Best Equestrian Camping near Snow Shoe, PA
Looking for a place to camp near Snow Shoe with your horse? Equestrian camping is the best way to experience nature. You're sure to find the perfect site for your Pennsylvania horse camping excursion.
Best Equestrian Sites Near Snow Shoe, PA (3)
1. Black Moshannon State Park Campground
Port Matilda, Pennsylvania24 Reviews•92 Photos•114 SavesBlack Moshannon State Park covers 3,394 acres of forests and wetlands and conserves unique, natural environments. More than 43,000 acres of the Moshannon State Forest surround the park and help create a remote and wild setting that provides recreational opportunities in all seasons for camping near State College.
The 73 campsites each have a picnic table and a fire ring. Most sites can accommodate either a tent or a trailer. Many sites have electrical hookups. Some sites have full service hook up, which includes sewer, water, and electricity.Pets are permitted on designated sites.
The campground features:
-Washhouses with flush toilets
-Showers
-Coin-operated laundry machines
-Sanitary dump station
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
2. Moshannon State Forest
Weedville, Pennsylvania4 Reviews•7 Photos•108 SavesThere are numerous designated primitive campsites without developed facilities within Moshannon State Forest that can be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers are required to obtain a camping permit at no charge.
For information about campsite availability in Moshannon State Forest and to request a permit, please contact the district office at 814-765-0821.
Primitive backpack camping also is allowed throughout the entire forest. Backpack campers do not need a permit if they stay no more than one night at any campsite.
Primitive backpack campers should register at any trailhead near a state park office.
Roadside campsites are singular, remote sites located along dirt and gravel state forest roads. They may be pull offs or have a short driveway. These sites allow for overnight camping in or very near a vehicle. Depending on layout, the sites may accommodate different types of equipment such as tents, small RVs, or trailers. Some sites are also appropriate for equestrian use. Nineteen designated motorized, roadside campsites are available in Moshannon State Forest:
- Ten are individual sites located along Medix Grade Road.
- There are also several sites within the Shaggers Inn Camping Area.
- The Yellow Snake Camping Area is ideal for equestrian use.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
$10 / night
3. Lyman Run State Park Campground
Galeton, Pennsylvania23 Reviews•77 Photos•115 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
Recent Equestrian Reviews in Snow Shoe
51 Reviews of 3 Snow Shoe Campgrounds
- S
Steve
Guide
Black Moshannon State Park Campground
Beautiful spot
In the middle of the woods vibe. The sites had good privacy and it was just a pretty area. Neighbors were respectful and relatively quiet.. There was zero cell service at this campground. Bathrooms were clean.
Zack B.
Traveler
Moshannon State Forest
Generic positive title
Great tent site with lots of room. Have your own little driveway to park your car right next to the site. Comes with a picnic table and fire pit. Need lots of rope for setting up tarps as trees are far apart. Cute little stream in the back with a log crossing. No cell service, near town with free wifi. No toilets or garbage. Good amount of traffic coming down the road but isn't an issue at night time.
Joni P.GuideBlack Moshannon State Park Campground
Beautiful and well appointed park
Getting to the park had some sharp turns and windy roads. Small campground but nicely equipped. 2 bath houses were dated but clean. Nice playground at the campground and also one at the beach. Small camp concessions with a few camping items as well as ice cream cones. Great hiking and a beautiful lake for kayaking. Site 22 is a full hookup. Utilities worked nicely. However, our picnic table had seen better days. The site sat down off the road but once you were backed in the spot it was pretty level. This site also had a separate tent pad located down a few stone steps. Verizon and AT&T cell service were basically non existent. Every once in a while a text would come in or send but very spotty. Sorry I failed to get a pic of the site in the daylight. It was spacious and we had plenty of room for our 30' trailer, truck, and easy up over the table. 6+ chairs around the fire pit, cooking ring could have been better. Grassy area for cornhole or playing.
Lee D.
LegendBlack Moshannon State Park Campground
No cell, no problem!
General: 73-site campground; most have electric hookups, and some are FHU. Pets are only permitted at selected sites. There are also 20 (13 rustic and 6 modern) cabins. Cell service is extremely limited to non-existent (Verizon).
