Equestrian camping opportunities around University Park, Pennsylvania include both dedicated horse-friendly sites and multi-use trail systems. The region sits within the Appalachian Mountain range at elevations between 1,000-2,500 feet with a humid continental climate featuring four distinct seasons. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, while spring and fall can see wider temperature swings, affecting trail conditions and camping comfort.
What to do
Trail riding at Bald Eagle State Forest: Located about 45 minutes from University Park, the forest offers extensive bridle paths through varied terrain. The Hickernell Roadside Campsites provide convenient access points to these trails with designated camping areas that accommodate horses and riders.
Kayaking and fishing: Black Moshannon State Park, about 25 miles from University Park, offers water recreation options for campers taking a break from horseback riding. A Black Moshannon camper describes the lake as "incredibly dark in color" with "Lilly pads abound with great flowers," making it a unique paddling experience.
Hiking with varied difficulty: For days when you aren't riding, explore the region's hiking trails. At Colonel Denning State Park, one visitor recommends "the trek up the Flat Rock Trail to the overlook. A six mile round trip with a 1200 ft climb. Spectacular views."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many equestrian-friendly campgrounds offer spacious sites that prevent crowding. At Colonel Denning State Park, campers appreciate that "sites are level and smooth" and the campground is "very quiet and small."
Clean facilities: Maintaining hygiene during horse camping trips requires reliable facilities. A visitor to Colonel Denning noted they had "the absolute cleanest bathrooms we've seen in a state park," making it more comfortable for extended stays with horses.
Educational programming: Black Moshannon State Park Campground enhances the camping experience with ranger-led activities. One camper mentioned "the park also runs a ton of classes for different things like fly fishing, hiking, etc," providing learning opportunities during your stay.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: All horse camping sites near University Park require advance booking, particularly during peak seasons. According to one visitor at Rothrock Roadside Campsites: "These sites used to be totally free but they're now $10 a night. You still need to book a while out if you want to be here on a weekend."
Access challenges: Many horse campgrounds are located on unpaved roads that may become difficult in adverse weather. A Rothrock camper warns: "This site is accessed by driving up a bit of a winding dirt road up the mountain... This road is not safe to access in the winter in my opinion."
Water quality variations: Some state parks in the region have unique water characteristics that may affect horses. At Black Moshannon, a visitor noted: "The Iron Ore mines from the past have left the creek water stained red which is why its called the Red Mo with the locals."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: When camping with children, having water recreation can enhance the experience. Little Buffalo State Park Campground offers "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!"
Kid-friendly activities: Some equestrian campgrounds offer additional attractions for children. At Ferryboat Campsites, visitors mention "a small goat petting zoo, with very friendly pigmy goats" that can entertain children when not riding.
Site selection strategy: Choose appropriate sites when camping with children at horse campgrounds. One Colonel Denning camper recommends: "We love the dog friendly sites near the water, the kids and pups play all day! We love how large site 15 is and that it is near the trail head."
Tips from RVers
Site layout considerations: When bringing an RV to horse campgrounds near University Park, carefully research the site configurations. A Little Buffalo visitor cautioned: "Very nice for a smaller campground. Only downfall is we have smaller children and we could not bike from the campground to the pool, it was too far."
Size limitations: Many horse camping areas have restrictions on RV size. At Ferryboat Campsites, a camper noted they "do have primitive camping spots next to the putt putt course and water only tent sits at the upper field. There are also water/electric sites in a loop behind the cabins."
Leveling challenges: Mountain terrain can create uneven campsites. A Colonel Denning visitor warned: "We have a small 19" travel trailer which was almost impossible to park due to very tight sites," highlighting the importance of researching specific sites before bringing horses and RVs together.
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