Equestrian campgrounds in Connecticut and Rhode Island offer specialized accommodations for those traveling with horses. Frog Hollow Horse Camp at Pachaug State Forest operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with sites designed to accommodate both camping equipment and horse trailers. The campground has approximately 50% occupancy during fall months, making it accessible even during popular riding seasons. Water facilities serve both riders and horses, while composting toilets provide basic sanitation.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: At Frog Hollow Horse Camp at Pachaug State Forest, riders access three distinct loops directly from the campground. "Three horseback riding loops leave from the campground. There's also fishing and hiking available in the forest," notes camper Jean C.
Road cycling: Myles Standish State Forest offers paved trails suitable for road bikes. "Great camping spot to road ride from. Nice park. Good access to surrounding new England towns," shares Mike M. The forest maintains both paved and mountain bike trails for various cycling preferences.
Swimming in kettle ponds: The spring-fed ponds at Myles Standish State Forest provide clear water for swimming. "The pond water was very clear, seeing as they are fed from natural springs under the ponds," reports Kyle C. These natural swimming areas offer relief during summer camping trips.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Charge Pond Campground features sites with natural screening. "Very quiet, and we were the only people in the loop for a couple of days. Sites are nice and level and large. Vegetation between sites for privacy," reports Amie C., highlighting the spaciousness of the camping areas.
Rustic cabins near Boston: Ponkapoag Camp offers cabin accommodations without electricity or running water. "Ponky is a hidden jem! Minutes from Boston, feels Miles away. Love the cabins! Spending Friday & Saturday in one of the cabins (w/woodstove) is deal for a winter weekend adventure!" shares Stu L.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds feature stocked ponds for anglers. "The kids can hang out in the clubhouse if it's raining or swim in the pond if it's hot. Lots of hiking trails," notes Stacy at Ponkapoag Camp, describing the recreational options available to campers beyond horseback riding.
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: State park campgrounds often operate on limited schedules. "Myles Standish State Park is located just this side of the Cape Cod canal so your not actually 'on the cape'. The park is a great staging area for day trips to Plymouth and all its history as well as being and easy bike ride to the upper cape," explains Joe B.
Alcohol regulations: Massachusetts state parks prohibit alcohol consumption. "When you are sitting by the campfire, sometimes, chilling with a beer or another adult beverage is nice. Not in Massachusetts State Parks. No alcohol allowed," warns Randy R. about Myles Standish State Forest.
Bathroom facilities vary: Wolf Den Campground provides basic facilities. "Bathrooms were clean and staff were friendly. Would definitely stay again," shares 175 P. At other equestrian campgrounds, facilities may be limited to composting toilets without showers.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "There's a small playground in the middle of the loop, a number of hiking trails throughout the park along with a few geocaches (download details for offline use a phone connection is spotty), a swimming pond, and a small brook," notes Jean C. about Wolf Den Campground.
Historical sites nearby: Normandy Farms Campground provides access to regional attractions. "We planned a brief stop in the Boston area with the intent of seeing the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum and Normandy Farms appealed to us for various reasons," shares Nancy W., highlighting the educational opportunities in the region.
Water activities for children: Multiple ponds provide swimming options. "We have always loved it here. It is rustic camping, no water or electricity and the bathroom is an outhouse and no showers. The people are friendly and we have always had a good time," reports Stacy about Ponkapoag Camp.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At equestrian campgrounds near Providence, Rhode Island, select sites based on trailer access. "The campsites are located around a loop with a couple of composting toilets near the entrance. Water is available. There's space your your camping gear as well as a trailer and horseline," explains Jean C. about Frog Hollow Horse Camp.
Hookup availability: LeGrand Reynolds Horsemen's Camping Area offers electric, water, and sewer connections for equestrian campers requiring utilities. These sites include picnic tables and designated fire areas.
Navigating with larger vehicles: Consider campground layout when bringing horse trailers. "The parking pads are paved and a few have overhanging branches, but the trees provide separation and some shade on largely open sites that tend to open up toward the back with open areas for pitching tents," warns Jean C. about Wolf Den Campground, advice applicable to horse camping sites as well.
