North-South Lake Campground offers one of the largest public equestrian camping options near Delmar, New York, located in the Catskill Mountains approximately 60 miles southwest. The campground connects to several trail systems through mixed deciduous forest with elevation changes ranging from 1,800 to 2,300 feet. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during day and 50-65°F at night, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for temperature fluctuations.
What to do
Swimming opportunities: North-South Lake Campground features two connected lakes with designated swimming areas and sandy beaches. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," notes Lizz H. who visits regularly.
Trail riding access: Equestrian campers can access multiple trail systems directly from Arcadian Pastures Equine, where riders must bring their own containment systems for horses. The trails traverse rolling countryside with mixed hardwood forests and open meadow sections.
Hiking options: Moreau Lake State Park offers over 20 miles of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. "I love the spacious campsites. It's very woodsy between sites, so it seems very private. Over 20 miles in hiking trails, this is one of the nicest parks I've visited," shares Michi P. about the park's trail network.
Water activities: Kayaking and canoeing are popular at several locations, with rental options available seasonally. "Nice sandy beach with lifeguard hours. Facilities are relatively modern but still basic, nice and clean," reports Amber A. about Moreau Lake.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Moreau Lake State Park Campground offers well-separated campsites with natural screening. "Campsites are spacious, shady, and had good separation between the neighboring sites which we enjoyed," notes Nancy W. in her review of the park.
Remote locations: Betty Brook Camp provides a more secluded experience for those seeking solitude. "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. You camp on the stream," shares Robert B. about this dispersed camping option.
Equine amenities: Horse campgrounds near Delmar, New York typically require advance reservation to ensure adequate space for both horses and camping equipment. When comparing facilities, consider that drinking water availability varies between locations, with some sites offering limited access.
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance standards receive consistently positive feedback from visitors. "Clean and well run campground with beautiful lakes and surrounded by trails. Perfect Hudson getaway," mentions Rachel G. regarding North-South Lake.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Reserve very early for waterfront," advises Rachel G. about North-South Lake Campground, while weekend availability at all horse camping facilities generally requires booking 3-6 months in advance.
Seasonal considerations: Spring camping can present muddy conditions on trails, particularly during thaw periods. Fall offers colorful foliage but requires warmer sleeping gear as temperatures can drop below 40°F at night.
Crowd factors: Proximity to major travel routes affects visitor numbers at some locations. "Nice state campground, very clean, nice staff. Campground and swimming area becomes very crowded, especially on holiday weekend due to proximity to I-87 and number of downstate tourists that frequent the park," explains Robert L. about Moreau Lake State Park.
Trail conditions: Trail difficulty varies significantly across the region, with some routes unsuitable for inexperienced riders or horses. Most equestrian trails remain closed during spring thaw periods, typically from late March through mid-April.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated recreational facilities. "Great hiking, biking, swimming, boat/canoe/paddleboard rentals," shares nancy K. about Moreau Lake State Park's family-friendly options.
Multigenerational appeal: Sites with diverse activity options accommodate various age groups. "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," reflects Chris D. about creating new memories at familiar locations.
Safety considerations: Families camping with children should note that not all equestrian campgrounds allow non-horse pets, and children need close supervision around horses and water features. Most family-oriented sites maintain quiet hours from 10pm to 7am.
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: RV campers should contact equestrian campgrounds in advance to confirm trailer accommodations. "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. regarding Moreau Lake.
Hookup availability: Limited facilities exist for larger rigs at dedicated horse campgrounds near Delmar, with most offering basic amenities rather than full hookups. RVers should prepare for primarily dry camping with occasional water access points.
Parking configurations: Equestrian camping typically requires space for both living quarters and horse trailers, which can limit maneuverability. Most sites accommodate up to 40-foot combined length, but corners and access roads may present challenges for larger configurations.
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