The Gilboa area offers several equestrian camping options within the western Catskill Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 feet. The region features mixed hardwood forests, small streams, and rolling terrain that creates diverse riding conditions. Primitive campsites typically open from May through October with seasonal closures during winter due to snowfall and muddy spring conditions.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Betty Brook Camp provides access to state park land where riders can explore forested areas alongside streams. According to Peter, who lives near the campground, "It's in state park, and there's tons of walking that can be done."
Fishing access: Ponds and streams near Bear Spring Mountain — DEC offer fishing opportunities. One visitor noted, "Pond/very small lake was nice for fishing. Brought bikes but the roads were way too steep."
Water recreation: At North-South Lake, campers can enjoy swimming and boating during summer months. Lizz H. reports, "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time."
Hiking trails: The area surrounding Gilboa features numerous hiking paths suitable for both riders and those exploring on foot. A visitor to Bear Spring Mountain — DEC mentioned, "There is a hiking loop that goes around the pond. Great flowers and nature."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Horse camping areas near Gilboa often provide secluded sites away from crowds. Robert B. says about Betty Brook Camp, "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."
Natural water sources: Campers appreciate streams and ponds adjacent to campsites for both horses and personal use. One camper describes Betty Brook: "You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots."
Clean facilities: At North-South Lake Campground, Jessica W. appreciates that "Their staff is friendly and knowledgeable, bathrooms & beach areas are always clean, & the hiking nearby is fantastic."
Spring water quality: The natural springs in the western Catskills provide excellent drinking water for both horses and humans. Kimberly S. noted about Bear Spring Mountain, "Nothing but woods all around! Endless hiking and beautiful steams - you can drink straight from the pipes!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many established campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season. For North-South Lake Campground, Rachel G. advises, "Reserve very early for waterfront."
Site limitations: Not all horse camping locations accommodate large trailers or rigs. Peter notes about Betty Brook Camp, "I would not recommend this for large trailers. The site is fairly small."
Seasonal considerations: Most horse campgrounds operate seasonally. At North-South Lake, the season runs "May 19 to October 22," while Bear Spring Mountain operates "mid May-late Aug."
Town access: Limited services exist near some remote campsites. According to Peter, Betty Brook Camp has "a town about 8 mi away. It's a small town, with just a gas station store."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Families with children can enjoy designated swimming areas at larger campgrounds. According to Chris D. at North-South Lake Campground, "Camping, swimming, hiking, boating, biking, this place has it all."
Playground availability: Some campgrounds include play areas for children. One camper mentioned about Bear Spring Mountain, "Small playground was nice for the kids."
Bathroom facilities: When camping with families, knowing bathroom options is essential. Brittany W. noted about North-South Lake, "The restrooms were clean and had showers, which we did not expect."
Accessible trails: For families with varying hiking abilities, choose campgrounds with appropriate trail options. Jessica W. mentions that North-South Lake offers hiking that "is also relatively easy and includes the newly opened (as of 2016) viewing platform for Kaasterskill falls."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV campers appreciate well-designed campgrounds with adequate space. At Bear Spring Mountain — DEC, Amanda P. found the sites "Clean, private, and quiet! We had a blast!!"
Hookup availability: Electric, water and sewer connections vary by campground. Eliany L. had a positive experience at North-South Lake: "This campground has many different size sites big enough for groups and small for just single."
Road conditions: Access roads to horse campgrounds may present challenges for larger vehicles. Peter warns about Betty Brook Camp being "rather remote, but it is right along West kill road."
Campground layout: Some equestrian campgrounds have separate areas for different camping styles. J G. notes that Bear Spring Mountain has "an area for day use where you can rent a paddle boat or kayak to go out on the water."
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