Site Quality: Pads are gravel and most appeared to be level. Site 70 was at the end of the loop which is why we picked it. A picnic table, fire ring, and lantern hook complete each site.
Bathhouse: As has been our experience in all PA state parks, the bathhouse was pristine, and the shower (for no additional cost) was clean with plentiful hot water and was very much appreciated.
Activities/Amenities: Coin-operated laundry. A playground is in the campground and there is an additional one at the swimming beach. The swimming beach is open from mid-May to mid-September, from 8 am– sunset. Electric motorboats are permitted on Moshannon Lake. Boat rentals are available in season. Permits are required. 24 miles of hiking trails, including two trails directly from the campground to the lake. In the summer, there is a camper store/concession stand. Hunting is allowed in season. There are 4.3 miles of mountain biking trails.
I used to think Oregon State Parks were the best, but Pennsylvania State Parks have them beat by a mile. We have yet to be disappointed by the amenities(especially the clean bathrooms) offered at the half-dozen state parks we have visited so far.
Liz C.
Scout
Lyman Run State Park Campground
Lyman Run State Park
The site and facilities were very well kept and clean. The night we arrived there was several other campers but cleared out for the weekend so we basically got the whole lower camp ground to ourselves which was great. Sites are well spaced so you don’t feel like it’s crowded. Would definitely visit again!
Fred L.GuideBlack Moshannon State Park Campground
Beautiful campground
This entire park is beautiful! There are plenty of well-maintained, well-marked trails for all experience levels. The lake is lovely with a very nice swimming beach (although I imagine that the water is cold even in the summer). The campground is wonderful! The sites are large and relatively private. The showers in the bath house are clean and nice. There wasn't much in the camp store when we were there, but it was the end of the season. Note: there is NO Internet or cell service there, but the locations where you can get cell service are posted. There is also no firewood available in the camp, but nearby locations where you can buy it are posted.
- kkallanTraveler
Moshannon State Forest
Peaceful Repose
My 3 year old cat and I had a wonderful time staying here. It was incredibly quiet, no cell service (we use total wireless which uses Verizon towers), and I couldn’t hear any of the neighboring campsites (I stayed at #7) even though they were all full. Highly recommend this spot.
It rained almost every day but only for a half hour or so and went back to being sunny. Bring bug spray and tick collars for your pets.
I would recommend bringing firewood with you, as there wasn’t much to collect that was already dead and dry enough for burning. Several of the local gas stations sell some if you want to bring some on the way.
Jess D.TravelerBlack Moshannon State Park Campground
Very cute Tent sites
I was lucky enough to stay when all the leaves were changing and the views were amazing. Love camping here, nice HOT showers! Also had some critters visit my tent at night.
Peyton B.TravelerLyman Run State Park Campground
Amazing lake and scenic views!
This has to be the best campground I’ve ever been to. From the beautiful lake to the stunning views of the vistas, you are always feeling at peace.
Dee S.ScoutBlack Moshannon State Park Campground
No phones, no firewood, endless supply of gas powered blowers
Let’s just start this review with our grading of the park it’s self. Five stars! Well maintained facilities, clean bath houses and gorgeous views at both the lake and multiple forest trails. Free Park map was very helpful in getting to trailheads and park office.
The park loses stars quickly for us, starting with the lack of cell or WiFi service. Though we did see a couple payphones at both the Ranger office and one of the bath house by the beach. We know that for many, camping means off the grid, but we like to be in touch with family or our business, at least for a phone call. The camp store and boat rentals were closed for the season and no firewood to be bought anywhere. Finally, our biggest complaint is the use of a commercial gas powered leaf blower, both hand held and an enormous one on the back of a large tractor, blowing leaves in the campground for the entire day, from early morning until 4pm. It was loud, constant and took away any chance of enjoying the serene environment of the park.
Had there been no blowers going, I think the beauty and serenity of this park would outweigh the lack of phone or WiFi. We’ll definitely come back but I think we’ll ask about the blower schedule and where to buy firewood before entering the park.
MsTrailBlazer 🏔.GuideBlack Moshannon State Park Campground
Lovely!
So Beautiful, so nice. Bathrooms were great. I’ll be back!
