The Susquehanna River Valley around Silver Spring, Pennsylvania offers diverse terrain for equestrian camping, with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,200 feet above sea level. The region typically experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F, making May through October the prime camping months. Most campgrounds connecting to horse trails require advance reservations during peak season.
What to do
Hiking and nature trails: French Creek State Park Campground has extensive trail systems suitable for all experience levels. "There are many trails for walking, hiking or biking as well as trails for horseback riding," notes Jen R., who visited with her family. "The trails are awesome and the swimming pool is great for the kids in the summer!"
Fishing opportunities: Multiple stocked lakes provide year-round fishing access. At Ferryboat Campsites, campers can fish directly from riverside sites. As one visitor mentioned, "The campsite fills quickly on the weekends, kayakers and fishers, and motorboats use this as the weekend home and mini family vacation spots."
Historical exploration: Gettysburg National Military Park offers educational programs alongside horseback riding trails. "Close to historic Gettysburg battleground. Fantastic horse rescue on the campground. You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback," reports Zack, who stayed at Artillery Ridge Campground.
Goat petting zoo: Unique animal encounters add to the camping experience at certain locations. "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," mentions a reviewer about Ferryboat Campsites.
What campers like
Level sites: Campers consistently praise the terrain preparation at many campgrounds. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," reports Jen R. about French Creek State Park Campground. Another visitor noted, "The sites are large, with trees between, providing additional privacy."
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower cleanliness ranks high on camper satisfaction. "Bathhouse is updated and clean," notes one Artillery Ridge visitor. Similarly, at Starlite Camping Resort, a camper appreciated that "the facilities are spotless and the campground is maintained to the highest standards."
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds schedule regular events throughout the camping season. "There are regular activities for all ages including bingo, crafts and live music," shares Elizabeth L. about Starlite Camping Resort. These planned activities keep families entertained during longer stays.
Proximity to attractions: The strategic location between major tourist destinations adds value. "Located between Hershey and all of the PA Dutch Lancaster County attractions," mentions Timothy T. about Starlite Camping Resort, highlighting how equestrian camping near Silver Spring provides excellent access to Pennsylvania's cultural sites.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds have varied terrain with both advantages and limitations. "Many of the sites were very rocky and left little option for a larger than normal sized tent so keep this in mind if you have a large family sized tent," advises Ellen C. about Hibernia County Park.
Reservation requirements: Peak season demands early planning. "We have stayed at French Creek in the past however, we have never stayed in Loop C before. This is the only loop that allows pets," shares a ranger reviewer, highlighting the importance of understanding specific loop restrictions.
Campground terrain: Some campgrounds feature significant elevation changes. "If you're hauling a big camper you'll need power for the hills," warns Chris G. about Starlite Camping Resort, noting the challenging approach roads at certain facilities.
Limited hookups: Not all campgrounds offer full services. "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank," advises Jennifer S. about the Fiddler's Loop at Hibernia County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families with young children, playgrounds provide essential activity spaces. "Nice playground situated conveniently between the loops of the campground. It had some slides, a bridge, lots of monkey bars, ladders to climb on and the best feature was the zip line," shares a visitor about Little Buffalo State Park Campground.
Pool facilities: Swimming options vary significantly between campgrounds. "A huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake. There is a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones! There is also a splash pad!" reports Amanda H. about Little Buffalo State Park, though noting that "you have to pay to get in the pool, yes even if you are camping!"
Family-friendly loops: Certain camping loops are better suited for families with 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," mentions Kelly J. about Gettysburg Campground.
Distance considerations: Be prepared for some walking between amenities. "Nice for a smaller campground. 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," shares Paula R. about Little Buffalo State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV campers should prepare for varied terrain. "The sites were very level and I needed minimal blocks, if any," notes an experienced RVer. Another mentions, "The campground is laid out well. There are three separate loops to camp at."
Water access points: Water availability differs between campgrounds. "We had electric however no water or sewer hookup. There was a spigot for water at the next site over from us, so we didn't have to walk far to get fresh water," shares Ranger Jen about French Creek State Park.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal. "There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee, otherwise, you'll have to look for a truck stop on the way home," advises Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park.
Site spacing concerns: Privacy levels vary significantly. "We were surprised at the size of the XL when they arrived in the mail. I was originally thinking how am I going to use this gigantic thing but the more I used it the happier I was with the size," shares one camper about their experience trying to fit equipment at their site.
