Arcadian Pastures Equine provides dedicated facilities for equestrian camping near Clarksville, New York. The Catskill Mountain region surrounding Clarksville features rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 feet, creating varied trail experiences for horse riders. Trail conditions typically remain optimal from May through October, with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during peak riding season.
What to do
Trail riding at North-South Lake Campground: Multiple interconnected trails offer varied terrain for riders of different experience levels. "Located just about a mile from Kaaterskill Falls this campground couldn't be in a better spot. We had a wonderful weekend there," notes Brittany W. about North-South Lake Campground.
Swimming with horses: Several water access points allow horses to cool off during summer rides. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," says Lizz H. about the lake areas.
Overnight pack trips: Plan multi-day rides between camping areas. "Been there couple of times. Love it. Two lakes. Highly recommended," mentions Luka M., highlighting the option to camp near water features.
Scenic photography: The Catskill escarpment provides numerous vista points for landscape photography. "Awesome access to the Catskill Escaprment trail from here," explains Maribeth W., pointing out trail connections to scenic overlooks.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Horse campers appreciate adequate space between camping areas. "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," shares Robert B. about Betty Brook Camp.
Clean facilities: Regular maintenance ensures comfortable camping conditions. "Clean and well run campground with beautiful lakes and surrounded by trails. perfect Hudson getaway. Reserve very early for waterfront," advises Rachel G.
Access to water sources: Streams and lakes provide natural water features. "There's a stream alongside it, a fire pit, and a town about 8 mi away," explains Peter about the stream access at Betty Brook Camp.
Trail variety: The network offers options for beginner to advanced riders. "Their staff is friendly and knowledgeable, bathrooms & beach areas are always clean, & the hiking nearby is fantastic. A lot of the hiking nearby is also relatively easy," reports Jessica W.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian sites require advance booking. "Reserve very early for waterfront," recommends Rachel G. about securing prime locations.
Weather considerations: Spring conditions can be muddy on trails. "The park was not very crowded when we were there, but we can imagine it could get very busy and noisy in the busy summer season," notes Nancy W. about Moreau Lake State Park Campground.
Seasonal operation: Most horse camping facilities close by mid-October. "The park operates from May 6 to October 13," according to park information.
Limited supply access: Stock up before arrival. "It's a small town, with just a gas station store. I would not recommend this for large trailers," warns Peter about nearby services.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites near amenities: Select camping areas with access to restrooms when traveling with children. "Great for families. The lake is huge. Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds," advises Tara L. about North-South Lake Campground.
Plan beginner-friendly rides: Several trails suit novice riders. "Large family friendly campground with all the amenities - boating, showers, great hiking," comments Becky G.
Schedule non-riding activities: Include alternate recreation options. "I'm a native of the Catskills and spent many an afternoon with my family enjoying the facilities at North/South Lake. I've recently started going there again with my own family and it's great to see them take the same enjoyment I did. Camping, swimming, hiking, boating, biking, this place has it all," shares Chris D.
Bring weather-appropriate gear: Temperature variations can be significant. "Since it was still a little cool and our windows were closed and we never heard anyone's generator," explains Nancy W. about shoulder season camping.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for trailers: Choose pull-through sites for easier maneuvering with horse trailers. "The road to our campsite was paved and in good shape but there were a few tight spots because of the trees that make it tricky for a big rig (Loop A seems to be the best for big-rigs)," advises Nancy W.
Generator usage: Verify generator policies as they vary between campgrounds. "Generators are allowed but not too many people were using them. The few other campers around that used them were mindful of quiet hours," explains Nancy W.
Dump station locations: Plan waste disposal stops in advance. "This is dry camping so there are no hook-ups but there are restrooms and shower," notes Nancy W.
Space requirements: Verify site dimensions can accommodate both camping gear and horse trailers. "Our campsite was spacious but required some maneuvering to avoid scraping trees with our RV. Campsites are spacious, shady, and had good separation between the neighboring sites which we enjoyed," shares Nancy W.
