from $10 / night

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      8. South Block — Tuscarora State Forest

      Be the first to review24mi from Shippensburg32 sitesRVs, Tents

      from $10 / night

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      9. Ferryboat Campsites

      4.0(6)45mi from ShippensburgRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "With that said they do have primitive camping spots next to the putt putt course and water only tent sits at the upper feild."

      "Lots to do very close to water and many things to do in and around camp ground. Stayed for a few days would go back."

      from $30 - $100 / night

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      10. Camp Winery

      5.0(1)46mi from Shippensburg1 siteRVs, Tents

      "Close to many cool things in the area too"

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    Equestrian Camping Reviews near Shippensburg, PA

    95 Reviews of 13 Shippensburg Campgrounds

    • Nancy W.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jul. 30, 2021

      Artillery Ridge Campground

      Great Location to Battlefield

      This park is a perfect location if you want to explore Gettysburg National Historical Site as you can literally walk across the street and be in the park or venture½ mile up the road and you come to the park’s main visitor center. The campground has a bunch of different sites whether you want to spend more money for a premium full hook-up or save a few bucks and just get water and electric. There are lots of tent sites, cabins, and horse stalls with a corral for those traveling with horses. The park is also very close to the historic downtown so you don’t have to drive too far for the attractions. 

      We were able to do contactless check-in by making the reservation and paying over the phone. When we arrived, they had a packet out on a picnic table for us with directions to our site and information about the park and the surrounding area. But, the best part of the check-in was that we got a free bundle of wood and the cutest little s’mores packet which had just enough fixings for the two of us. Such a great touch that we really appreciated. We had a gravel pull thru site which was easy to navigate in and out of with our tow car attached and was plenty long enough. The roads are gravel but were not dusty. The site and patio were gravel and a mix of grass. The campground was very clean and well-cared for. 

      Some of the sites are in the open without much shade but some other areas have some nice shade.  Most of the tent section is pretty open with a few trees scattered about.  Some of the sites (i.e., 82) is very close to the playground and the fishing pond which get quite a bit of action so be aware of the nearby amenities when you choose a site.  

      This park is well-suited for people traveling with horses. There are multiple pens and a fenced riding arena and ample RV sites and cabins in the near the horse stalls and there is a hose wash rack. 

      Some of the things we liked about this park:

      • There is a big section of the park dedicated to horses as the National Riding Stables are located on the grounds. You can get guided tours of the battlefield on their rescue horses.

      • A 24/7 firewood dispensing machine– which we had never seen before• Catch and release fishing pond• Free putt putt golf.

      • Heated swimming pool

      • Clean, well-kept campground• Lots of activities for kids with playgrounds, volleyball basketball, game room, camp store, movies, pool, etc.

      We paid $44/night for our full hook-up site (#45) which we didn’t think was too expensive or unreasonable. Luckily for us, nobody was next to us during our stay (in May) as the neighboring sites were pretty close and this campground probably feels very tight when it’s full. The close proximity to Gettysburg NHS was the biggest plus of this park for us.

    • MJ B.
      Jun. 19, 2024

      Artillery Ridge Campground

      Camping as close to history as you can get

      Spent a weekend at Gettysburg. We camped at Artillery Ridge Campground, which served as an artillery storage/staging area for the Union during the battle. Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts. So close to history. We have been to Gettysburg before, but going with the kids again being older, we all had a greater appreciation of the sacrifice of this 3-day battle. We did Park Ranger tours to learn about the 1st shot and how the war started to stand in the footsteps of General Buford at Senitary Ridge in the cupola overseeing the battlefield. Later in the day we took a horse carriage ride through the battlefields, Picketts Charge and the peach orchard with a private guide to learn every ounce of the battlefield and the major players to learn about the 3 days of fighting that took place to how the civilians of Gettysburg were impacted. The three day battle claimed over 50,000 lives and we toured the town of Gettysburg to learn how the community had to deal with the aftermath of the masses who perished, the smell which went on for over 30 miles and limited resources such as clean water. It's amazing to see how history was so preserved but right across the street from battlefields where so many died stands fast food restaurants, and hotels. A little surreal. Would definitely recommend a ride out to Gettysburg and this campground, which is right next to the battlefields. Clean facilities. If you are into horses, this is the place for you! Though sites are not very private, everyone is very respectful, and you are not on top of each other. Quiet hours are observed, which is nice too. Store has a great variety of souviners, treats, and emergency camping items. You can't get any closer to history than here. Would definitely recommend if you are looking to visit Gettysburg.

    • B
      Sep. 1, 2022

      Michaux State Forest

      Motorized and Primitive Sites, but double check info.

      Some reviewers have confused nearby State Parks with the actual State Forest, resulting in inaccurate information. Despite their proximity, Caledonia and Pine Grove Furnace State Parks are NOT considered State Forest land, and have completely different amenities, availability, and regulations.

