Equestrian camping near Summerdale, Pennsylvania offers several options within the South Central Pennsylvania woodlands at elevations ranging from 400-1200 feet. The terrain varies from river valleys to wooded mountains, creating diverse trail experiences for riders. Access to trails changes seasonally with spring conditions often muddy through mid-May and summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F.
What to do
Trail riding in Michaux State Forest: Located about 45 minutes southwest of Summerdale, Michaux State Forest permits horse camping with proper arrangements. "Every January for the last few years some friends and I have gone and camped along the Appalachian Trail. It's you can park at Pine Grove State Park and then hike your way into locations or park at other trail heads," notes John S.
Explore historic battlefields: Artillery Ridge Campground in Gettysburg provides access to historic trails. "Amazing location surrounded by the national park. The grounds are nice and shaded, and you don't feel crowded," explains Sean M. Riders can follow designated trails through battlefield areas with proper permits.
Fishing between trail rides: Many campgrounds offer water access for fishing when not riding. "Its an amazing little quite camping ground. Super clean. Lots of easy hiking trails and tons of fishing," reports Brandon C. about Little Buffalo State Park Campground.
What campers like
Private sites with river views: At Ferryboat Campsites in Liverpool, campers appreciate the water proximity. "We stayed at a Susquehanna river view site with full hookups for 2 nights. Site was level and shaded, but very close to neighbors," notes Robin. The site offers horse stables and access to river activities.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses. "Very nice staff and accommodations. Centrally located with kid friendly activities. Would definitely go back!" reports Ken K. about Gettysburg Campground.
Evening wildlife viewing: Several sites offer opportunities to spot wildlife at dusk. "The park rangers had an owl program on Friday night and ended up calling in several screech owls. Very cool to hear their eerie cries in the woods," writes Nate & Erika L. about Colonel Denning State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal campground closures: Many facilities close during winter months. "i love camping here. the camping area is closed summer 2018. but should be open next year after they finish their project on fixing the park to make it better," explains Danielle W. about Colonel Denning State Park.
Horse-specific regulations: When bringing horses, call ahead to confirm requirements. "There are horse stable available as well on site," mentions Avery M. about Ferryboat Campsites, one of the few facilities with dedicated equestrian accommodations.
Storm risk assessment: Weather conditions can impact camping safety. "Storms with heavy rain in the area made the river rise. We were told the campground is susceptible to flooding, so check the weather when you come!" warns Robin about Ferryboat Campsites.
Limited cell service: Coverage varies throughout the region. "AT&T cell reception at our site was hit or miss, but good in the rest of the campground," notes Dave B. about Artillery Ridge Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Starlite Camping Resort offers family-friendly water activities. "Starlite offers a wide variety of amenities such as a community pool, general store, snack bar, playground area, toilets, indoor shower stalls, daily activities, pets permitted, water/electric utilities and laundry units," explains Brie A.
Kid-friendly water features: Many parks have dedicated areas for young children. "They offer a large area that is only 1 foot deep, great for little ones! There is also a splash pad! There are 2 slides for fun!" shares Amanda H. about Little Buffalo State Park.
Animal encounters: Several campgrounds offer wildlife or farm animal interactions. "There is a small goat petting zoo, with very friendly pigmy goats and the camp is extremely pet friendly as long as they are on a leash," says Avery M. about Ferryboat Campsites.
Playground access: Check distance to playgrounds when selecting sites. "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," advises Paula R.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Gettysburg Campground offers varied terrain. "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," explains Jim G.
Power needs for hilly terrain: RVers should plan for additional power when navigating the region. "If you're hauling a big camper you'll need power for the hills," advises Chris G. about Starlite Camping Resort.
Hookup availability: Water and electric options vary by location. "We had two sites this trip with water and electric, but they do have quite a few full hook-up sites. Overall the sites were large, with trees between, providing additional privacy," notes Craig F.
Seasonal reservation requirements: Peak times require advance planning. "We had a great family camping weekend at Starlight and will definitely return in the future. Yes, it is quite hilly throughout the campground, but the individual sites are very level to park the camper with almost no blocks needed," reports Craig F.
