Equestrian accommodations and riding opportunities define the horse campgrounds near Big Pool, Maryland and surrounding region. Within a 40-mile radius, campers can access several sites offering dedicated equestrian amenities. The Appalachian mountains provide varied terrain for riders, from gentle forest paths to more challenging climbs with elevation changes of 500-1000 feet.
What to do
Battlefield horseback tours: At Artillery Ridge Campground, visitors can take guided tours through Gettysburg National Park. "You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback. Nice catch and release pond in campground," notes Zack, highlighting additional activities at the site.
ATV and off-road trails: The Cove Campground offers extensive trail networks for motorized recreation. As Ben M. reports, this campground has "everything I wanted. Shooting range, ATV trails, fishing, hiking and great campsites."
Lake activities: Many campgrounds feature lakes with recreational options. Karl S. mentions The Cove has "several different camping areas, and depending on where you end up, you might have a short walk to reach the best fishing spots." Shawnee State Park offers "Great swimming and kayaking/small boating. The campground was nice, quiet and clean," according to Casey S.
What campers like
Historical proximity: The Civil War history attracts many campers to the region. "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts," explains MJ B. about Artillery Ridge Campground.
Unique wildlife encounters: Some campgrounds feature unexpected animal interactions. Karl S. notes about The Cove: "One unique (and awesome) touch: there are goats casually roaming around the campground. It adds a fun, unexpected charm to the place."
Free camping options: Michaux State Forest provides no-cost camping alternatives. "Michaux State Forest campgrounds have vault toilets and the sites are well-maintained. I went in late fall and was the only camper at the area I stayed in... it's free," explains Jen S.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds have variable site quality. At Shawnee State Park Campground, Lee D. advises: "I heeded the advice of other reviewers warning that many sites were not level and did not reserve ahead of time. Most of the non-electric sites were decidedly not level but many of the FHU and electric sites were fairly level."
Seasonal limitations: Certain camping areas have restricted availability. Bridget D. explains that Michaux State Forest's "designated motorized sites... are open April 2 until the 3rd Sunday after Thanksgiving" while "designated motorized parking lot sites... are open year-round."
Bathroom facilities vary: Quality and availability of facilities differs between campgrounds. Nancy L. notes The Cove's "showers are even farther-like a 15-20 minute walk with bad signage directing to. The view from the showers were breathtaking, but the showers themselves left much to be desired."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with family amenities. Shanna B. recommends The Cove: "They have a small beach, picnic tabels everywhere, a volleyball ball sand court, a dock, you can fish in the lake, rent non motorboats... Owners are super chill, just follow the golden rules and enjoy."
Playground access: Gettysburg Campground offers recreational options for children. Kelly J. reports, "It is a wonderful place to have Kids. tons of things for them to do. we were in tent sites which felt bigger than most and were right by river."
Seasonal hazards: Some campgrounds have specific environmental concerns. Dave G. warns about Gettysburg Campground: "The tenting area is calm and has a creek right next to it to listen to in the evening and morning. One of the drawbacks of this campground is that a lot of the trees are black walnut trees and the squirrels do not shy away from dropping the walnuts like bombs on your head, car, or table when you're preparing breakfast."
Tips from RVers
Electrical options: Many sites have multiple hookup configurations. At Teaberry Parking Area Campground, prepare for potential challenges as noted by j A.: "It was a very large gravel lot with 5 sites along one side, pretty well spaced. The campsites were pretty, parking on the edge of the sites in the parking lot felt a lot like just being in a parking lot with a view of trees on one side."
Cell service considerations: Reception varies widely in rural areas. Karl S. notes, "It's worth noting that cell service is minimal to nonexistent — not a big deal for most campers, but something to keep in mind."
Site access challenges: Some campgrounds require careful navigation. Gerard from Shawnee State Park reports: "As we drove through the rest of the RV park area we noted that many of the sites had very awkward back-in approaches that did not provide sufficient area to maneuver a large rig into them."
