Charles E. Baker State Forest provides primitive camping options in a secluded woodland setting. The forest connects to a network of trails suitable for hiking and horseback riding. Located in the eastern section of Otsego County, the forest contains several small ponds and streams that support local wildlife populations. Winter camping remains available when roads are accessible.
What to do
Trail riding exploration: Riders seeking equestrian camping near Hartwick, New York can access numerous trails through the state forests. At Charles E. Baker State Forest, one visitor noted, "Beautiful forest with miles of trails. I found this spot passing through on my bike and had no problem pitching a tent in a secluded spot in the woods."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple locations offer pond and stream fishing access during warmer months. According to a visitor at Bear Spring Mountain, "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."
Wildlife observation: The forested areas support diverse wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the year. A camper at Bear Spring Mountain emphasized the natural surroundings, stating, "Lots of wildlife! There are two areas for camping, check out both though one smells kind of like a barn."
What campers like
Water features: Streams and ponds enhance the camping experience. At Betty Brook Camp, one regular visitor shared, "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."
Solitude and privacy: Many campsites provide separation from neighboring campers. A Charles E. Baker State Forest visitor mentioned, "Camped here on a Thursday night in late September. Only found one designated campsite, which was available, but there's a lot of good space for dispersed camping right nearby."
Seasonal variations: The area offers different experiences throughout the year. A Betty Brook Camp local resident explained, "I live near this campground. I'm about a mile away and I pass it every day. It is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites offer minimal amenities. At Charles E. Baker State Forest, a camper observed, "Campsite consists of a fire pit and picnic table. Some litter, not too bad. No toilets. Bugs aren't an issue. Water access at a lovely nearby pond."
Road conditions: Access roads to some sites may present challenges for certain vehicles. As one The Villages RV Park camper contrasted, "We had no problem getting a nice paved spot for our 34' class A," highlighting the difference between established and dispersed sites.
Supply planning: Local shopping options remain limited near most horse-friendly sites. A Betty Brook Camp visitor advised, "It's a small town, with just a gas station store. I would not recommend this for large trailers."
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate activities: Several locations offer child-friendly amenities. A visitor to Bear Spring Mountain noted, "Small playground was nice for the kids."
Hiking difficulty levels: Consider trail challenge levels when planning family outings. One visitor commented, "There is a hiking loop that goes around the pond," which offers a manageable distance for younger hikers.
Wildlife education opportunities: The diverse ecosystems provide natural learning experiences. A Bear Spring Mountain visitor shared, "I drove to NYC for a business trip and ended up driving 1 and a half hour to reach this place. This campsite isn't the best but is still good. There is horses so you will smell them."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many equestrian-focused sites cannot accommodate larger rigs. A Betty Brook Camp visitor cautioned, "The site is fairly small, but it's in state park, and there's tons of walking that can be done."
Hookup availability: Established campgrounds offer more services than dispersed sites. A visitor to The Villages RV Park shared, "Spacious FHU sites. Pull thru and back ins," highlighting amenities not available at primitive horse camping locations.
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain at forest sites. As one camper noted at The Villages, "We scheduled a pull through for 1 night last minute due to an unexpected change in plans. The sites were level and great size with nice spacing in between."