Joann&WellsThePup I.GuideMoshannon State Forest
Medix 3&4
Primitive sites with picnic tables and fire pits for a group. You need to contact the forestry district for availability and reservations but they are free. You will want to reserve them together or else you are going to get to know your neighbors really well. Room for multiple cars and lots of tents. Creek is right there and it’s only 5-10 minutes away from Benzenette which has a store, bars, restaurants, public restrooms and lots of places to view the PA elk herd. Bring some trash bags with you. Unfortunately the group before left a lot of trash to be picked up.
- Joann&WellsThePup I.Guide
Moshannon State Forest
Medix 5
This is a free site with no amenities but in a beautiful area. You need to contact the forestry district for availability and to reserve. Nice sit with fire pit, picnic table, and short walk to a beautiful creek so no need to bring water if you can filter it. Only 5-10 minutes away from Benezette and the PA elk herd. Town itself has a store and restaurants. Definitely will go again!
- LLesley J.Guide
Black Moshannon State Park Campground
Great site
Have shower, flush toilets, coin laundry and wash area for dishes. Sites are well kept, shaded.
- PPeggy S.Scout
Lyman Run State Park Campground
Great state park
What a great park. Was there in order to go to nearby Cherry Springs SP which is a certified Dark Sky area, to see the stars. Cherry Springs is about 8 miles away. We like staying at Lyman Run since Cherry Springs gets filled pretty quickly. Lyman Run campground is great. There are 2 campgrounds, one right by the lake(larger) and one a little further away (smaller). We prefer the smaller one. Bathrooms are newer with a nice, new system for “composting” I guess. No odor at all. And nice and clean. Nice hiking trails, beach area by lake, fishing and then the stars! One of my favs.
- MMegan S.Traveler
Lyman Run State Park Campground
Summer Weekend
Stayed for the weekend at site 25 at the lower campground. Site was next to the bathrooms but no problems noise. Nice and quiet overall. Bathrooms were very clean with nice hot water in the showers. There are pit toilets but they are well maintained and there was no smell even though it was hot out. Some good trail for hiking with a great scenic overlook on the Rock Run Trail. The concession stand by the beach only took cash while we were there, no cards. Cherry Springs right down the road. Recommend bringing chairs or a blanket to sit on if you drive over there for stargazing.
Amber W.GuideBlack Moshannon State Park Campground
Family fun!
Nice clean and quiet campground. The address online took us to the ranger station. Turn left BEFORE bridge. Couldn’t see sign from the road. The section we were in was “no pets allowed”. My kids loved the beach, swimming was not deep. Beach was big with adjacent playground. Lots of pavilions all over. The area was a little crowded for my liking.
Michelle L.GuideLyman Run State Park Campground
Peace for Mind, Body & Soul
We were at the Lower Campgrounds. It was perfect. It was so quiet and peaceful, did not even notice other campers around. (I can’t speak for the Daggett Run side though). Bathhouse was very clean. Had a good time fishing at the lake and stopping for ice cream at the beach shop is a must!
Eric W.TravelerLyman Run State Park Campground
Great family campsite
Was planning on camping at Cherry Springs but it was full for the weekend and decided to say here. Great location to camp with family and friends.very quiet campgrounds, clean bathrooms, and the beach at the reservoir makes for a great day of swimming or fishing. About a 10 or 15 minute drive to the observatory field. Highly recommend taking a night to head up there.
John S.
RangerBlack Moshannon State Park Campground
Allegheny front trail
The volunteers that maintain this loop trail do an excellent job. Views are gorgeous, you never fear for water and there are plenty of established camp sites with fire rings. My first "thru hike" and I will definitely go back for seconds.
- Clay P.Scout
Black Moshannon State Park Campground
What a great place...
Great camping area stop a mountain...nice unique lake that is incredibly dark in color. Lilly pads abound with great flowers
Christine J.GuideLyman Run State Park Campground
Nice
Nice alternative to Cherry Springs. Campgrounds are well maintained. Clean bathrooms with toilets, sinks and shower.
We camped at site #26. Maybe had to walk in about 50ft. to campsite. Has fire rings and picnic table.- DDavidGuide
Lyman Run State Park Campground
Solid campgrounds, super close to Cherry Springs, but lacks privacy & store
We stayed at Lyman Run because we needed electricity hookups, and Cherry Springs didn't offer it. Our trip was for astrophotography purposes, and Lyman Run is only a 10 minute drive away from the Cherry Springs viewing area. Totally worth it!
