French Creek State Park offers equestrian camping options 30 minutes from Oaks, Pennsylvania. The 7,730-acre park contains four camping loops with 200 sites ranging from primitive to full-service hookups. Loop C permits both horses and dogs, making it the preferred choice for equestrians traveling with pets. The campground provides direct access to dedicated bridle trails that connect with the park's broader trail network, keeping riders separated from hikers and mountain bikers.
What to do
Trail riding at French Creek: The park maintains designated equestrian trails throughout the property. "We loved our stay at this park, and plan to return. We tented in loop D...lots of hiking, the lake is beautiful, at least two playgrounds (perfect for our kids), the bathrooms were well maintained," notes Katie M. about French Creek State Park Campground.
Kayaking on Chambers Lake: Hibernia County Park offers multiple water activities for when you're not riding. "Walking/hiking trails and the lake were super peaceful," writes Chelsea about her experience at Hibernia County Park. The park has three bodies of water: Chambers Lake, Brandywine Creek, and a dedicated children's fishing pond.
Obstacle courses near equestrian areas: For families seeking additional adventure, some nearby parks offer unique activities. "Bike trails, Going Ape, kayaking and peaceful. Planning my next trip," shares Leah H. about the activities available at Lums Pond State Park, referring to the treetop adventure course located near the equestrian trails.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Many horse-friendly campgrounds prioritize space between sites. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers," explains Jen R. about her experience at French Creek State Park Campground.
Equestrian-friendly layout: Starlite Camping Resort offers generous sites that accommodate horse trailers. "Overall the sites were large, with trees between, providing additional privacy. Too often private campgrounds attempt to squeeze as many sites as possible and end up with campers on top of their neighbors, but at Starlight, the sites felt very secluded," reports Craig F. about Starlite Camping Resort.
Year-round availability: Some equestrian campgrounds in the region remain open through winter. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! If you're traveling through, there are many places to eat nearby," notes Galit P. about off-season camping at French Creek State Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian campgrounds near Oaks require advance booking. "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises Ellen B. about Lums Pond State Park Campground, which offers equestrian sites with newly renovated facilities.
Varying levels of equestrian facilities: Not all campgrounds offer the same level of horse amenities. "Sites are full hook up with about 5 tent sites. All are pretty much level. Close to shopping if needed," explains Sandy E. about Lums Pond, which has dedicated equestrian areas but limited primitive camping options.
Bathroom quality varies: Facilities at horse campgrounds range widely in quality. "Stayed here 2 nights without a reservation. We were in the D loop which is rustic with no hookups. Quiet, very few people mid-week. Spacious sites. Bathrooms were just okay. Muddy floors - don't know how often floors are cleaned," reports Cheryl K. about her experience at French Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds near equestrian areas: When bringing children along with horses, look for campgrounds with multiple recreation options. "There is a huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake. There are trails for mountain biking or hiking, a frisbee golf course, playground at the campground and at the lake," explains Jen R. in her review of Spruce Run Recreation Area.
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Many equestrian campgrounds offer fishing opportunities for younger family members. "The lake campground. My kids are age 3-12. The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," shares Anna about Hibernia County Park, which features a dedicated children's fishing pond separate from the main lake.
Multi-activity options: Look for horse-friendly campgrounds with diverse activities. "There are so many wonderful activities. There really is something for everyone here and if you can't find it you aren't looking very hard," writes another Jen R. about French Creek State Park, mentioning the combination of horseback riding trails and family recreation areas.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: When bringing an RV and horse trailer, choose sites carefully. "The site offered electric and water but they were on 2 different sides. This made it difficult to set up. Had to park the camper crooked to use both," notes Amanda H. about Mountainview Campground, emphasizing the importance of checking utility placement.
Concrete pad availability: Many equestrian-friendly campgrounds have upgraded their facilities. "The recently renovated campground features concrete pads, full hookups, and spacious sites that accommodate larger vehicles needed for horse transport," explains a reviewer about Lums Pond State Park, which has invested in improvements specifically beneficial for equestrian campers with RVs.
Terrain considerations: Horse-friendly campgrounds often have challenging terrain. "If you're hauling a big camper you'll need power for the hills," advises Chris G. about Starlite Camping Resort, referencing the steep access roads common at campgrounds with equestrian facilities.
