Equestrian camping options near Livingston Manor, New York offer access to forested trails through the Catskill Mountains. The region sits at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 4,000 feet with a climate that features warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Campgrounds with horse facilities typically operate from May through October, with some offering electric hookups and water access for equestrian campers.
What to do
Trail riding exploration: At Bear Spring Mountain — DEC, riders can access extensive wilderness. "Nothing but woods all around! Endless hiking and beautiful steams - you can drink straight from the pipes!" reports Kimberly S. The 6,400-acre area provides multiple trail options for horseback riding.
Fishing opportunities: Campgrounds near water bodies allow for fishing breaks between rides. "Launt Pond was nice for fishing," notes Becky S. from Bear Spring Mountain. Local streams also provide fishing spots, with one camper mentioning, "I set up a hammock and a 1 person tent... there's room for a camper but sparse" at Ocquittunk while fishing nearby.
Hiking with four-legged friends: Many equestrian campgrounds permit dogs, expanding recreation options. At Stokes State Forest, Catherine S. appreciates that "the sites had a fire ring with a cooking grate and a picnic table and were well spaced out from other sites." Trails accommodate both horses and hikers, allowing for varied outdoor activities.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Horse camping areas often feature secluded spots. "Clean, private, and quiet! We had a blast!!" shares Amanda P. about Bear Spring Mountain — DEC. The forest setting creates natural buffers between campsites.
Peaceful lakeside locations: Many equestrian-friendly campgrounds include water access. "We stayed at site #T007... The site itself is huge and we were able to position our tent facing the lake, it was beautiful!" explains Kara L. about her stay at Lake Ocquittunk. These waterfront sites provide scenic views and natural water sources for horses.
Well-maintained facilities: Even in horse-focused campgrounds, amenities receive attention. At Pickerel Point Campground, Kelly F. found "amazing views of the water from our camper. The trails were beautiful, recommend little falls trail. The bathrooms were clean with nice hot showers." Clean facilities enhance the equestrian camping experience.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Mountain elevations create variable conditions. One camper at Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area notes: "~3 hour drive from NYC, and a wonderful campsite with good weather in the summer - not too hot during the day and nice and cool overnight." Pack layers for temperature shifts, especially for spring and fall rides.
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons, horse campgrounds fill quickly. "We stayed in Lower Lake Beechwood site 323. Was decent site only downside was fire pit area was very un-level for camping chairs, otherwise it's a nice wooded site with privacy," explains Dawn R. Reserve sites well ahead for summer weekends and holidays.
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity requires proper food storage in equestrian camping areas. One Bear Spring Mountain camper advises: "Obey bear rules!" Secure feed and food in vehicles or bear-resistant containers, especially important when camping with horses.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Many horse campgrounds feature additional recreation options. At North-South Lake Campground, Chris D. shares, "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."
Beginner-friendly trails: Look for shorter, gentler paths for young riders. "Cute and friendly campground by Launt pond :) We were there in May and there were plenty of empty sites so it was nice and quiet," notes Mayra D. about Bear Spring Mountain, which offers trails suitable for various skill levels.
Safety considerations: Keep children supervised near horses and water. One Pickerel Point camper mentions: "We stay at Pickerel Point and Deerfield depending on season. No complaints and was pleasantly surprised they have programs for kids. Can never go wrong here."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: Choose spaces with adequate room for vehicles and trailers. David S. from Lower Lake Campground Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area shares: "We have camped here in tents and with our teardrop trailer. All of our experiences have been good. Clean bathrooms are essential and even when the large campground is full the bathrooms have been clean."
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary across horse campgrounds. "We had full hookups (20/30/50 amp, water & sewer). There's no cable but we were able to pickup about 6 channels with our digital antenna," notes Debbie W. about her stay at Pickerel Point, highlighting the available amenities.
Leveling challenges: Some equestrian sites present leveling difficulties. "The sites were well spaced out. Short walk to bathrooms, showers and lake," reports one RVer, though adding that preparation for uneven terrain is necessary when camping with horses and larger vehicles.
Legend
