Equestrian Camping near Shippensburg, PA

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."