Arcadian Pastures Equine offers primitive camping options for horse owners in eastern New York, approximately 32 miles from Latham. The area sits within the transition zone between the Mohawk Valley and northern Catskills, with elevations ranging from 750 to 1,200 feet. Camping facilities operate from late May through early October, with seasonal closures during periods of heavy rainfall when pastures become saturated.
What to do
Trail riding networks: Several informal trail systems connect to Arcadian Pastures through agricultural lands and woodland areas. At North-South Lake Campground, campers can access the Catskill Escarpment trail system. According to Maribeth W., the area provides "awesome access to the Catskill Escaprment trail from here," making it an excellent basecamp for extended riding excursions.
Swimming options: Campsites near water bodies offer additional recreation during hot summer days. Lizz H. notes about North-South Lake, "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time." Most swimming areas maintain seasonal hours between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends.
Fishing opportunities: Luzerne Campground provides access to productive fishing waters. Robert L. describes it as having "nice swim at your own risk beach (no guards), boat rentals, good fishing." The small lakes and streams throughout the region contain populations of bass, trout, and panfish.
What campers like
Private sites: Many equestrian campers appreciate space between camping areas. At Moreau Lake State Park Campground, Nancy K. notes, "Nicely treed sites and cabins with a pretty lake. Hiking, biking, swimming, boat/canoe/paddleboard rentals." The natural screening between sites provides privacy while camping with horses.
Clean facilities: Maintained bathroom and shower buildings rank high among camper preferences. According to Jessica W., North-South Lake has "staff is friendly and knowledgeable, bathrooms & beach areas are always clean, & the hiking nearby is fantastic." Basic maintenance schedules typically include daily cleaning of shared facilities.
Proximity to supplies: Local stores near camping areas provide convenience for forgotten items. Emily B. comments about Betty Brook Camp, "It was nice to have a little country store right across the street from the entrance of the campground. They had anything and everything you might need or had forgotten!" Most equestrian campers still need to bring specialized equipment for horses.
What you should know
Horse containment requirements: While Arcadian Pastures offers open grazing areas, most campgrounds require specific equipment for horses. Brittnay B. notes that Luzerne is "the only campground in all of New York that acquires to house back riders. There are campsites that also come with stalls for your horse!" Always confirm horse facilities before arrival.
Reservation policies: Most established campgrounds near Latham require advance bookings, especially during peak summer months. At Murphy Lake Leanto, Tony F. cautions the site requires effort to reach: "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." Dispersed camping areas may have different regulations.
Seasonal availability: Weather conditions impact camping viability, particularly for equestrian sites where ground conditions matter. Robert B. comments about Betty Brook Camp, "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." Most horse-friendly campgrounds limit operations to dry ground months.
Tips for camping with families
Choose developed campgrounds: Families benefit from campgrounds with established amenities. About Moreau Lake State Park, Amber A. advises, "Very wooded. Hiking trails become nice XC skiing trails. Nice sandy beach with lifeguard hours. Facilities are relatively modern but still basic, nice and clean." Sites with restrooms and water access provide greater comfort for younger campers.
Consider activities beyond riding: When planning equestrian camping near Latham, include non-riding activities. Antoinette W. says about Luzerne Campground, "We get our site close to the lake so we can walk down and swim and my husband fishes. The showers are so nice and private and clean. Love that we can rent boats too." Diversified recreation options keep non-riders engaged.
Pack for variable weather: The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations, particularly in spring and fall. Nancy W. shares about Moreau Lake State Park: "The snack bar and gift/supplies shop at the sandy beach area were not open as we were there late in the season. There is also a nice playground for kids to enjoy." Evening temperatures can drop significantly even in summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility considerations: RV campers should research accessibility before booking equestrian camping near Latham. Nancy W. notes about Moreau Lake State Park, "The road to our campsite was paved and in good shape but there were a few tight spots because of the trees that make it tricky for a big rig (Loop A seems to be the best for big-rigs)." Measure trailer dimensions against campground clearances when bringing horses.
Generator restrictions: Many campgrounds limit generator usage to protect natural soundscapes. About Moreau Lake, Nancy W. adds, "Generators are allowed but not too many people were using them. The few other campers around that used them were mindful of quiet hours." Always verify generator policies when planning power needs for extended stays with horses.
Dump station availability: For extended equestrian camping trips, confirm waste disposal options. Troy H. recommends Luzerne Campground for its strategic location: "Small state run campground in the SE Adirondacks- plenty to do: tubing and white water rafting (spring) great hikes, horseback riding, canoe/kayaking, zip lines, great local food and breweries in the area." Most established campgrounds offer dump stations, though primitive horse camping areas typically lack these facilities.
