The equestrian trails at Beaver Creek State Park offer diverse riding experiences through forested terrain near Zelienople, Pennsylvania. Located in Ohio's Columbiana County just over an hour from Pittsburgh, this park sits at approximately 900 feet elevation with terrain characterized by rolling hills and creek valleys. Winter camping facilities remain open year-round but trail conditions can vary seasonally with spring bringing muddy sections on lower-lying paths.
What to do
Creek exploration: At Beaver Creek State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy canoeing and fishing along the creek that winds through the park. "This is a nice clean state park. There is canoeing but no swimming. Bass fishing is really fun because we caught a few nice ones!!" notes reviewer Mike T.
Historic sites: The park features a pioneer village with original buildings that makes for an interesting day trip. "The best part about the area was the history that surrounds it. There is a pioneer village near the park office that offers some picnicking areas around it. It also has original buildings from the pioneer days (church, school, etc)," shares Shay D.
Trail hiking: Access the North Country National Scenic Trail directly from the park for longer hikes. "Direct access to the North Country National Scenic Trail and trails through main park," writes Tracy H., highlighting the connectivity to broader trail systems.
What campers like
Pine-covered sites: The spacious, shaded camping areas at Jefferson Lake State Park Campground provide natural privacy between sites. "Perfect for our little Scamp trailer. Only 5 big electric sites, no showers or potable water. As a result it was so peaceful!" reports Teri A.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the less crowded feeling compared to larger facilities. "This smaller campground has a mix of equestrian sites and tent/RV sites. There are no showers, but the vault toilets were cleaned thoroughly every morning," mentions Kimberly.
Wildlife viewing: The natural surroundings attract various wildlife species. "We laid in our tent dozing off to the sounds of owls and coyotes!" shares Matt H. about his experience at Beaver Creek State Park Campground.
What you should know
Limited amenities: Moraine State Park near Zelienople has restrictions on regular camping. "Moraine State Park doesn't allow camping within the park and there is no campground affiliated with park. The one exception is along the North Country Trail, there are 2 rustic shelters that must be reserved through the park office," explains Greg K.
Water limitations: Many campgrounds in the region have restricted water access. "They are on a well so there is limited water and they don't allow you to fill up your on-board tank. Make sure you fill up before you go!" advises reviewer Bounding Around.
Road access restrictions: Some parks have limitations on vehicle types. "There is a road in the park (Echo Dell Road) that RVs/Trailers can't go on so make sure you approach this campground from Leslie Road!" warns the same reviewer about Beaver Creek State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near play areas when camping with young children. "We got a site near the playground, which my 3 year old enjoyed. The campground wasn't busy and we had a lot of privacy," recommends Matt H.
Stargazing opportunities: The relatively remote location of Hidden Hollow Campground provides excellent night sky viewing. "The sky was dark enough to see far more stars than you'd see near any larger towns or cities," notes Matt H.
Site selection: Pay attention to terrain when selecting sites. "You need to be careful when booking, especially if you are trying to pitch a tent, as some sites are quite sloped," advises Kimberly about Jefferson Lake State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many equestrian campgrounds near Zelienople, Pennsylvania require careful positioning. "Wasn't very primitive and the gun range is so close all you hear all day are guns but beautiful site 22 is at the end and away from others more than the other sites," mentions Career E. about Fernwood State Forest.
Electric availability: RVers should note the limited electric sites in the area. "Only 5 electric sites. Very clean pit toilets. Well maintained campground. A few equine sites. Only 2 electric eq sites. Electric is a little far behind pad. We almost needed extension cord," shares Eddie about Jefferson Lake State Park Campground.
Accessibility: Some primitive equestrian sites near Zelienople offer better access for larger rigs. "Small park, only a few sites with hookups, but very nice. Rustic, with trails to the main park that take you through beautiful woods," explains Ken M. about Beaver Creek State Park.
