Equestrian campgrounds near Durham, New York offer self-sufficient camping opportunities for riders exploring the Catskill region. These locations provide access to mountain trails ranging from 1,500 to 4,000 feet in elevation. The camping season typically runs May through October with most equestrian facilities requiring advance reservations for both campers and their horses.
What to do
Hiking near lakes: North-South Lake Campground provides access to the Catskill Escarpment trail and newly developed viewing platforms. "A lot of the hiking nearby is also relatively easy and includes the newly opened (as of 2016) viewing platform for Kaasterskill falls, which is minutes down the road from the campground," notes Jessica W.
Stream fishing: Betty Brook Camp offers streamside camping spots where visitors can fish directly from their campsites. "You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots," explains Robert B., who mentions the remote nature makes it ideal for anglers seeking solitude.
Paddle sports: The small lake at Bear Spring Mountain — DEC has rental equipment for water activities. "There is an area for day use where you can rent a paddle boat or kayak to go out on the water. Highly recommended if you like hiking. Great flowers and nature. There is a hiking loop that goes around the pond," reports J G.
What campers like
Multi-generation appeal: The established campgrounds maintain facilities that have attracted visitors for decades. "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," shares Chris D.
Natural water sources: The region features natural springs and clean water access points. At Bear Spring Mountain — DEC, Kimberly S. reports, "Endless hiking and beautiful steams - you can drink straight from the pipes!"
Year-round accessibility: Some dispersed camping areas remain open throughout the year for those prepared for winter conditions. "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," describes Robert B. about Betty Brook Camp.
What you should know
Campground size variations: Sites range from small dispersed areas to large established campgrounds. Peter notes about Betty Brook: "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."
Seasonal crowds: North-South Lake Campground experiences high visitor numbers during peak times. "Always packed, but always beautiful. Awesome access to the Catskill Escaprment trail from here," mentions Maribeth W., while Tara L. advises, "Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds."
Wildlife precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage and waste management. Amber A. recommends at Bear Spring Mountain: "Obey bear rules!" This is particularly important for equestrian campers who must secure both human and horse feed.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas suitable for children of various ages. "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 North-South Lake Campground.
Playground access: Some campgrounds maintain playground equipment for younger visitors. Becky S. mentions, "Small playground was nice for the kids" when describing amenities at Bear Spring Mountain.
Bathroom facilities: Campground bathrooms vary widely in quality and maintenance. Brittany W. reports about North-South Lake: "The restrooms were clean and had showers, which we did not expect."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Many campgrounds provide adequate space between sites for privacy. "The sites are well spaced out. Great for families," notes Tara L. about North-South Lake Campground.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may present challenges for larger vehicles. About Betty Brook Camp, Peter cautions, "It is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road," noting that the site's small size makes it unsuitable for large trailers.
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary by campground, with some offering full hookups while others remain primitive. Amanda P. describes Bear Spring Mountain as "Clean, private, and quiet," which makes it popular despite limited amenities in some camping sections.
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