Equestrian camping near Canajoharie, New York offers opportunities for horseback riders seeking wilderness experiences in the Mohawk Valley region. The area sits at approximately 600 feet above sea level with a humid continental climate characterized by warm summers and cold winters. Trail conditions are typically most favorable from May through October, when average daytime temperatures range from 60-85°F.
What to do
Horseback trail riding: Betty Brook Camp connects to several local riding trails through forested terrain. Riders report the stream-side location provides natural water access for horses. According to Robert B., "Love to camp here all year long have been coming to the area for a couple of decades now. Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people. You camp on the stream."
Water activities: At Luzerne Campground, campers can enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating. The campground features a swim-at-your-own-risk beach and boat rentals. Dan H. notes, "Lover being on the far side of the lake with the private beach and no motorboats allowed. Tons of bike riding options. Great little lake for kayaking and fishing."
Hiking trails: The Murphy Lake area offers challenging terrain for day hikes. The Murphy Bennett Trails provide access to secluded spots. Tony F. describes the experience: "This leanto is worth the effort it takes to get there. And you have to earn it on foot, bike or other. A two hour bike ride with a couple of breaks. The Murphy Bennett Trails is a technical challenge to hike, or bike in on."
What campers like
Secluded sites: Charles E. Baker State Forest provides primitive camping with minimal development. Matt A. reports, "Beautiful forest with miles of trails. I found this spot passing through on my bike and had no problem pitching a tent in a secluded spot in the woods. There are official camp spots with water access which are also free to use."
Convenient facilities: Moreau Lake State Park Campground offers more developed sites with amenities. Nancy W. shares, "Campsites are spacious, shady, and had good separation between the neighboring sites which we enjoyed. Generators are allowed but not too many people were using them. The park was not very crowded when we were there."
Family-friendly environments: Many campgrounds in the region accommodate families with children. At Luzerne Campground, Antoinette W. notes, "We have been going to this campground for almost 15 years and my husband went here as a kid with his family. We always get the same site, for 15 years. My daughter loves it here."
What you should know
Access challenges: Some horse-friendly sites require advanced planning for trailer access. Murphy Lake Leanto is particularly remote. Tony F. warns, "And be prepared to go over downfalls. The area is maintained, but wind happens in the old growth forest. Well marked with blue Trail Blazers, the trail snakes its way through the wilderness."
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian camping sites in the region require advance booking, especially during peak summer months. Some primitive sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Seasonal considerations: Spring can bring muddy conditions on trails, while summer weekends typically see higher visitor numbers. Robert L. notes at Moreau Lake that "during the summer season I wouldn't go here expecting to have the park to yourself."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety protocols: When camping with children at lakeside sites, establish clear swimming boundaries. At Betty Brook Camp, Peter mentions, "There's a stream alongside it, a fire pit, and a town about 8 mi away. It's a small town, with just a gas station store."
Activity planning: Schedule mixed activities for different age groups. Moreau Lake State Park offers diverse options as Harry H. describes: "We enjoyed the hiking trails and beach while camping, then went further north for the full ADK experience."
Supply management: The remote nature of equestrian camping requires careful planning for food, water, and horse supplies. At Charles E. Baker State Forest, Cameron notes, "Water access at a lovely nearby pond. Highly recommended. Only giving 4 stars because the best free sites have water pumps and vault toilets."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: When traveling with horses and RVs, choose sites with adequate parking space. Peter from Betty Brook Camp advises, "I would not recommend this for large trailers. The site is fairly small, but it's in state park, and there's tons of walking that can be done."
Hookup limitations: Most equestrian-friendly campsites offer limited or no hookups. At Moreau Lake State Park Campground, Nancy W. reports, "This is dry camping so there are no hook-ups but there are restrooms and shower. Both were clean but the shower fluctuated between lukewarm, hot, and warm during my shower."
Equipment planning: For horse camping with RVs, bring portable corrals or high-line equipment. Tony F. shares about Murphy Lake: "Once at the large Leanto, you will find a fire pit and ample room for many tents if needed."
