Chester County offers equestrian enthusiasts multiple trail riding opportunities within a 30-mile radius of Wayne, Pennsylvania. The region features wooded landscapes with mixed terrain suitable for riders of various experience levels. Most horse-friendly campsites in this area operate seasonally from April through October, with some exceptions for year-round facilities.
What to do
Trail riding at French Creek State Park: The park maintains 7,526 acres with several designated equestrian trails through scenic woodland and open fields. "There is also a frisbee golf course in the woods to make it even more interesting and competitive. The trees definitely make it harder!" notes visitor Jen R. about French Creek State Park Campground.
Water activities after your ride: Many local parks offer cooling options after a day on horseback. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, "You can launch your kayak easily from the shore" according to Ruette W., making it an ideal complement to equestrian activities at Spruce Run Recreation Area.
Hiking with non-riding companions: For mixed groups where some prefer hiking to horseback riding, Brendan Byrne State Forest provides alternatives. "There are so many trails for mountain biking or hiking, a frisbee golf course, playground at the campground and at the lake," shares a visitor at this natural area near Wayne.
What campers like
Private campsites: For equestrians who prefer quiet surroundings after a day of riding, secluded sites are available. At Hibernia County Park, Jennifer S. appreciates that "It's tiny (19 sites in Fiddlers loop), it's quiet, it's heavily wooded. There is NOTHING to do except walk or bike the beautiful trails, spend time on Chamber's Lake, spend time in the hammock and stare at the fire."
Easy access from major routes: Convenience matters when traveling with horse trailers. Lums Pond State Park offers "Easy access from I-95" with "Beautiful park setting with fantastic site—spacious, level, good-working hookups, and paved," according to Matt S. This makes trailer parking more manageable.
Clean facilities: After a dusty trail ride, clean shower facilities become essential. "The bathroom at the campground is very nice and new" reports a camper at French Creek State Park, though they note facilities require regular maintenance to stay in top condition.
What you should know
Trailer parking limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate horse trailers. Sites at Blackbird State Forest Campground offer "parking for 2-3 cars plus overflow parking," according to John C., but advance confirmation for larger horse trailers is recommended.
Seasonality affects availability: Most equestrian camping options have limited seasonal operation. Brendan T. Byrne State Forest visitor Dan notes, "Camped here many of times. Very Decent Camp in the Pine Barrens, Lots of potable water hydrants around the campground so not far of a walk to fill any water needs you may have."
Reservation requirements vary: Some parks require advance booking while others allow day-of registration. At Hibernia County Park, "Sites can be reserved online, by phone, or by 'first come, first served' self-registration" explains Jennifer S., though holiday weekends require advance planning.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with room for play: When camping with children and horses, space matters. At Mountainview Campground, Mario M. found "The property is well kept and campsites are a good distance from each other. Plenty of open field as well as wooded areas."
Look for multiuse recreation options: Parks offering diverse activities keep non-riders entertained. "There are two lakes, Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake that you can fish at, kayak, canoe or just relax by," notes a French Creek State Park visitor, providing alternatives for family members.
Consider accessibility needs: For families with varied mobility requirements, assess terrain challenges. "Most sites are heavily wooded which means plenty of hammock hanging opportunities. The sites are mostly grass, and not very well defined," reports a Hibernia County Park camper about site conditions.
Tips from RVers
Power limitations for horse trailer campers: Many equestrian-friendly sites have restricted hookups. "We had two sites this trip with water and electric, but they do have quite a few full hook-up sites" reports Craig F. at Starlite Camping Resort, noting the campground's accommodations.
Site leveling challenges: When traveling with combination RV and horse trailer setups, terrain matters. At Starlite Camping Resort, "Yes, it is quite hilly throughout the campground, but the individual sites are very level to park the camper with almost no blocks needed."
Space between sites for larger rigs: Equestrian campers often require more room than standard RVers. "Overall the sites were large, with trees between, providing additional privacy. Except for the Plateau sites, which have the amazing view, the rest of the campground had a great tree cover!" notes a Starlite visitor, important for those traveling with both horses and RVs.
