Ferryboat Campsites offers equestrian campers direct access to the Susquehanna River with multiple trail options. Located in Liverpool, Pennsylvania, the campground is about 30 miles north of Steelton at 500 feet elevation, providing both riverside and field camping environments. Tent sites are situated in open fields with some shaded options available in the loop area, requiring campers to plan for temperature fluctuations typical of Pennsylvania's seasonal climate.
What to do
River recreation: Spend time at Ferryboat Campsites enjoying activities along the Susquehanna. "Lots to do very close to water and many things to do in and around camp ground. Stayed for a few days would go back," notes Elaine R. The campground provides direct river access for fishing, boating, and relaxation.
Historic exploration: Visit Artillery Ridge Campground for Gettysburg battlefield access. "Amazing location surrounded by the national park. The grounds are nice and shaded, and you don't feel crowded," says Sean M. The campground connects directly to historic sites, with battlefield tours available from the property.
Trail riding: Explore forested trails at Little Buffalo State Park Campground, which offers "tons of hiking trails" according to Lisa L. The park provides multiple trail difficulty levels suitable for both novice and experienced riders, with routes that connect to scenic overlooks and water features.
What campers like
Peaceful riverside sites: Campers appreciate the waterfront setting at Ferryboat Campsites. "We enjoyed our stay here — but mostly because we liked being right on the water. The weather was hot so lots of tubing and fishing and kayaking in the river — we loved to sit out and watch the water go by," writes Melissa.
Clean facilities: Colonel Denning State Park Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Cleanest facilities of the year so far, amazing large flat sites, dog friendly and great stream right behind the sites," reports Casey L. The bathhouses are frequently mentioned as well-maintained and tidy.
Family activities: Recreational options for all ages are available at multiple locations. At Little Buffalo State Park, Amanda H. notes, "They offer nice trails to hike. There is a large lake for fishing! You can rent boats there! There is a pool! The pool is very nice! They offer a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones! There is also a splash pad!"
What you should know
Booking processes: Different reservation systems exist across area campgrounds. At Little Buffalo, Amanda H. explains, "You can book your site on line and go straight to your site! no check in required. If you are passing through and there are sites you can sign in by the honor envelops!"
Terrain considerations: Many sites have elevation changes that affect camping comfort. At Michaux State Forest, Jen S. advises, "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. Unfortunately you cannot reserve sites online and it's a little tricky, but it's free..."
Horse accommodations: Beyond Ferryboat's stables, equestrian options exist at other locations. Bridget D. notes that at Michaux State Forest, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Gettysburg Campground offers creek access popular with children. Kelly J. reports, "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."
Animal encounters: Beyond Ferryboat's goat petting zoo, families can find wildlife opportunities. At Little Buffalo State Park, Dawn N. shares that "wildlife is everywhere and there is even an eagle nest in the park and you can see the pair and often their young."
Swimming options: Pools and swimming areas provide relief during summer months. Paula R. explains at Little Buffalo State Park: "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. Pool was great once you got there."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose your campsite carefully based on size and shade. At Starlite Camping Resort, Craig F. advises, "Overall the sites were large, with trees between, providing additional privacy. Except for the Plateau sites, which have the amazing view, the rest of the campground had a great tree cover!"
Seasonal considerations: Plan for different camping conditions throughout the year. At Teaberry Parking Area in Michaux State Forest, one camper warns about specific seasonal challenges: "The first 3.5 days there were lantern flies actively trying to get into our rig, digging themselves behind the window screens, etc. and then day 4 they were gone. It was traumatic."
Hookup availability: Evaluate utility options when booking equestrian camping near Steelton. Jim G. notes at Gettysburg Campground, "The amenities 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."
