Charles E. Baker State Forest offers primitive horse-camping opportunities in central New York. The forest contains multiple sites accessible via dirt roads where equestrians can set up camp with their horses. Located in rolling hills at approximately 1,200 feet elevation, the area experiences cold winters with significant snowfall and mild summers suitable for trail riding. The forest terrain varies between hardwood stands and open meadows.
What to do
Trail riding access: Explore the extensive trail network at Charles E. Baker State Forest, where riders can find miles of marked paths through varied terrain. "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," notes Matt A.
Fishing opportunities: Visit local water features including ponds within the state forest boundaries. "Water access at a lovely nearby pond," mentions Cameron, a camper at Charles E. Baker State Forest.
Visit nearby attractions: Campers staying at The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone can take advantage of proximity to entertainment. "We also took a drive to the University of Syracuse to tour the campus," shares Jen O. The location provides convenient access to both natural areas and cultural attractions.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Betty Brook Camp provides remote streamside camping that appeals to those seeking solitude. "Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people. You camp on the stream," explains Robert B., a regular visitor.
Overnight horse camping: Horseback riders appreciate the ability to camp with their horses in designated areas throughout the region. "There are official camp spots with water access which are also free to use," reports a Charles E. Baker visitor, highlighting accessible amenities.
Natural surroundings: Many equestrian campsites in the Jordanville area feature scenic surroundings with minimal development. "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," describes Peter, a local familiar with Betty Brook Camp.
What you should know
Access challenges: Reaching some equestrian camping areas requires advance planning and appropriate vehicles. At Murphy Lake Leanto, Tony F. reports: "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."
Limited facilities: Most equestrian camping sites near Jordanville operate with minimal amenities. "The site is fairly small, but it's in state park, and there's tons of walking that can be done," notes a Betty Brook Camp reviewer, highlighting the trade-offs of remote camping.
Weather considerations: Weather patterns affect trail conditions throughout the region. A Murphy Lake visitor warns to "be prepared to go over downfalls. The area is maintained, but wind happens in the old growth forest."
Tips for camping with families
Select appropriate sites: For families with horses, choose camping areas that can accommodate children and animals safely. "It's a small town, with just a gas station store. I would not recommend this for large trailers," advises Peter about the Betty Brook area.
Plan for entertainment: The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone offers family-friendly amenities near Jordanville. "Offers a pool, playground, hiking trail, fishing pond, paddleboat rentals, camp store, very clean bath houses throughout," shares April L., making it suitable for families with varied interests.
Consider campground layout: Site selection impacts family camping experience. Michael O. advises about Turning Stone: "Some sites aren't that close to a bath house, so if you're not planning on duecing in your box, you might be looking at a longer walk than others based on where your site is."
Tips from RVers
Horse trailer limitations: When bringing horse trailers, assess site accessibility and size restrictions. Betty Brook Camp accommodates "small trailers," but larger rigs may have difficulty navigating the narrow access roads.
Full hookup options: For RVers requiring amenities, The Villages at Turning Stone offers complete services near the Jordanville area. "Spacious FHU sites. Pull thru and back ins," notes Boomer B., while Keri adds that "sites are spacious, lots to do for kids, facilities are new and clean."
Road conditions: Access to equestrian camping often involves unpaved roads. A Charles E. Baker visitor notes the "access at the end of a long, but well maintained, dirt road," indicating passable conditions for appropriate vehicles.
