At Ponderosa Campground in southern New Jersey, guests are greeted by more than just the usual outdoor scenery.
Little Hooves Farm, located on the campground grounds, has become a notable attraction for campers and visitors alike, offering hands-on animal experiences just five miles from the Atlantic Coast.
According to a press release, the farm was established by Marci Kelleher, who grew up at Ponderosa after her mother purchased the property in 1979.
In 2013, Kelleher combined her background as a special education teacher with her passion for outdoor learning to create a farm experience within the campground, beginning with a small group of fainting goats.
Kelleher credits her daughter, Sydney Nelson, with officially starting Little Hooves Farm. Nelson, a competitive barrel racer, spends her summers helping at the farm and often rescues animals while traveling across the western U.S. for racing events.
She brings them home to Cape May County for rehabilitation and care.
Nelson’s efforts include outbidding buyers at livestock markets. One such rescue was Prince, a miniature horse that now offers pony rides and interacts with children at the campground.
Although not a certified rescue facility, most animals at the farm were rescued or rehomed. The farm’s operational costs are partially offset by donations and a $5 admission fee for day visitors.
“A visit to Little Hooves Farm includes seeing all the animals and getting up close with some that are happy to come to the edge of their pen for affection. You can tour the grounds and stroll through the stables in the incredibly clean, and fashionably decorated barn,” the press release indicates.
Guests staying at Ponderosa Campground receive free access to the farm as part of their reservation.
Visitors can expect a clean, accessible facility where animals often come to the edge of their pens for affection.
The stables are well-kept and feature decorative touches aimed at creating an inviting atmosphere for families and children.
In addition to general visits, Little Hooves Farm hosts seasonal festivals and offers personalized experiences by reservation, including birthday parties and school field trips tailored for pre-K to third-grade students.
The farm is located at 18 West Beaver Dam Road in Cape May Court House. Visitors can learn more about programming and pricing by visiting littlehoovesfarm.com.
Camping reservations can be made through ponderosacampground.com.
Photos of Little Hooves Farm provided by Lisa Merman Bender
Editor’s Note: This article is based on a news release provided by the New Jersey Campground Owners Association (NJCOA) and a story originally written by Lisa Merman Bender for the 2025 edition of the New Jersey Camping and Vacation Guide. It has been adapted by the Modern Campground editorial team for clarity, brevity, and style.