Limekiln Lake Campground offers horse-friendly camping options within the Adirondack region near Brantingham, New York. The 271-site campground spans forested terrain with sites accommodating riders who bring their own containment systems. The campground enforces specific equestrian regulations regarding manure management, while providing access to select trails and forest roads that permit horseback riding. Sites designated for equestrian use feature level terrain suitable for both camping equipment and horse trailers, with water available from campground spigots.
What to do
Stargazing at the lake: Limekiln Lake provides exceptional night sky viewing opportunities with minimal light pollution. Campers can walk to the boat launch area for unobstructed views of the stars and Milky Way, particularly from sites near the water. According to Lena L., "We loved our stay at Limekiln Lake! We had site 270, which was close enough to walk down to the boat launch at night to look at the stars (and the Milky Way!)"
Paddling exploration: The clear waters of Limekiln Lake Campground create ideal conditions for kayaking and canoeing, with rental options available on-site. "The lake this time of year is beautiful and clear and a very nice temperature for dunking in. There's a lot to explore out on the kayaks," notes Lena L. Rental equipment is available through a convenient self-service system.
Wildlife observation: The lake environment supports diverse wildlife including carnivorous plants and various bird species accessible by water. Anna G. reports: "Rented a canoe for the day and found a patch of carnivorous plants and got up close with several birds on the water." Morning hours typically offer the best viewing conditions before recreational boat traffic increases.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: The campground layout provides substantial privacy with wooded buffers between sites. "Our site was spacious, with room for two cars, 4 kayaks, and two tents. Behind the site is wooded forest, and the campsites on either side are far enough away to feel secluded," shares Lena L. The tree coverage also allows for hammock setup between sites.
Clean water quality: The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone offers excellent water access with notably clean conditions. "Very very clean water you can see the bottom. I have been to multiple lakes in Adirondack, you may confirm one of the cleanests," states Murat H. The water temperature reaches comfortable swimming levels by July.
Proximity to hiking trails: The area provides access to multiple hiking trails within short driving distances. Andrew M. notes, "From limekiln lake campground we were able to complete a number of hikes, having to only drive minutes down route 28!" These trails offer varying difficulty levels suitable for both casual walks and more challenging hikes.
What you should know
Insect activity levels: Black flies and gnats can be particularly aggressive during late May through early June. Anna G. reports, "The flies and gnats were kind of bad, but we had a screen room to keep them at bay." Theresa D. confirms this challenge: "Black flies are brutal in end of May beginning of June." Proper insect protection is essential for both horses and riders during these periods.
Bear safety requirements: The campground provides bear-proof storage boxes at sites due to active black bear presence. "They provide bear lockers big enough to house your yeti coolers and secure enough to give you piece if mind while sleeping," advises Andrew M. Campers should inspect these boxes for damage as Lena L. cautions, "Our friends left a couple of closed bags of chips in there, and mice got into them, we think through a tiny crack."
Limited garbage disposal: Limekiln Lake Campground has centralized garbage collection rather than distributed receptacles throughout the grounds. Murat H. explains, "The campground is very strict about the garbage though, which can be a problem because there are no garbage dumbsters all over the camp it is only at the enterance." Campers should prepare to transport waste to designated areas.
Tips for camping with families
Biking opportunities: The campground road network provides safe cycling routes with minimal vehicle traffic. Jynee Z. confirms, "Really nice park kids got to ride their bikes everywhere with minimal traffic." Paved areas near the beach and main camping loops offer the most suitable terrain for younger riders.
Beach access considerations: The swimming beach maintains clean conditions but requires planning for families staying in distant sites. "Beach was kept clean," notes Theresa D., while Lena L. mentions her site was "a little too far to walk to the beach." Families should consider site location relative to beach facilities when booking.
Early rental planning: The Villages at Turning Stone RV Park provides equipment rentals, but availability becomes limited quickly during peak periods. Jynee Z. advises, "If you're planning on running a kayak better do it early they sell out quick." Morning rental arrangements are recommended, particularly during holiday weekends.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for equestrian campers: When planning equestrian camping near Brantingham, New York, site selection significantly impacts the experience. "Site 270 is just around the corner from the bathroom and water spigot, and feels very private within the rest of the campground," advises Lena L. This site and nearby locations offer adequate space for horse trailers while maintaining privacy.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds in the region experience noise from nearby transportation corridors. Michael O. notes at one facility, "The only real negatives would be the proximity to some railroad tracks, which can be somewhat active and very audible in some spots (you'll want to stay towards the south / front of the park if this kind of thing bothers you)." Requesting sites away from main roads enhances the camping experience with horses.
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