Horse campgrounds near Herkimer, New York offer diverse terrain across the Adirondack foothills and Central New York forests. Located approximately 90 minutes east of Syracuse, this region features elevations ranging from 400 to 1,200 feet with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak season. Trail systems often connect to larger networks throughout the region's mixed hardwood forests and small lakes.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The Murphy Lake Leanto area provides access to technical trails through old-growth forest. "This leanto is worth the effort it takes to get there. And you have to earn it on foot, bike or other. A two hour bike ride with a couple of breaks... passing by two other bodies of water, Bennett and Middle Lakes, you pass through rocky, rooted terrain and pine tree barrens," reports Tony F.
Fishing excursions: Limekiln Lake Campground offers excellent water access with rental equipment available. "The lake is beautiful and quiet, very very clean water you can see the bottom. I have been to multiple lakes in Adirondack, you may confirm one of the cleanests," notes Murat H., who recommends getting a waterfront site for easy kayak landing.
Stargazing: Many equestrian campsites in the region have minimal light pollution, making them ideal for night sky viewing. "We loved our stay at Limekiln Lake! We had site 270, which was close enough to walk down to the boat launch at night to look at the stars (and the Milky Way!)," writes Lena L., who also mentions hanging multiple hammocks at their tree-surrounded site.
What campers like
Seclusion: Betty Brook Camp offers private camping along a stream. "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," explains Robert B., highlighting the isolation that many horse campers prefer.
Year-round access: Several equestrian camping areas remain open during winter months. "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. There's a stream alongside it, a fire pit, and a town about 8 mi away," shares Peter about Betty Brook Camp.
Clean facilities: The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone maintains high standards for amenities. "Very well kept up, bathrooms are very modern and well stocked. Staff are attentive and useful, and they operate a great store with lots of options," notes Michael O., who appreciates the campground's thoughtful design despite being primarily for RVs.
What you should know
Wildlife awareness: Bears are present throughout the region's forests. "There is a minor bear problem but they didn't do much besides sniff around. Rangers were always right on top of things when one would wonder around and sure to chance them off," reports Kevin C. about Limekiln Lake, where bear lockers are provided for food storage.
Insect preparation: Charles E. Baker State Forest and surrounding areas have seasonal insect activity. "The flies and gnats were kind of bad, but we had a screen room to keep them at bay," mentions Anna G., who visited the region in mid-June. Another camper noted that "black flies are brutal in end of May beginning of June."
Reservation requirements: Most established equestrian campgrounds require advance booking. "We scheduled a pull through for 1 night last minute due to an unexpected change in plans," reports Jen O. about Turning Stone, where they found "the sites were level and great size with nice spacing in between."
Tips for camping with families
Multi-activity options: Equestrian campsites often have additional recreation. "For activities, there are some great hikes around the campground, as well as excellent playgrounds, fishing, an awesome pool, and of course, free shuttle rides to the Turning Stone Casino right up the street," shares Michael O.
Campsite selection: Researching specific sites pays off. "If your lucky enough to get a water site it's even better. We camp here for two weeks every year in July," advises Kim M. about Limekiln Lake, which another reviewer called "the best park in ADK."
Trail difficulty assessment: When planning rides with children, consider terrain carefully. "The Murphy Bennett Trails is a technical challenge to hike, or bike in on. And be prepared to go over downfalls... Once at the large Leanto, you will find a fire pit and ample room for many tents if needed," explains Tony F. about Murphy Lake Leanto.
Tips from RVers
Site specifications: RV sites vary significantly across horse campgrounds near Herkimer. "We are a full-time traveling family (2 kids - 8 & 13) and 2 English Bulldogs. We have a Class A motorhome and flat tow a Jeep. The campground was beautiful and easy to get in and out of. The sites were level and great size with nice spacing in between," shares Jen O. about Turning Stone.
Proximity considerations: Some campgrounds have nearby railways. "The only real negatives would be the proximity to some railroad tracks, which can be somewhat active and very audible in some spots (you'll want to stay towards the south / front of the park if this kind of thing bothers you)," advises Michael O.
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