Promised Land State Park offers horseback riders dedicated accommodations in the Pocono Mountains. The equestrian camping area sits at 1,800 feet elevation amid northern hardwood forests that cool considerably at night even during summer months. Rain averages 45 inches annually, creating lush trail conditions favorable for horse riding throughout the main season.
What to do
Trail riding access: Riders at Lower Lake Campground Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area can reach multiple trail systems directly from their sites. "Always a good trip. We have camped here in tents and with our teardrop trailer. All of our experiences have been good," notes camper David S., who appreciated the clean facilities even when the campground was at capacity.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes within 30 minutes of Union Dale provide fishing options for equestrian campers. At Lackawanna State Park Campground, anglers can fish from shore or non-motorized boats. According to David G., "Campground has cabins and yurts, pull in sites for RV's and strictly walk in tent sites. There is a beautiful lake and a very large pool."
Catskill Mountains exploration: For equestrian campers willing to drive 45 minutes north into New York, Bear Spring Mountain — DEC offers additional horse-friendly terrain. "Great flowers and nature. There is a hiking loop that goes around the pond," reports camper J G., who recommends renting kayaks at the day-use area when taking a break from horseback riding.
What campers like
Private lakefront sites: Many equestrians appreciate the option to camp near water when not using the dedicated horse facilities. At Pickerel Point Campground, Nancy L. explains, "My favorite site does [allow pets], plus I can launch my kayak right from there!" Horses aren't permitted at this location, but it's a popular choice for mixed-use camping trips.
Clean bathroom facilities: Unlike some rustic equestrian camping areas, most campgrounds near Union Dale maintain well-serviced facilities. Campers at Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area noted, "Bathrooms were clean and so was the site. Sites were a good size and not on top of each other," according to Siobhan D., who spent three nights tent camping.
Seasonal activity options: The region supports equestrian camping from spring through fall with winter options for experienced campers. Mara S. shares, "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers."
What you should know
Limited services: Most equestrian camping areas near Union Dale have basic amenities only. As Tiffany K. discovered at Beechwood Area, "Bathrooms and showers had been winterized. Stayed in a beechwood area camp site. Was told it was a tent only spot but the layout was not great for tents."
Horse-specific restrictions: Always check current regulations before bringing horses. At Bear Spring Mountain, Kevin T. noted, "There is horses so you will smell them," referring to the permanent equestrian facilities that affect nearby camping areas.
Site selection matters: When horse camping, carefully research specific sites. Alaina Z. advises at Keen Lake Resort Campground, "Sites have nice sizable fire pits, but they are very tall. It's difficult to cook over them, and sitting around the campfire in the evening is a much less visually appealing experience."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Schedule around peak usage times at equestrian facilities. Paula R. suggests, "Love that the road is paved, it makes it easy for the kids to ride bikes, skate etc..." which provides alternative activities when not riding horses.
Weather preparation: Pack for variable conditions even in summer. According to Emily Z., "My kids really loved having a pool to swim in, in addition to the lake," providing options when rain affects trail riding plans.
Space requirements: Family equestrian camping requires more room than standard camping. Dawn R. experienced this firsthand: "Short walk to bathrooms, showers and lake. Though had to drive to park and beaches. Would go back again and might try to stay in Pickerel point campground instead."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RVers towing horse trailers should research access routes carefully. Harry L. shares, "Well marked with signs directing you to office for checkin. They were very organized in the office. When we got to our site the sewer pipe was buried and we didn't know where it was."
Electrical capacity limits: Older campgrounds may have insufficient power for larger RVs with horse trailer accommodations. David noted at Lackawanna State Park, "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained."
Site spacing variations: RV sites with room for horse trailers vary widely between campgrounds. As Mike H. explains, "The security is great and patrol to make sure quiet hours are quiet to be courtiers to other campers that want quiet time."
Ranger
