Equestrian camping is a distinctive feature near Starlight, Pennsylvania, with multiple facilities accommodating horse enthusiasts within the Pocono Mountains region. This rural area sits at approximately 1,800 feet elevation with moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, making spring through fall the primary horse camping season for the region.
What to do
Trail riding access: Promised Land State Park's Lower Lake Campground Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area provides direct connections to riding paths. David S. notes, "Clean bathrooms are essential and even when the large campground is full the bathrooms have been clean."
Water recreation: Keen Lake Resort Campground offers multiple water activities for when you're not riding. Shannon C. reports, "I stayed on a lakeside electric/water site for 5 nights in August 2020. It was SO BEAUTIFUL. We had SUPs and kayaks to take on the lake and our sites were right next to the boat launch."
Hiking alternatives: When not riding, explore the extensive trail systems. At Pickerel Point Campground, Alaina Z. recommends, "The Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked."
What campers like
Lakefront sites: Many equestrian campgrounds feature proximity to water. At Pickerel Point, Nancy L. shares, "My favorite site does [allow pets], plus I can launch my kayak right from there! The only drawback is no alcohol allowed, but most State Parks are like that I think."
Clean facilities: Bear Spring Mountain DEC maintains good bathroom standards despite horse activity. J G. notes, "There is an area for day use where you can rent a paddle boat or kayak to go out on the water. Highly recommended if you like hiking."
Wildlife viewing: Horse camping often provides opportunities to see animals. Amber A. reports about Bear Spring Mountain, "Lots of wildlife! There are two areas for camping, check out both though one smells kind of like a barn."
What you should know
Campsite terrain: Some sites can be challenging for tent setup. At Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area, Tiffany K. explains, "Was told it was a tent only spot but the layout was not great for tents. We used a three person tent and it was tight to fit in the site."
Animal smells: Kevin T. notes about Bear Spring Mountain DEC, "There is horses so you will smell them. There is a lake, grills, restrooms and showers."
Limited stores: Prepare by bringing supplies. Siobhan D. advises about Lower Lake, "Firewood was available in the area. But not much for stores so pack everything in before."
Tips for camping with families
Family activities: Lackawanna State Park Campground provides structured options for children. Michael notes, "We would love to come back in the winter when they have an ice rink with a warming house."
Lake swimming: Water activities complement horseback riding. Paula R. says about Pickerel Point, "Loved camping on Pickerel Point. Kids had a great time! The road is paved, it makes it easy for the kids to ride bikes, skate etc."
Educational programs: Look for nature activities while not riding. Dawn T. shares about Keen Lake, "This is a very nice park with a beautiful lake. Clean bath houses and very friendly staff. They have activities for all ages. My kids love going here and I also enjoy coming knowing I can relax and not worry about them."
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection: Choose sites strategically at horse campgrounds. At Keen Lake, Emily Z. recommends, "Get a site on the lake. If you don't want to drive during your stay, camp on the side w/ the beach and pool."
Power requirements: Check electrical specifications before booking. David notes at Lackawanna, "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained."
Accessibility considerations: Some areas have challenging terrain. Harry L. from Keen Lake advises, "I'll start with our arrival: well marked with signs directing you to office for checkin. They were very organized in the office."
