Kelly Pines Campground is the ideal spot for horse lovers looking to explore the natural beauty of Pennsylvania's forests. Offering a perfect blend of rustic wilderness and useful amenities, this equestrian campground provides a comfortable and convenient retreat for riders seeking adventure.
Imagine waking up to the sound of horses neighing, surrounded by the peaceful forest with breathtaking views of the creek in the distance. Pack a picnic lunch and hit the trails for a day of exploration, or simply relax at your campsite while enjoying the company of your faithful equine companions.
With 38 miles of designated trails to explore, Kelly Pines Campground provides ample opportunities for horseback riding. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to the sport, the Spring Creek Horse Trail system offers a variety of trails to suit any experience level. From easy, scenic trails to more challenging ones, there's something for everyone.
In addition to the beautiful surroundings and excellent horseback riding, Kelly Pines Campground offers important safety features for both horses and riders. Each campsite is equipped with a horse tie-down shelter, ensuring that your horse is secure and protected while you're away from camp. The gravel base and rubber mat provide a comfortable and safe place for your horse to stand, and the log rails help to prevent injuries. The double site has an 8-horse tie-down shelter and is perfect for larger groups or families. A fire ring and picnic table are also available at the campsite.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended horseback riding trip, Kelly Pines Campground is the perfect destination. With its beautiful surroundings, modern amenities, and excellent safety features, this equestrian campground is a true gem in the heart of Pennsylvania's forestlands. So pack your bags, saddle up your horses, and head out to Kelly Pines Campground for an unforgettable equestrian adventure.
Directions:
From Marienville, take FS 130 to FR 131 N in Lamonville (turn left at the 4-way intersection). From Kane or Ridgeway, take State Route 66 to FR 124 (Duhring Road) at Pigeon. Take FR 131 to the right where the road Y's just before crossing Spring Creek. Follow FR 131 to Kelly Pines. Note that vehicles above 40 ft. in length are encouraged to view the location prior to making reservations. There is a sharp turn and bridge to cross that longer vehicles can have difficulty maneuvering.
Kelly Pines Campground offers the following facilities and amenities:
- Day Use Area
- Drinking Water
- Hitching Racks
- Horseback Riding Trails
- Parking Area
- Shade
- Vault Toilets
- Picnic Table
- Grills/Fire Ring
- Quiet Area
- Privacy
- Horse Stalls
- Manure bins
- Horse Watering Station
Nearby Attractions
Enjoy the thrill of forest riding. Horse riding is permitted in many areas of the Allegheny National Forest, but in the Spring Creek area, riders must stay on designated trails. During wet conditions, riders can ride Forest roads, but no cross-country riding is allowed. The Spring Creek Horse Trail is a major nearby attraction with over 38 miles of trail, some of which is also on State Game Lands.
Policies:
- Campfires are permitted as long as fires are maintained in a fire ring and fully extinguished when leaving.
- Riding is only permitted on the trail and Forest Roads in this area – please, no cross-country riding within the Spring Creek Horse Trail system.
- During the riding season, sites 3-7 are for equestrians only.
- All vehicles and trailers should be on the spur provided.
- The center of the turn-around circle is for day-use parking only.
- No temporary corrals, pickets, or high-lines are permitted.
- Please clean your stalls before you leave and place the manure inside the bin near the toilet.
- Pack out all your trash.
- Horses must be tied in the stalls in the shed.
Cost Details:
- Campsites fees range from $15-25
Notes: Reservations can be made by visiting Recreation.gov. Reservations must be made 7 days ahead of arrival and can be made up to 6 months in advance. Entry roads and bridges are not suitable for trailers or RVs that are over 50 feet in length. No watering tank, but a hydrant exists with potable water suitable for livestock use.
If you want to discover and explore other campsites and horse trails, here are some of them that you may visit:
ALLEGHENY NATIONAL FOREST - Pigeon Run Falls Trail
COOK FOREST STATE PARK - Cook Trail
GOLD BEACH, OREGON - Pistol River Dunes Trail to Lola Lake Trail
NORTH BANK HABITAT MANAGEMENT AREA - Blacktail Ridge
Kelly Pines Campground does require reservations for overnight accommodations. Please visit their page here on Top Horse Trails - Kelly Pines Campground for more information