The good: Daggett Loop sites 16 and 17 are pretty solid. They're the last two in the loop and next to 17 is a river trail just to yourselves. It's nice. The bathrooms are modern and clean. Electricity hookups work great and I was able to pull a consistent 80% of max load(~32 amps) the entire time without issue. Sites are well kept. No cell service on site, but a 10 minute drive and you've got it (the best, imo)
The bad: The lake is a bit scummy/stagnant and was jammed pack with people (and since this review is written during COVID, no one was wearing masks or social distancing--disappointing). The sites are really close together with zero trees in-between sites. Bring your own privacy. PA has cross-county firewood ban, but the campsite doesn't have a firewood store. Had to drive 15 minutes off the campsite to find a random house selling firewood for $5 a bundle.
Bill G.GuideLyman Run State Park Campground
Dark Sky home
Lyman Run holds a special place for me. It’s nestled within the gold level dark sky area. This means on a clear night and with a waning or new moon, one could see the arm of the Milky Way with millions of stars- more than most people see in a lifetime. The camp sites are a bit rough- there are two loops, with one loop catering to the mostly RV crowds and the remaining one for tents. There are a few really good and shaded tent sites in the RV loop. The location of the park is near Cherry Springs SP, which gets all the attention for the night sky viewing. We were able to use Lyman Run as a way station as we visited Kinzua, the PA Grand Canyon, and other sites in the PA Woods area. There’s even a chance to watch elk nearby. Each site has a fire ring, with wood available nearby. Amenities include a beach at a nearby lake, warm showers, and good hiking trails. There is a general store nearby, but the nearest town is almost 45+ minutes away. But hey, there’s a Fox’s Pizza there, so ... win? Since Cherry Springs (at the time of this writing) does not take reservations, we opted for the sure thing. Tent pads are well taken care of and the bathrooms are clean. This park is worth the time and view- you will not be disappointed.
- Kaitlin B.Traveler
Lyman Run State Park Campground
Amazing stay
Stayed with my husband last fall for our first camping trip and have zero complaints. This place was perfect has everything you need. The surrounding area is loaded with things to do as well if you feel like venturing out. Cherry Springs Dark Park is just up the road but the view from our tent was just as good. We also stopped at the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon. Hiking trails were within walking distance from the tent. Looking forward to our next stay and some more camp food!
Ashley L.GuideLyman Run State Park Campground
Well kept
Sites are pretty level and well kept. The bathrooms are great! Remote, cute little place! They maintain the place well! There are a few trails close by. Nothing crazy but nice to have something close. Not far from cherry spring. We stayed at site 25. We were right next to the bathroom. Convenient, but did hear some traffic from other campers but not bad.
- LLois .Guide
Lyman Run State Park Campground
Remote and comfortable
Spent a week here and loved it. Very remote wooded area with small stream. Sites are tight but worth it, gorgeous area. Bathrooms are clean and large, staff keeps the grounds immaculate. Lake and beach nearby.
Guide to Snow Shoe
Horse camping in Pennsylvania offers a unique way to explore the great outdoors while enjoying the company of your equine friends. With a variety of campgrounds equipped for horse camping, you can find the perfect spot to saddle up and hit the trails.
Campers appreciate these amenities for horses
- At Black Moshannon State Park Campground, you'll find spacious sites that allow for easy maneuvering of horse trailers, along with access to nearby trails for riding.
Tips for equestrian camping near Snow Shoe, Pennsylvania
- Consider visiting Moshannon State Forest, where you can enjoy primitive sites that are perfect for setting up camp with your horse, along with plenty of room for multiple tents and vehicles.
Most campgrounds have horse-focused amenities like trails and water access
- Lyman Run State Park Campground features well-maintained trails and a beautiful lake, making it an ideal location for both you and your horse to enjoy nature together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Snow Shoe, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Snow Shoe, PA is Black Moshannon State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 24 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Snow Shoe, PA?
TheDyrt.com has all 3 equestrian camping locations near Snow Shoe, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.