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Equestrian Camping near South Mountain, PA

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    Michaux State Forest offers primitive equestrian camping options across multiple locations near South Mountain, Pennsylvania. The designated motorized parking lot sites at Teaberry and other areas serve as equestrian sites with some limited horse facilities. Teaberry specifically provides hitching posts and a two-step mounting block for riders. These sites require a free online permit and remain open year-round, unlike standard motorized sites which close during winter months. While facilities are minimal with no electric or water hookups at sites, each location provides fire rings and some include picnic tables. The forest landscape consists of mixed deciduous and coniferous trees with some open meadow sections that accommodate horse trailers. Camping sites remain well-maintained despite their primitive nature.

    Bridle trails throughout Michaux State Forest connect to the broader trail network within Pennsylvania's state forest system. Riders should note that water for horses must be sourced from natural creeks or springs and treated appropriately before use. The forest land allows overnight horse camping with proper permits, though the area lacks dedicated stalls or corrals beyond the basic hitching facilities. Every January, campers report successfully utilizing various access points including those at Pine Grove State Park to reach overnight locations. Horse owners must practice appropriate leave-no-trace principles when managing manure, as waste facilities are not provided at primitive sites. The northern terminus of the Blue Ridge Mountains provides varied terrain for trail riding experiences, with water crossings and forest routes accessible from designated camping areas. Alcohol is permitted at campsites except in designated picnic areas.

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    Best Equestrian Campgrounds near South Mountain (12)

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      1. Gettysburg Campground

      4.0(26)11mi from South MountainRVs, 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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      2. Artillery Ridge Campground

      4.3(26)14mi from South MountainRVs, 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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      3. Michaux State Forest

      4.0(6)10mi from South MountainRVs, 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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      4. Teaberry Parking Area Campsites — Michaux State Forest

      3.0(1)3mi from South Mountain5 sitesRVs, Tents

      from $10 / night

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

      Be the first to review2mi from South Mountain2 sitesRVs, Tents

      from $10 / night

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      6. Colonel Denning State Park Campground

      4.8(9)30mi from South Mountain50 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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      7. Little Buffalo State Park Campground

      4.5(19)45mi from South Mountain52 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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      8. Camp Winery

      5.0(1)32mi from South Mountain1 siteRVs, Tents

      "Close to many cool things in the area too"

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      9. Vagabond Isle

      Be the first to review32mi from South Mountain1 siteTents

      from $100 - $150 / night

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      10. South Block — Tuscarora State Forest

      Be the first to review38mi from South Mountain32 sitesRVs, Tents

      from $10 / night

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    Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near South Mountain, PA

    5 Photos of 12 South Mountain Campgrounds

    Equestrian Camping Reviews near South Mountain, PA

    91 Reviews of 12 South Mountain 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.

    • 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.

    • L
      Aug. 3, 2019

      Gettysburg Campground

      Close to history and so much to do, family oriented

      Campground has so many activities for active families. Pool,  swing sets, hosted events and theme nights and weekends. Sites are large enough for 2 tents, many Rv and seasonal rentals one main bath house and very clean potable potties scattered throughout the area. Small creek runs at the end of the grounds.. Very close to so much history, close to downtown Gettysburg with sight seeing tours offered for the battlefields, shopping and dining close by.

    Guide to South Mountain

    Michaux State Forest and surrounding areas provide several equestrian camping options near South Mountain, Pennsylvania. The area sits at elevations ranging from 700 to 2,100 feet with mixed deciduous and coniferous forests typical of Pennsylvania's Ridge and Valley region. Winter camping remains available at certain locations when standard motorized sites close for the season, with temperatures often dropping below freezing from December through February.

    What to do

    Trail riding exploration: The Teaberry Parking Area Campsites in Michaux State Forest serves as an excellent base for horse riding excursions with specific equestrian facilities. "Relates to Teaberry Site Only... It was a very large gravel lot with 5 sites along one side, pretty well spaced. The campsites were pretty," notes j A. after their stay.

    Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer water access for fishing within short distances of horse camping areas. At Colonel Denning State Park Campground, campers report "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," according to Casey L.

    Historical exploration: The South Mountain region contains significant historical sites accessible from horse campgrounds. While staying at Artillery Ridge Campground, one visitor shared: "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."

    What campers like

    Well-maintained facilities: Despite their primitive nature, horse camping areas receive regular maintenance. At Michaux State Forest, Jen S. confirmed "Michaux State Forest campgrounds have vault toilets and the sites are well-maintained. I went in late fall and was the only camper at the area I stayed in."

    Peaceful atmosphere: The less-developed nature of equestrian sites often means fewer crowds and quieter conditions. "We love it at Colonel Denning! Very quiet and small campground. We love the dog friendly sites near the water," reports Casey L.

    Winter accessibility: Unlike standard motorized sites, some horse camping areas remain open year-round. "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," John S. explains about Michaux State Forest.

    What you should know

    Permit requirements: Free online permits are required for designated sites in state forests. According to Bridget D., "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."

    Limited amenities: Horse campgrounds near South Mountain provide basic facilities only. At Gettysburg Campground, Jim G. notes, "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."

    Water sources: Natural water sources require treatment before use. "Water is easily found and views like Sunset Rocks are simply gorgeous," reports John S., though campers should bring filtration equipment as developed water facilities are not available at most equestrian sites.

    Tips for camping with families

    Playground access: Some horse campgrounds include family-friendly amenities. At Little Buffalo State Park Campground, Paula R. advises, "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."

    Educational opportunities: The region offers numerous historical learning experiences for children. As Brandon W. shares about Gettysburg Campground, "Not to mention it's a few minute drive to historic Gettysburg. It's nice and out of the way of the busy parts of town."

    Swimming options: Some parks offer swimming facilities during summer months. According to Christopher E., "The pool here is top notch and it's good for fishing but the hiking isn't super great. We did have a nice bat spotting walk with a Ranger when we were there."

    Tips from RVers

    Site limitations: RV access at horse campgrounds near South Mountain can be challenging due to limited development. Carolyn K. reports about Michaux State Forest, "Appalachian mountain range, not bad with 4wheel drive. Stayed first at camp, moved to atv parking. Very remote and atvs in and out."

    Alternative options: For more amenities while still accessing horse trails, consider nearby private campgrounds. At Camp Winery, Sammii D. found, "Very beautiful spot, did some tent camping. Close to many cool things in the area too."

    Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires additional preparation for RV users. "Despite their proximity, Caledonia and Pine Grove Furnace State Parks are NOT considered State Forest land, and have completely different amenities, availability, and regulations," Bridget D. explains, highlighting the importance of researching specific locations.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near South Mountain, PA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near South Mountain, PA is Gettysburg Campground with a 4-star rating from 26 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 12 equestrian camping locations near South Mountain, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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