      Michaux State Forest sites fall in to 4 categories:

      1. Designated motorized sites, which require a free online permit and are open April 2 until the 3rd Sunday after Thanksgiving

      2. Designated motorized parking lot sites, which require the same free online permit but are open year-round

      3. Primitive backpacking sites, open year-round (no permit required, should be at least 1 mi from a trailhead, and only 1 night per site allowed)

      4. Primitive Cabins, which are on State Forest land but are managed by and booked through the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club.

      None of the sites available in Michaux have:

      -electric or water hookups. If you used/saw one, you were in a State Park, not Forest.

      -drinking water available at sites (some have a creek or springhouse, which must be treated first)

      -restrooms (a very small number of sites have outhouses within 1/4 mi or so, but don't count on it)

      All designated sites have some sort of fire ring, whether stones or metal.

      Some, but not all, designated sites have picnic tables.

      Cell service varies greatly. Some sites will have none without a decent drive or hike, while others have 4 bars.

      Fires are not permitted at all from March 1 to May 25, and are also banned when fire danger is deemed too high.

      Alcohol is permitted, except in picnic areas.

      Designated motorized parking lot sites also serve as equestrian sites, and horse camping is allowed here. Teaberry has a few hitching posts and a two step mounting block available.

      Pets are allowed as long as they are under control at all times and are not disturbing others. If your dog's recall is anything but perfect, they haven't earned the privilege. Use a leash or long line; remember that if your out-of-control dog gets into a fight with an aggressive but leashed dog, the fault is yours. It's not worth two sets of vet bills.

      This is my go-to local place for camping and hiking alike. Michaux sits on the northern terminus of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and though they are scarcely more than foothills here compared to their majesty in more well-known areas like TN, NC, and VA, it is a place of peace and beauty all the same. Like much of the state, it's a young mixed deciduous and coniferous forest, with some open and sparsely wooded prairie/meadow sections.

    • Avery M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 1, 2018

      Ferryboat Campsites

      Great little site with lots of seasonal residents.

      This is a wonderful little campsite primarily catering the seasonal RVer. With that said they do have primitive camping spots next to the putt putt course and water only tent sits at the upper feild. There are also water/electric sites in a loop behind the honeymooner cabins, and they have teh best shade and set up for hammock camping.

      The ferry here is real, and has been in operation for the last 100+ years

      There is a small goat petting zoo, with very friendly pigmy goats and the camp is extremely pet friendly as long as they are on a leash.

      There is the typical camp store, and in addition there is the icecream store next to the river. Across the street is a local winery with the best views of the river around.

      The campsite fills quickly on the weekends, kayakers and fishers, and motorboats use this as the weekend home and mini family vacation spots.

      The showers are located in the RV section of the campground, so you will have to walk a bit if you are tent camping.

      There are horse stable available as well on site.

    • R
      Oct. 31, 2020

      Artillery Ridge Campground

      Pretty much on the battlefield

      We stayed at this campground during the COVID pandemic so not much was open at the campground. But from the looks of it they have a small mini golf area, nice size basketball court and a good size building for activities. This campground has horse stalls and rings if you would like to bring your own horses. There were a few families that brought their horses and they were right across from our site. Kids loved being able to see them and get close and even pet them!

      This campground is minutes from town and is practically on the battlefield.

    • Z
      Jul. 5, 2021

      Artillery Ridge Campground

      Amazing 4th of July Weekend

      The staff are very friendly and helpful. The campground was very well maintained and clean. Bathhouse is updated and clean. The RV sites are gravel and pretty level. Fun filled weekend of activities for the whole family. Close to historic Gettysburg battleground. Fantastic horse rescue on the campground. You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback. Nice catch and release pond in campground. Will definitely be returning.

    • Dave G.
      Sep. 24, 2017

      Gettysburg Campground

      Quiet, Plentiful, Not Cheap

      This was our third stay here on our somewhat annual family meetup in Gettysburg. I always appreciate the near solitude experience of this campground as 90% of the sites are RV sites, that are kept away from the tenting area. The tenting area is calm and has a creek right next to it to listen to in the evening and morning. One of the drawbacks of this campground is that a lot of the trees are black walnut trees and the squirrels do not shy away from dropping the walnuts like bombs on your head, car, or table when you're preparing breakfast.

      Gear Review: I won a pair of Treadagain sandals for one of my last campground reviews and this was the first camping trip that I took with them. When I initially bought them, they gave me an abrasion cut and I contemplated sending them back, but after wearing them more, they became more comfortable and I have found them to be ideal for walking around in all day since they have thick bottoms.

    • Casey L.
      Aug. 17, 2021

      Colonel Denning State Park Campground

      Favorite Park of the Season

      Amazing!!! Cleanest facilities of the year so far, amazing large flat sites, dog friendly and great stream right behind the sites. If you stay in lower sites you are near the water and will have to walk up a large hill to get to bathrooms. Trail head close to site and was a very difficult hike with amazing views!! Wide open area to swim that was very clean and well kept. Hope to revisit soon!

