Lower Lake Campground Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area offers dedicated facilities for riders and horses in Promised Land State Park. Located 30 miles northeast of Stroudsburg in Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountains, this equestrian campsite sits at approximately 1,800 feet elevation. The park's geography features two lakes surrounded by a forest of beech, oak, maple, and hemlock trees, creating cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowland areas.
What to Do
Horseback riding trails: Access miles of multi-use trails directly from the Hemlock Hill camping area. These routes connect through the woodland terrain of the Pocono Mountains with "trail heads near the campsites and longer trails, including access to the Appalachian Trail within a short 10-15 minute drive," as noted by a visitor at Stokes State Forest.
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line in the park's lakes for various species. At Keen Lake Resort Campground, campers report success with smaller fish: "The kids caught multiple sunnies and even a small perch." The lakes at Promised Land State Park offer similar fishing potential.
Paddling options: Explore the waterways by kayak or canoe. "Every campsite is close to the water. Our site had kayak access and that was a real bonus," shares a visitor about their experience at Pickerel Point Campground in Promised Land State Park.
What Campers Like
Cool mountain climate: The higher elevation provides relief from summer heat. A camper at Stokes State Forest noted the comfortable temperatures: "wonderful campsite with good weather in the summer - not too hot during the day and nice and cool overnight."
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower buildings receive regular maintenance. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, a camper mentioned: "Bathrooms were clean and other campers were quiet making for a peaceful trip."
Wildlife viewing: The area offers opportunities to observe native species. One camper at Mountainview Campground reported an exceptional experience: "We heard foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise!"
What You Should Know
Horse accommodations: While the equestrian area doesn't have permanent corrals, there's space for portable corrals or highlines. Riders should bring their own containment systems for horses.
Weather considerations: Fall brings color but also temperature changes. A camper at Mohican Outdoor Center noted: "If you're there in the summer, I'd recommend taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries."
Road conditions: Some access routes require careful navigation. One visitor commented: "Watch the local roads for potholes" when traveling to Promised Land State Park.
Reservation needs: Book sites well in advance, especially for equestrian camping. Sites fill quickly during summer and fall weekends.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly activities: Many nearby parks offer structured programs. A visitor to Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area shared: "Short walk to bathrooms, showers and lake. Though had to drive to park and beaches."
Flat camping areas: Look for level sites for easier tent setup. "The site was well maintained and flat which were the most important," noted a camper at Keen Lake.
Multiple accommodation options: Consider cabins for mixed family camping experiences. "We stay in the cabins. It's great to have the small kitchen when camping with the family," shared a visitor to Stokes State Forest.
Swimming options: Many parks offer designated swimming areas. "The lake is crystal clear and the beach is spotless. You absolutely have to bring a kayak/inflatable boat, but if you don't own one, don't worry, you can rent one," reported a Pickerel Point camper.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Equestrian sites typically offer electric, water and sewer connections. A camper at Beechwood Area noted: "The RV pads were spaced out perfectly and we all had our own picnic table and fire pit."
Site selection strategy: Choose carefully for size and access. "If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs," advised a visitor to Spruce Run Recreation Area.
Level parking areas: Most equestrian sites provide reasonably level parking. "The landing for the camper was even with gravel and the rest of the site was mostly even. The power station was well intact with 15/20, 30, and 50amp," reported a Mountainview Campground guest.
Dump station access: Equestrian camping areas provide nearby sanitation facilities for horse waste disposal and RV tanks.