Woodward, Pennsylvania sits in the rolling ridge-and-valley terrain of central Pennsylvania with elevations ranging between 1,200-2,000 feet. The area contains several state forests including Bald Eagle and Tiadaghton, offering primitive roadside camping options with varying degrees of facilities. Seasonal considerations are important as most equestrian-friendly sites operate from April through October, with some trails closing during deer hunting season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Black Moshannon State Park Campground offers a 250-acre lake popular with anglers. "Nice campground with quiet 250 acre lake for kayaking. Good birding," notes Matthew U.
Trail riding: Hickernell Roadside Campsites in Bald Eagle State Forest provides access to numerous forest trails suitable for day rides. The campground accommodates tent camping with basic amenities for those bringing horses.
Ferry rides: Ferryboat Campsites maintains a historic river crossing that continues to operate. "The ferry here is real, and has been in operation for the last 100+ years," reports Avery M., making it a unique activity for equestrians after a day of riding.
Wildlife viewing: New Lancaster Valley Roadside Campsites offers primitive camping with opportunities to observe local wildlife. The forested setting provides natural habitat for deer, turkey and various bird species common to central Pennsylvania.
What campers like
River access: Little Buffalo State Park Campground provides water recreation options beyond horseback riding. "There is a large lake for fishing! You can rent boats there!" mentions Amanda H., adding versatility to your stay.
Pet-friendly environment: Many campgrounds in the region welcome both horses and domestic pets. "The camp is extremely pet friendly as long as they are on a leash," notes a reviewer about Ferryboat Campsites.
Natural water features: Black Moshannon State Park Campground offers a distinctive water experience. "Great camping area stop a mountain...nice unique lake that is incredibly dark in color. Lilly pads abound with great flowers," describes Clay P.
Spacious sites: When traveling with horses, adequate space is essential. "The sites are situated nicely, your neighbors are not 'right there'," reports Avery M. about the camping areas at Ferryboat Campsites.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian-friendly campgrounds near Woodward fill quickly, especially on weekends. "The campsite fills quickly on the weekends, kayakers and fishers, and motorboats use this as the weekend home," warns a reviewer about Ferryboat Campsites.
Weather considerations: River-adjacent sites may experience flooding. "We were told the campground is susceptible to flooding, so check the weather when you come!" cautions Robin about Ferryboat Campsites.
Shower access: Facilities vary widely between established campgrounds and primitive sites. "The showers are located in the RV section of the campground, so you will have to walk a bit if you are tent camping," notes Avery M.
Limited firewood: Some campgrounds restrict outside firewood or charge premium prices. "Wood at the camp store is incredibly expensive — they don't sell to nightly campers by anything more than the small bundle ($8)," reports melissa about Ferryboat Campsites.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Little Buffalo State Park Campground offers family-friendly water recreation. "They offer 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!" explains Amanda H.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer ranger-led activities suitable for children. "We did have a nice bat spotting walk with a Ranger when we were there and there's an interesting historic mill you can tour," mentions Christopher E.
Animal encounters: Beyond horses, some campgrounds feature additional animal attractions. "There is a small goat petting zoo, with very friendly pigmy goats," notes Avery M. about the facilities at Ferryboat Campsites.
Biking considerations: Terrain may present challenges for younger riders. "Only downfall is we have smaller children and we could not bike from the campground to the pool, it was too far and the hill to get back was too big for them to ride up," advises Paula R.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: East Run Road Site in Tiadaghton State Forest provides basic accommodations for smaller RVs with horses, though lacks full hookups that larger rigs may require.
Seasonal occupancy: Many campgrounds near Woodward feature long-term residents. "Most sites were occupied by permanent or seasonal residents. Bathrooms and grounds were very clean," reports Robin about their stay at Ferryboat Campsites.
Dump station access: For extended stays with horses, waste management becomes important. "There is a dump station available for the end," notes Amanda H. about the facilities at Little Buffalo State Park.
Utility considerations: Check each campground's specific hookup options. "We had one of the few full hook up sites. Very quiet and peaceful," shares Shirley M. from her experience at Little Buffalo State Park Campground.
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