Horse camping opportunities near Slatington, Pennsylvania center around the Appalachian foothills of eastern Pennsylvania. The region sits at elevations between 400-1200 feet, with well-maintained equestrian trails connecting through state parks and forest land. Bridle paths in this area remain accessible from April through November, with some trails closing during winter months due to snow and ice conditions.
What to do
Trail riding on dedicated horse trails: The equestrian area at Lower Lake Campground Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area provides direct access to miles of woodland trails. "We have camped here in tents and with our teardrop trailer. All of our experiences have been good. Clean bathrooms are essential and even when the large campground is full the bathrooms have been clean," notes David S.
Fishing in stocked lakes: French Creek State Park offers multiple fishing spots across two lakes with various fish species. "There are two lakes, Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake that you can fish, kayak, canoe or just relax by. There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish," explains Jen R. at French Creek State Park.
Horseback swimming areas: Several water access points along the equestrian routes allow horses to cool off during summer rides. When visiting Mountainview Campground in nearby New Jersey, Robert J. mentions, "Close to the River Towns and the Delaware River... It's a quiet wooded campground. Easy to get to, and friendly family ownership."
What campers like
Spacious equestrian sites: Horse campers appreciate the ample room for trailers and camping equipment. "The sites were super spacious and private. There was enough room for a full overlanding setup, three vehicles, a hammock, two dogs and a two person tent with plenty of room to spare," reports Paige H. from her stay at Tuscarora State Park.
Quiet camping environment: Most equestrian campgrounds maintain peaceful surroundings. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! If you're traveling through, there are many places to eat nearby. I'm a women in my thirties traveling alone and I felt very safe here," shares Galit P. about French Creek State Park.
Accessibility from major routes: Horse camping areas near Slatington connect easily to main highways. One visitor to Mountainview Campground noted, "We stayed at one of the primitive sites. Very clean and quite. Bath stalls and showers are basic but clean. Great spot for stargazing. Owners are very nice."
What you should know
Water availability varies: Some equestrian sites require bringing additional water for horses. At Pickerel Point Campground, a camper notes, "This state park Is only 20 minutes from home and we love spending time there. Almost every campsite is close to the water. Our site had kayak access and that was a real bonus."
Reservation requirements: Most horse camping areas require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "The honor system of payment at the office makes it really easy to come in late and leave early, make sure you have cash on you as it was unclear If checks were accepted," advises Galit P.
Trail conditions can be challenging: Some horse trails contain rocky sections requiring proper hoof protection. Paula R. recommends preparing for varied terrain: "Loved camping on Pickerel Point. Kids had a great time! Bathrooms could be cleaned more often but relatively clean."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple activities beyond riding: When horse camping with children, look for sites with additional recreation. "There is a huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake. There are trails for mountain biking or hiking, a frisbee golf course, playground at the campground and at the lake," reports Jen R. at French Creek State Park.
Private sites reduce noise concerns: Families appreciate spacing between campsites for quiet evenings. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, Jules T. notes, "Stayed here 2 nights in May, Friday-Sunday. There were a decent amount of people on Friday, but significantly more on Saturday. Our site was on the water and it was really nice."
Stocked camp stores: Some horse campgrounds provide supplies for forgotten items. "This campground is perfect for a getaway if what you're looking for is no more than spending some time in nature. The property is well kept and campsites are a good distance from each other," says Mario M. of Mountainview Campground.
Tips from RVers
Electric options for horse trailers: RV sites with living quarters often include 30/50 amp service. "We stayed in the Pickerel Point of the park. 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," reports Debbie W. about her stay at Pickerel Point Campground.
Level parking for horse trailers: Look for sites with level, reinforced parking areas for heavy rigs. Dawn R. shares about her experience at Lower Lake Campground: "This park is large and has many different campgrounds. We stayed in lower lake beechwood site 323. Was decent site only downside was fire pit area was very un-level for camping chairs, otherwise it's a nice wooded site with privacy."
Dump station locations: RV horse campers should note dump station placement relative to equestrian areas. "Nice location and it was very nice. They offer cabins and yurts, but have no sites for people to set up tents. The main attraction for this park is their lake," reports Tiffany K. about Tuscarora State Park.
Ranger
