Stokes State Forest provides designated equestrian camping spaces within several established campgrounds near Montgomery, New York. The forest's trail system connects to approximately 63 miles of marked paths with varied terrain suitable for both beginner and experienced riders. Many sites can accommodate horse trailers alongside camping equipment, with water access available for horses after rides. The forest enforces strict food storage regulations due to active bear populations in the region, and campsites typically require reservations several months in advance during peak seasons.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: North-South Lake Campground offers numerous interconnected hiking paths with varying difficulty levels. "A lot of the hiking nearby is also relatively easy and includes the newly opened (as of 2016) viewing platform for Kaasterskill falls, which is minutes down the road from the campground," notes Jessica W., highlighting the family-friendly nature of many trails.
Swimming in natural settings: The clear water features attract many campers to North-South Lake Campground. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," explains Lizz H. The swimming areas are well-maintained with defined boundaries for safety.
Fishing opportunities: Ocquittunk area provides fishing access along both lakeshores and stream areas. "Enjoyed some fishing and hiking within walking distance from the site," reports Vito M., indicating the convenience of accessing fishing spots directly from campsites without requiring transportation.
What campers like
Spacious site layouts: Sites at Lake Ocquittunk feature platforms large enough for multiple tents. "We stayed at site #T007... The site itself is huge and we were able to position our tent facing the lake, it was beautiful!" shares Kara L., highlighting the generous sizing that allows for strategic tent placement.
Clean facilities: Bathrooms and shower facilities receive regular maintenance. "The bathrooms are clean and nicely placed. The sites had a fire ring with a cooking grate and a picnic table and were well spaced out from other sites," reports Catherine S., noting the practical amenities that enhance comfort during extended stays.
Cabin accommodations: For those seeking alternatives to tent camping at Stokes State Forest, heated cabins provide cold-weather options. "The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic. The interior features are just what you'd expect for getting away for the weekend," explains W L., detailing the wood stove heating system that requires approximately 2-3 bundles of wood per night during colder months.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Proper food storage is mandatory in all horse campgrounds near Montgomery, New York. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes," warns Trip Over Life, emphasizing the need to bring appropriate storage containers.
Seasonal considerations: Campgrounds operate with different availability windows. "We went to Stokes for a one nighter to test out my new truck tent. While making reservations it said almost all sites were full but upon arrival the vast majority of sites were empty which made for a quiet/relaxing night," shares Josh S., suggesting that early or late season visits may offer more solitude.
Water access variations: Not all lakes meet visitor expectations. "The 'lake' however, was kind of a disappointment. It was much smaller then I expected and a rather underwhelming," states Ethan K., indicating the importance of researching specific water features before booking water-adjacent sites.
Tips for camping with families
Covered picnic areas: During inclement weather or for sun protection, community shelters provide gathering spaces. "One big positive was the covered picnic area which was a nice place to bring food and eat and hang out during the day to get out of the sun," explains Ethan K., highlighting facilities beyond individual campsites.
Kid-friendly swimming: The lakes offer shallow entry points with gradual depth changes. "Clear streams and lake. Stunning overall. Lake Ocquittunk campground had showers, flush toilets and was popular with families," shares Stephanie T., noting amenities that make the area suitable for children.
Educational activities: Historical sites near campgrounds provide learning opportunities. "This visit we hiked the Tillman Ravine trail (tip: make the trail a loop and visit both the ravine and the nearby old cemetery)," suggests Trip Over Life, offering specific routes that combine natural features with historical elements.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: RV access varies significantly between loops and campgrounds. "We stayed at the campsite at Lake Ocquittunk Area. Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents," notes E. M. V., indicating sites that accommodate both tents and vehicles.
Hookup availability: Most equestrian-friendly campgrounds offer limited or no hookups. "It is the smallest of the campgrounds with 27 sites only suitable for tents or small trailers/campervans," explains Trip Over Life about the Steam Mill area specifically, highlighting the importance of size considerations when selecting sites for trailers or RVs.
