Frontier Town Campground provides specialized equestrian camping facilities in North Hudson, approximately 30 miles southwest of Essex, New York. The campground features three distinct camping loops, with the equestrian area designed specifically for those traveling with horses. Sites in the Stagecoach loop are notably spacious, with some campers reporting sites large enough to accommodate multiple large RVs. The campground operates seasonally with modern bathroom facilities that are regularly maintained.
What to do
Trail riding access: Frontier Town serves as a strategic base for equestrian activities with direct trail connections to the surrounding Adirondack wilderness. Charles K. notes, "This is a great home base to explore from the Lake George region to Ticonderoga to day hikes or cycling." The property connects to multiple trail systems suitable for various experience levels.
Lake recreation: AuSable Chasm Campground provides water-based activities for those seeking alternatives to horseback riding. "Terrific location to hike the different trails of ausable chasm. Good sized site with electric and water. Shady but also had sun to dry our shoes from the raft tour," reports YM C. The campground offers rafting tours during summer months.
Winter exploration: Branbury State Park Campground across Lake Champlain provides seasonal alternatives when some Adirondack facilities close. While Frontier Town closes seasonally, Lisa S. notes about Branbury: "The hiking trails nearby are very nice. There are bears in the area, so be aware and store all food properly." Many trails convert to cross-country skiing routes in winter.
What campers like
Modern facilities: The newer construction at Frontier Town appeals to equestrian campers seeking updated amenities. Butch K. observes, "Everything looked spic and span like it had just opened last month." The shower and bathroom facilities receive consistent praise for cleanliness and maintenance.
Morning sunlight positioning: Strategic site selection can enhance the camping experience. "This is an old-growth forest area so a site on the west side of the road gives best Morning sun - sites 57 and 59 are good examples," recommends Charles K. This orientation helps with morning warmth during cooler Adirondack mornings.
Natural swimming areas: AuSable Chasm Campground offers natural water features for cooling off after trail rides. Nicole E. from a nearby campground describes a similar appeal: "A five minute hike- though it is quite a rocky, boulder-y hike- from the sites leads to a small river and swimming hole." These natural features complement the equestrian focus of the region.
What you should know
Seasonal insects: Biting insects can be problematic during early summer months in the Adirondacks. Butch K. warns, "I saw the bugs, some of them clearly mosquitoes and I never saw one get away with biting me. But I ended up with two lower legs and two forearms that constantly itch like mad. I will never go back in June." Insect repellent is essential for both horses and riders.
Site configuration challenges: The specialized design for equestrian camping can create issues for conventional camping setups. Sheri C. notes, "Sites are built wrong so it is hard to get you camper into your site correct. It is definitely catered to the equestrian part of the camping." Non-equestrian campers may prefer standard camping loops.
Campground roads: Access roads within some area campgrounds may present challenges. Brian P. reports about one nearby location, "The 'road' into the campground is more like a goat trail, with numerous washouts and uneven rocks and dirt." Call ahead to verify road conditions, particularly after heavy rain.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families combining equestrian activities with children's needs, Branbury State Park Campground offers additional recreation options. J L. highlights, "Spacious sites, hiking trails, biking trails, nice beach and grounds. Fishing, kayak, canoe, paddle boat and paddle board rentals. Theres a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground."
Site spacing considerations: When camping with children near Essex, select sites with adequate space between neighbors. Catherine M. observes about her experience, "I couldn't believe how large the lots were. While they arent super far from one another, they are large enough that they seem further than they are."
Bear awareness: Teach children proper food storage protocols when camping in the region. Multiple reviewers mention bear activity, with Lisa S. cautioning, "There are bears in the area, so be aware and store all food properly." Keep all scented items secured in vehicles or bear-proof containers.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: RVers utilizing equestrian sites should bring substantial leveling equipment. Butch K. explains, "I was in site 43, it was long enough it could have fit two of the biggest RVs I have ever seen. My 75 foot starling cable did not even reach all the way back out to the road." The expansive sites may require longer utility connections than standard campgrounds.
Electrical connections: Equestrian sites at Frontier Town feature shared electrical pedestals that service multiple sites. "I drove through the equestrian loop and found it very confusing. Lots of fences and shared pedestals," notes Butch K. Bring extension cords and water hose extensions to reach utilities regardless of where you position your rig.
Weekday scheduling: For easier site navigation and setup, consider midweek visits when occupancy is lower. "The young man at the check in station said there were very few people there except on the weekends," reports Butch K., allowing more flexibility in positioning larger rigs within the specialized equestrian camping layout.
Ranger
