Equestrian camping near Martinsburg, New York offers access to the western edge of the Adirondack Mountains where elevation ranges from 800-2,000 feet. Trails wind through mixed hardwood forests with seasonal stream crossings. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F during the day, dropping to 50-60°F at night, creating comfortable riding conditions except during peak bug season.
What to do
Kayaking on Limekiln Lake: Rent watercraft directly from the campground with self-service options. "The campground management provides kayak and canoes with reasonable prices and very laidback about it which is kinda nice, you pay at the enterance and go to the beach and grab your kayak, self service," notes Murat H. from Limekiln Lake Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: Minimal light pollution in the Adirondacks creates excellent night sky viewing conditions. "We had site 270, which was close enough to walk down to the boat launch at night to look at the stars (and the Milky Way!)," shares Lena L. The Villages RV Park offers similar viewing opportunities with one camper noting, "My favorite time to come is August during the meteor showers."
Casino entertainment: Horse owners looking for evening entertainment after trail rides can take advantage of shuttle service. "24 hour shuttles to the casino 5 minutes away, yet quiet and beautifully maintained," reports April L. from The Villages RV Park, making it convenient for equestrians seeking evening entertainment after a day on horseback.
What campers like
Clean lake access: Riders appreciate the opportunity to cool off after trail rides. "Very very clean water you can see the bottom. I have been to multiple lakes in Adirondack, you may confirm one of the cleanests. The water temperature was very reasonable," writes Murat H. about Limekiln Lake Campground.
Site privacy: Equestrian campers value separation between sites when handling horses. "Our site was spacious, with room for two cars, 4 kayaks, and two tents. Behind the site is wooded forest, and the campsites on either side are far enough away to feel secluded," explains Lena L.
Convenient amenities: The Villages RV Park offers excellent facilities for those traveling with horses. "Offers a pool, playground, hiking trail, fishing pond, paddleboat rentals, camp store, very clean bath houses throughout, maintained sites, fire rings at each site," says April L. from The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone.
What you should know
Bear precautions: Horse campers need to secure both human and equine food properly. "There is a box to keep your garbage or food from the black bears which was nice," mentions Murat H. Another camper adds, "There is a minor bear problem but they didn't do much besides sniff around. Rangers were always right on top of things when one would wonder around."
Insect conditions: Plan equestrian activities accordingly to avoid peak bug season. "The flies are actually pretty horrible- not sure if it's a late year for them or if they're just particularly bad this year, but they were relentless," warns Lena L. from Limekiln Lake Campground. Another rider confirms, "Black flies are brutal in end of May beginning of June."
Garbage policies: Strict garbage protocols apply at equestrian camping areas. "The campground is very strict about the garbage though, which can be a problem because there are no garbage dumpsters all over the camp it is only at the entrance, which means better keep your garbage bags clean not punched, torn or anything," cautions Murat H.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly biking: Children can safely explore while adults tend to horses. "Really nice park kids got to ride their bikes everywhere with minimal traffic," shares Jynee Z., making Limekiln an excellent choice for equestrian families with children.
Water recreation options: Families appreciate cooling off after trail rides. "There's a lot to explore out on the kayaks. If we had had more energy, we would've loved to bring the kayaks out at night to look at the stars," mentions Lena L. from Limekiln Lake Campground.
Scheduled activities: The Villages offers organized recreation beyond riding. "Offers a pool, playground, hiking trail, fishing pond, paddleboat rentals," notes April L. Another camper adds, "There is the casino, dining, golf course and more near by," providing entertainment options for non-riding family members.
Tips from RVers
Level, paved sites: Horse trailer owners benefit from solid parking surfaces. "All sites are full hookups (i think) and paved. Definitely geared towards the RV or trailer crowd," notes Michael O. from The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone.
Pull-through access: Equestrian rigs appreciate easy entry/exit options. "We scheduled a pull through for 1 night last minute due to an unexpected change in plans. The sites were level and great size with nice spacing in between. The campground was beautiful and easy to get in and out of," confirms Jen O., who travels with a Class A motorhome and towed vehicle.
Spacious parking areas: Horse trailer accommodation is essential for equestrian campers. "Very well thought out. All sites are full hookups and paved," notes one RVer, while another adds, "Spacious FHU sites. Pull thru and back ins," making The Villages particularly suitable for those bringing horses.
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