    • Jim G.The Dyrt PRO User
      Nov. 9, 2020

      Gettysburg Campground

      Very close to Gettysburg

      If you’re looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn’t it. If you are looking for a campground that is very close to an historical National Park not to mention shopping and restaurants, this is for you. 

      The amenities of Gettysburg Campground are quite good: full hookups with cable, all working as expected. Level sites, friendly and efficient staff, decently sized sites long enough for my 32’ coach and a toad. The two drawbacks are that the sites are quite packed together and the noise of traffic– at least in the frontmost sites– can get rather loud at night. However, the proximity to Gettysburg National Park can’t be beat.

    Guide to Shippensburg

    Michaux State Forest provides extensive equestrian camping options near Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. Located in the northern Blue Ridge Mountain foothills at elevations ranging from 750 to 2,100 feet, the area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F. The forest's designated equestrian sites accommodate both recreational riders and those seeking longer backcountry experiences.

    What to do

    Hike the Appalachian Trail: Access points near Michaux State Forest connect to this iconic trail with viewpoints like Sunset Rocks. "Every January for the last few years some friends and I have gone and camped along the Appalachian Trail. You can park at Pine Grove State Park and then hike your way into locations or park at other trail heads," notes John S.

    Fish at Colonel Denning: Colonel Denning State Park Campground offers creek fishing directly behind some campsites. "There were some great trails in the area. Our family of six made the trek up the Flat Rock Trail to the overlook. A six mile round trip with a 1200 ft climb. Spectacular views," writes Nate & Erika L.

    Explore Gettysburg Battlefields: Located near several campgrounds, the historic battlefield provides educational opportunities. "We camped at Artillery Ridge Campground, which served as an artillery storage/staging area for the Union during the battle. Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded," shares MJ B.

    What campers like

    Quiet, secluded settings: Many equestrian camping areas near Shippensburg provide peaceful surroundings. "The campground was very quiet in the loop (the creek sites tended to be a bit noisier) and the bathrooms were the absolute cleanest bathrooms we've seen in a state park," according to a review at Colonel Denning State Park.

    Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forested campgrounds support diverse wildlife. "The park rangers had an owl program on Friday night and ended up calling in several screech owls. Very cool to hear their eerie cries in the woods," writes Nate & Erika L.

    Access to water features: Creek-side sites are particularly popular. "We love the dog friendly sites near the water, the kids and pups play all day! We love how large site 15 is and that it is near the trail head," reports Casey L.

    What you should know

    Seasonal limitations: Camping restrictions vary throughout the year. At Teaberry Parking Area Campsites, seasonal pests can be an issue: "The first 3.5 days there were lantern flies actively trying to get into our rig, digging themselves behind the window screens, etc. and then day 4 they were gone."

    Trail difficulty varies: Some trails require substantial fitness levels. "Trail head close to site and was a very difficult hike with amazing views!! Wide open area to swim that was very clean and well kept," notes Casey L. about Colonel Denning.

    Site layouts can be challenging: Some campgrounds have awkward layouts. "We chose this campground based on the reviews from another Dyrt member and decided to give it a try. It did not disappoint. This is a smaller SP campground, just one loop and a few sites along a creek."

    Tips for camping with families

    Look for kid-friendly activities: Gettysburg Campground offers entertainment for children. "It is a wonderful place to have Kids. tons of things for them to do. we were in tent sites which felt bigger than most and were right by river. not far to go anywhere walking," writes Kelly J.

    Choose campsites near water features: Creek-side sites provide natural entertainment. "Amazing!!! Cleanest facilities of the year so far, amazing large flat sites, dog friendly and great stream right behind the sites," recommends Casey L.

    Consider campground amenities: Some locations offer additional recreation. "Very nice pull through site for out 21ft popup. Site was pretty level. Pool, mini golf and live music were great. Also amazing location to the battlefield and all the tourist attractions," notes Brett D.

    Tips from RVers

    Select horse-friendly sites carefully: Artillery Ridge Campground specifically accommodates equestrians. "We have a motorhome with no additional vehicle and two dogs, and this site couldn't have been more perfect for us. A dog park, walking distance to most everything we wanted to see. The national park is mostly dog friendly," shares Justine I.

    Prepare for limited hookups: Most horse campgrounds near Shippensburg provide basic amenities. "The only downfall is we have smaller children and we could not bike from the campground to the pool, it was too far and the hill to get back was too big for them to ride up. Pool was great once you got there. Bathrooms are clean," notes Paula R.

    Consider site placement: RV sites vary in quality. "We camped at Artillery Ridge Campground, which served as an artillery storage/staging area for the Union during the battle. Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts."

    Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Shippensburg, PA is Michaux State Forest with a 4-star rating from 6 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 13 equestrian camping locations near Shippensburg, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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