Horse campgrounds near Hamden, Connecticut offer opportunities to camp with equine companions within a two-hour drive. Suffolk County Parks in Long Island, New York provide trail access and suitable terrain for riders seeking weekend getaways. Most equestrian-friendly sites require advance reservations, particularly during peak summer season when availability becomes limited.
What to do
Trail riding access: Sears Bellows County Park features extensive wooded trails connecting to a larger network. "This hidden gem is located right in Hampton Bays and is the perfect campground for anyone looking to camp off the grid. Tucked away in the woods is a beatiful well kept & maintained campground with spacious sites, a lake with kayaking access, and trails for bike riding and hiking," notes reviewer Lexis N.
Water recreation: Both bay and ocean activities complement equestrian camping trips. At Shinnecock East County Park, campers can alternate between riding and fishing. "The ocean is beautiful and we catch stripe bass. The bay is peaceful and we go crabbing," shares Anthony M., highlighting the dual-water access unique to this location.
Family playground options: When not riding, facilities accommodate younger family members. Sears Bellows offers substantial play areas for children. "The playground is really nice and big has a lot of slides. The bathrooms are in one area and the showers are in another area. Is good for dogs to the trails are nice and big," explains Gino D.
What campers like
Off-grid experience: The lack of electrical hookups creates a more immersive natural setting valued by equestrian campers. "My grandkids love camping here, it is so peaceful and great biking and hiking," reports Vivian T. about Sears Bellows County Park, though she notes "the only down fall no electricity."
Beachfront camping: Horse campers appreciate the unique ability to camp directly on sand near riding routes. Kayla G. enthusiastically states about Shinnecock East, "camping directly on the beach at one of the nicest beaches in the world. You cannot find another place like this!!"
Multi-day adventure options: Longer stays allow for varied activities between rides. "I would love to come back here someday, but stay maybe a day or two longer to do more things- I would also bring my bike and fishing pole to do more outdoor activities," suggests Nadia V., highlighting the diverse recreation possibilities that complement equestrian camping.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Beach access for horse trailers requires specific preparation at certain locations. Lisa M. advises about Shinnecock East County Park: "4x4 a must, air down a must. Beautiful on the bay or ocean side. They also have a hill top section. Beautiful views. Dry camping in an Rv no tents."
Water availability: While electrical hookups are absent, water access exists at main equestrian campgrounds. At Sears Bellows, "Each camp site spot has a provided water hook up. This campground does not have an electric hook up but generators are allowed!" according to Lexis N., important for campers with horses requiring regular water.
Reservation requirements: Horse campgrounds in Suffolk County fill quickly during peak seasons. Advance planning is essential, particularly for weekend dates between Memorial Day and Labor Day when sites with adequate space for trailers become limited.
Tips for camping with families
Rowboat rentals: Water activities provide alternative recreation for family members. "The first night I stayed here my friends and I rented some rowboats and went on the water. It was a lot of fun, and the price of the rowboat was pretty cheap," shares Nadia V. about Sears Bellows County Park.
Playground access: Children have dedicated recreation areas while adults prepare for trail rides. "The playground is really nice and big has a lot of slides," notes Gino D., making Sears Bellows suitable for families with varying age ranges.
Generator policies: Families requiring power for essential equipment should verify generator rules. While most equestrian campgrounds lack electrical hookups, some permit limited generator use during specified hours.
Tips from RVers
Beach camping preparation: Horse trailers and RVs require special considerations at oceanfront sites. "4x4 a must, air down a must," emphasizes Lisa M., noting the essential preparations for bringing larger vehicles to Shinnecock East County Park.
Off-grid preparation: RVers accustomed to hookups must plan differently for these equestrian-friendly locations. "This campground does not have an electric hook up but generators are allowed!" notes Lexis N., highlighting the need for self-sufficiency when camping with horses near Hamden.
Site spacing: Horse trailer configurations require consideration when booking. "Spacious sites" at Sears Bellows, as described by Lexis N., accommodate various camping setups including those with horse trailers, though specific pad dimensions should be verified when reserving.
