Horse camping opportunities are limited within the immediate Lakeview, New York area. Though equestrian facilities aren't available at nearby campgrounds, travelers can find several camping options with other amenities. Located within 50 miles of Lakeview, campgrounds like Liberty Harbor RV Park and Turkey Swamp Park provide camping alternatives for those without horses. These campgrounds offer varying levels of amenities ranging from primitive tent sites to full RV hookups.
What to do
Fishing and boating: Turkey Swamp Park offers a lake with fishing opportunities and boat rentals. "There is a lake with a boat dock and a small boardwalk. Kayaking/Canoeing, fishing, and swimming. In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," notes Lee D. from Turkey Swamp Park.
Hiking trails: While not horse-friendly, the area offers several walking trails. "Several short (longest one is 2.5 miles) hiking trails that are fairly well-marked but can be a bit confusing at times. Some sections of the trails were muddy due to swamps and bogs but passable," according to a Turkey Swamp Park visitor.
City exploration: For urban adventures, Liberty Harbor RV Park provides access to New York City. "There is a ferry 100-yards away that takes you to Wall Street M-F. There is a great market about 1/4 of a mile away, and the path that can take you to WTC or 33rd Street area is only a mile away," shares Shawn B. from Liberty Harbor RV Park.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: At Turkey Swamp Park, campers appreciate the site layout. "Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy. A lantern hook, picnic table, and fire ring complete each site," reports Lee D.
Park amenities: Many campgrounds near Lakeview compensate for the lack of equestrian facilities with other features. "Turkey Swamp is a great spot, a lot of different things to do. Fishing, Tent Camp, Van Camping, Open Field, BBQ, Kayaking, Canoeing. The list goes on," says Tylen L. from Turkey Swamp Park.
Winter camping options: Some area campgrounds remain open year-round. "We found this campground one night when we were in NJ. It ended up snowing that night. the bathrooms were clean and warm. There is a lot to do in the area," shares Lisa S. about Allaire State Park.
What you should know
Tick awareness: Some campgrounds report significant tick issues. "I was so excited when we got here. The sites are spacious and it's really beautiful. But by the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2," warns LAURA Y. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Urban camping realities: Liberty Harbor isn't a traditional natural setting. "The 'campground' is nothing special. Literally a parking lot with water & electric hookups. Larger rigs will barely have a yard. And don't bet on a private picnic table," explains Ericka T.
Roadway noise: Some campsites experience traffic sounds. "Tent camped July 1st. Clean bathrooms. Sites are a little too close together. Noisy with highway traffic. Well maintained though," reports Justin S. about Allaire State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Family-friendly amenities are available at certain sites. "There is a centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door," explains Dan W. from Turkey Swamp Park.
Bug preparation: Parents should prepare for insects, though experiences vary. "We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. We were worried about bugs, but we didn't even use mosquito repellent and didn't get a single bite! The campground was super clean too," shares JAEWOOK P. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Educational opportunities: Historical features provide learning experiences. "Working village and antique train are available most of the year. There are also lots of festivals throughout the summer months," mentions Beau B. about Allaire State Park.
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: Choose strategic parking at urban sites. "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig," advises Keith and Tia S. about Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Hookup planning: Water connections may require extra equipment. "Nicely wooded with water and electric. Be sure to bring extra hose because the water spigot is a distance from the electric," suggests Jean T. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have terrain limitations. "As soon as you turn off the main road to the park, all roads are dirt, which was a bit surprising. They were well-maintained and in dry weather, not a problem, but probably not if it was rainy," notes Lee D. regarding Turkey Swamp Park.