Equestrian campgrounds in the Richmond, Rhode Island area provide designated facilities for riders and their horses across state forests and management areas. These specialized sites typically operate seasonally from spring through fall when trail conditions are optimal for riding. Equestrian campers can access extensive trail networks directly from campsites, with options ranging from wooded paths to challenging terrain suitable for various riding levels.
What to do
Trail riding access: The Frog Hollow Horse Camp at Pachaug State Forest offers direct connection to three horseback riding loops without needing to reposition trailers. "Three horseback riding loops leave from the campground. There's also fishing and hiking available in the forest," notes Jean C.
Outdoor recreation: Sites at Normandy Farms Campground support multiple activities beyond horseback riding. "We chose a paved full hook-up pull thru with paved patio. All utilities were well-placed and functioned properly. The site was level," reports Nancy W., who appreciated the comprehensive facilities.
Seasonal activities: Fall camping provides more comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds at horse-friendly campgrounds. Gary G. at Wolf Den Campground noted, "No other campers here when we arrived, so totally silent. No road noise. Most sites are relatively short level pads, with little or no shade, but very pleasant."
What campers like
Designated equestrian facilities: Horse campers appreciate the purpose-built accommodations at equestrian campgrounds near Richmond. Sites typically include space for camping gear, horse trailers, and designated areas for securing horses overnight.
Natural surroundings: The Preserve Club and Residences offers exceptional outdoor environments. Chris M. described it as "New England's most amenity rich properties, in fact it may be the only place in the world that has such a diverse amount of outdoor offerings."
Spacious campsites: Many horse campers value sites with adequate room for their equipment. At Wolf Den Campground, "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," according to Jean C.
What you should know
Booking requirements: Most horse campgrounds in the area operate on a first-come, first-served basis with limited information available online. "It's hard to find much information about this equestrian, first come, first serve campground in Connecticut's Pachaug State Forest," notes Jean C.
Seasonal availability: Equestrian campgrounds typically close during winter months. Wolf Den Campground operates from "May 26 to September 4" according to park information, with limited services outside peak season.
Facility limitations: Basic amenities are standard at horse campgrounds. At Frog Hollow Horse Camp, "Campsites are located around a loop with a couple of composting toilets near the entrance. Water is available. There's space for your camping gear as well as a trailer and horseline," describes Jean C.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Wolf Den Campground offers family-friendly amenities beyond equestrian facilities. "Large open areas for kids and adults to play during day and star gaze at night. Close to a small walking path and a larger intermediate hiking trail," reports 175 P.
Educational opportunities: Several horse campgrounds near Richmond provide historical or natural learning experiences. Jean C. mentions at Wolf Den, "a small brook with an old mill and blacksmith shop that is sometimes open on weekends for tours. It's a nice place to explore and have a picnic."
Site selection for shade: When camping with families in summer, prioritize shadier sites. Jean C. recommends at Wolf Den Campground, "Sites 20 is the only one with electric. The ones toward the back of the loop back up toward the woods and give you some more privacy."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric service varies between horse campgrounds near Richmond. LeGrand Reynolds Horsemen's Camping Area offers both 30-amp and 50-amp electric hookups for overnight visitors, while water is available at most sites.
Pad types: RV sites at these specialized campgrounds typically feature basic layouts. Gary G. notes at Wolf Den Campground, "Most sites are relatively short level pads, with little or no shade, but very pleasant. We picked site 33 for the best shade and longer pad."
Dump station access: Not all horse campgrounds provide full sanitation facilities. Plan accordingly by arriving with empty holding tanks and departing before they fill, or locate nearby dump stations if staying multiple nights.
