Betty Brook Camp provides remote dispersed camping along a stream approximately 25 miles northwest of Howes Cave. This primitive site accommodates tent and RV camping with drive-in or walk-in access, though large trailers are not recommended due to limited space. Most visitors report periods of complete solitude interspersed with occasional encounters with other campers. The site features a fire pit and allows alcohol and pets, but lacks drinking water, toilets, or trash facilities.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Equestrian camping near Howes Cave, New York provides access to miles of scenic terrain. At Artisan Hill Farm & Studio, riders can explore surrounding trails with permission. The farm offers basic amenities including drinking water, toilets, and shower facilities for horse owners.
Stream exploration: Visit Betty Brook Camp where campsites sit directly alongside a stream. "You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots," notes Robert B., who has camped there for decades. The location provides natural water access for horses and riders in a setting that's "remote" but accessible from West Kill Road.
Hiking with family: Combine horse camping with day hikes on nearby trails. "The hiking nearby is fantastic. A lot of the hiking nearby is also relatively easy," mentions Jessica W. about trails in the Catskills region. Many paths accommodate both hikers and horses, making them suitable for mixed-activity family outings.
What campers like
Privacy and solitude: The remote nature of Betty Brook Camp appeals to those seeking quiet horse camping. "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," shares Robert B., highlighting the secluded experience available just 25 miles from Howes Cave.
Swimming opportunities: North-South Lake Campground offers equestrians water recreation after trail rides. Lizz H. notes it's "One of my favorite swimming spots. I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time." The large lake provides a cooling option during summer trail riding trips.
Trail connectivity: The regional trail systems connect various horse camping areas. "Awesome access to the Catskill Escarpment trail from here," notes Maribeth W. about North-South Lake. These interconnected trails allow equestrians to plan multi-day riding routes between different camping locations.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Horse camping at Arcadian Pastures Equine requires advance booking. The campground provides fire pits with complimentary firewood and picnic tables, but lacks water hookups or electric service. Riders must bring their own portable corrals or highline equipment.
Seasonal considerations: North-South Lake Campground operates from May 19 to October 22, limiting late fall and winter equestrian camping options. "Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds," advises Tara L., noting that holiday periods significantly impact site availability and trail congestion.
Water access limitations: While Betty Brook Camp offers stream access, Peter notes, "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. It's a small town, with just a gas station store." Riders should plan to bring drinking water for themselves and their horses.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly trail options: When horse camping with children, choose locations with graduated trail difficulties. "North South lake is one of the larger public camp grounds in New York. The sites are well spaced out. Great for families," recommends Tara L. The varied terrain accommodates riders of different experience levels.
Multi-generational experience: Murphy Lake Leanto provides a more adventurous horse camping option for families with older children. "This leanto is worth the effort it takes to get there. And you have to earn it on foot, bike or other," explains Tony F. The remote location rewards families with a more immersive wilderness experience.
Educational opportunities: Horse camping near Howes Cave allows families to combine equestrian activities with historical exploration. "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 always great to see them take the same enjoyment I did," shares Chris D. about creating multi-generational memories.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility limitations: RVers with horse trailers should research campground access carefully. "I would not recommend this for large trailers. The site is fairly small," cautions Peter about Betty Brook Camp. Most equestrian camping near Howes Cave accommodates smaller rigs but presents challenges for larger combinations.
Hookup availability: Country Campsites offers more developed facilities for RVers with horses, including electric hookups, sewer connections, and water hookups. Located approximately 30 miles southeast of Howes Cave, this established campground provides amenities that support longer stays with horses.
Overnight horse management: Equestrian campers using RVs must prepare for overnight horse containment. Most sites near Howes Cave lack permanent corrals, requiring portable fencing systems or highline setups. The unpaved terrain at most locations requires appropriate stabilization equipment for trailers and temporary corrals.
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