Lower Lake Campground Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area in Promised Land State Park offers specialized horse camping facilities 40 miles northeast of Walnutport, Pennsylvania. Located in the Pocono Mountains at an elevation of 1,800 feet, this equestrian-focused campground provides cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowlands. The area maintains several miles of designated bridle paths that connect directly to the campground, allowing riders to explore the park's diverse terrain without trailering horses to separate locations.
What to do
Trail riding options: Riders at Tuscarora State Park can access multiple riding paths through varied terrain. "Off the beaten path in the middle of 'pennsyl-tucky'. No cell service at all unless you drive up to the top of the mountain," notes one camper, highlighting the remote experience. The state forest surrounding the campground offers extensive riding opportunities with minimal crowds.
Water activities: Pickerel Point Campground provides lake access for fishing and paddling after a day of riding. One visitor mentioned, "We stayed in site 100 and amazing views of the water from our camper. The trails were beautiful, recommend little falls trail." The campground offers designated areas for swimming and boat launches, creating additional recreational options for equestrian campers.
Historical exploration: While camping with horses, take time to visit nearby Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, located within 30 minutes of several area campgrounds. The site features wide paths suitable for walking after a day of riding, with historical structures dating to the late 1700s. Several trails connect to this location from the surrounding forests, allowing for educational day trips during your equestrian camping visit.
What campers like
Private sites: Horse campers appreciate the spacious layouts at French Creek State Park Campground, where "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," according to one review. This layout works well for equestrian campers who need additional space for their trailers and gear.
Clean facilities: The maintenance of bathroom and shower facilities matters to riders who spend long days on the trails. At Starlite Camping Resort, campers note that "The facilities are spotless and the campground is maintained to the highest standards I have seen." Another review adds, "bathhouses are clean and private. Owners are super nice."
Natural setting: Equestrian campers value the natural surroundings and wildlife viewing opportunities. "It was quiet and our neighbors were respectful of the quiet hours and our space," reports a camper at French Creek State Park. The wooded settings provide shade for horses during rest periods between trail rides while maintaining the backcountry feel riders seek.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian camping areas near Walnutport require advance reservations, particularly during peak summer months from May through September. Sites with electric hookups book fastest, often filling 3-4 months in advance for weekend dates.
Feed and equipment needs: There are no on-site feed stores at most horse camping facilities in the region. Riders must bring all necessary feed, hay, and equipment. "There are no camp stores where it is available for purchase. There is not a lot of structure to the bag but since the material is pretty thin whatever you pack in there you will feel sticking you if you don't pack correctly," notes one camper about general packing concerns at Mountainview Campground.
Weather considerations: The mountain location means weather can change quickly. "We had site 100 and amazing views of the water from our camper. The trails were beautiful, recommend little falls trail," a camper at Pickerel Point mentioned, though rapidly changing weather conditions can affect trail conditions. Summer thunderstorms typically occur in late afternoon, so plan morning rides for more reliable conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Spruce Run Recreation Area offers family-friendly amenities beyond horse facilities. "Several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area," notes one review, making it suitable for families with both riders and non-riders in the group.
Kid-friendly trails: Look for shorter loop trails marked as "easy" on trail maps for young riders. Many parks designate certain paths as beginner-friendly with minimal elevation changes and wider paths. These trails typically range from 1-3 miles in length, perfect for children building their riding confidence.
Safety considerations: When camping with horses and children, maintain clear separation between horse areas and play zones. Most equestrian campgrounds have specific regulations about where horses can be tied or grazed. "I stayed at the Beechwood location at the Promised Land state park and despite the constant rain, it was quiet and peaceful. The RV pads were spaced put perfectly and we all had our own picnic table and fire pit," notes a camper at Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area, highlighting how proper site spacing improves safety.
Tips from RVers
RV size limitations: Most equestrian camping areas can accommodate horse trailers with living quarters, but check specific site dimensions before booking. Standard sites at Hemlock Hill typically accommodate rigs up to 35 feet, though some can handle larger combinations.
Hookup availability: Electric hookups (30-amp and 50-amp) are available at most equestrian campsites, but water and sewer connections vary by location. One camper notes, "RV sites are large, many have nice mix of sun and shade. You can launch your kayak easily from the shore," indicating the spaciousness that works well for larger rigs.
Parking considerations: When arriving with a horse trailer, scout your approach route carefully. "If you're hauling a big camper you'll need power for the hills," warns a Starlite camper. Most equestrian campgrounds have pull-through sites designed for trailer combinations, but entry roads may have tight turns requiring careful navigation.
Ranger
