Frontier Town Campground in North Hudson provides dedicated facilities for equestrian camping within the Adirondack region. Located approximately 22 miles from Lewis, this campground offers specialized sites designed for horse owners. The equestrian loop features 50-amp electric hookups and ample space for trailers, while non-equestrian camping areas provide alternatives for regular tent and RV campers seeking access to surrounding trail systems.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Riders can access surrounding Adirondack trail systems directly from Frontier Town Campground. Charles K. notes it serves as "a great home base to explore from the Lake George region to Ticonderoga to day hikes or cycling." The location provides strategic access to various riding paths throughout the region.
Swimming at Lake Dunmore: Branbury State Park Campground offers lake access with "a wonderful beach with a swimming area and boat launch." According to Lisa S., "Large trees provide shade on a grassy lawn, and grills are available." The beach area is included with campground stays.
Hiking nearby mountains: Numerous hiking trails surround the camping areas. As Stephen T. mentions about Branbury, "I've been here dozens of times, grew up going here every year and hiking rattlesnake." Many trails accommodate both hikers and equestrians with varying difficulty levels suitable for different experience levels.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance at horse-friendly campgrounds near Lewis. Chelsea B. says of Frontier Town, "The bathrooms are the cleanest I've seen so far and we do this full time." This attention to cleanliness extends to the campground grounds and common areas.
Spacious sites: AuSable Chasm Campground offers generous camping spots. Heather M. reports, "The site we had was quite large, I had booked an end site (#73) hoping it would be big!" Similarly at Frontier Town, Butch K. notes his site "was long enough it could have fit two of the biggest RVs I have ever seen."
Natural surroundings: The old-growth forest setting creates a rustic camping experience. Charles K. calls Frontier Town "Best rustic camping in Adirondacks." Sites on the west side of the road receive better morning sun, particularly beneficial for drying riding gear after morning dew.
What you should know
Bug protection essential: Insect activity can be significant, particularly during early summer months. Butch K. warns about Frontier Town: "I ended up with two lower legs and two forearms that constantly itch like mad. I will never go back in June." Proper insect repellent for both riders and horses is strongly recommended.
Wildlife awareness: Proper food storage is necessary when camping in this region. Nicole E. cautions about Branbury State Park, "Just make sure you put your food and trash away- there are black bears in the area!" Lisa S. confirms, "There are bears in the area, so be aware and store all food properly."
Site selection considerations: At Frontier Town, Sheri C. points out that "Sites are built wrong so it is hard to get your camper into your site correct." Requesting specific sites based on your camping setup can avoid positioning challenges, especially for larger rigs or those with horse trailers.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Many campgrounds in the Lewis region offer recreation areas for children. Larry mentions that at AuSable Chasm Campground, they have a "playground kids loved it" along with a clean pool. These amenities provide entertainment options when not out riding trails.
Nature activities: Branbury State Park Campground offers educational opportunities through its nature center. J L. shares, "Theres a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground. Volleyball and horseshoe pits."
Water recreation options: Beyond horseback riding, families can enjoy water activities. J L. notes Branbury offers "Fishing, kayak, canoe, paddle boat and paddle board rentals," providing alternative activities for family members who might not ride horses.
Tips from RVers
Connectivity for remote work: Chelsea B. advises that at Frontier Town, the equestrian camping area is "really open with little tree cover which is perfect for those who work remote using Starlink. We had fantastic connection." This makes it suitable for digital nomads needing to stay connected while enjoying horse camping.
Supply planning required: The remote nature of some horse campgrounds requires advance preparation. Chelsea B. warns, "Get your supplies before you arrive! Not many places around to quickly grab charcoal if you need it." Stock up on essentials for both human campers and equine companions before arrival.