Horseback riding enthusiasts can find dedicated equestrian camping facilities in the forests and rural landscapes surrounding Kinderhook, New York. The area features both established campgrounds designed for horse camping and more secluded dispersed sites accessible by trailer. Most equestrian-friendly camping locations connect directly to riding trails that traverse the rolling terrain characteristic of this part of the Catskill region.
What to do
Trail riding access: Betty Brook Camp provides direct access to natural riding trails suitable for longer equestrian excursions. According to camper Robert B., "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."
Swimming opportunities: North-South Lake Campground offers swimming areas for both humans and horses during warmer months. Lizz H. notes, "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time." The location features two connected lakes with designated swimming beaches.
Hiking exploration: Several trails surrounding North-South Lake Campground connect to notable Catskill landmarks. Jessica W. shares, "The hiking nearby is also relatively easy and includes the newly opened (as of 2016) viewing platform for Kaasterskill falls, which is minutes down the road from the campground."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Maintained bathroom facilities receive positive mentions from campers at established sites. Eliany L. reports about North-South Lake Campground, "Great restrooms cleaned every morning staff was very friendly, awesome!! This campground has many different size sites big enough for groups and small for just single."
Waterfront access: Stream and lake frontage enhances the camping experience at several locations. Robert B. notes about Betty Brook Camp, "You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots." This water access provides natural drinking sources for horses at appropriate sites.
Varied site options: The equestrian camping areas near Kinderhook provide different levels of development and seclusion. Rachel G. recommends about North-South Lake, "Clean and well run campground with beautiful lakes and surrounded by trails. Perfect Hudson getaway. Reserve very early for waterfront."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Some equestrian camping locations require advance booking, particularly during peak seasons. This applies especially to waterfront sites at more developed campgrounds.
Location remoteness: The distance from services varies significantly between sites. Peter mentions about Betty Brook Camp, "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."
Site size limitations: Not all locations accommodate larger trailers or rigs. Peter cautions about Betty Brook Camp, "I would not recommend this for large trailers. The site is fairly small, but it's in state park, and there's tons of walking that can be done."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Families report success with combining horseback activities with traditional camping recreation. Chris D. shares about North-South Lake Campground, "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 great to see them take the same enjoyment I did. Camping, swimming, hiking, boating, biking, this place has it all."
Amenity expectations: Prepare children for varying levels of facilities at different equestrian camping locations. Some offer full amenities while others provide minimal services.
Educational opportunities: The natural areas surrounding equestrian camping sites offer learning experiences. Becky G. notes, "Large family friendly campground with all the amenities - boating, showers, great hiking."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Horse trailer access varies significantly between camping areas. At Country Campsites, standard RV hookups are available, though reviews indicate limited accessibility for larger rigs.
Seasonal considerations: The camping season for equestrian sites near Kinderhook typically runs from May through October, with North-South Lake Campground operating "from May 19 to October 22." Plan accordingly as many facilities close during winter months.
Utility connections: When selecting an equestrian camping site with an RV, verify the available hookups. North-South Lake provides electric hookups, sewer connections, and water hookups suitable for moderate-sized RVs with horse trailers.
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