Equestrian camping near Newtonville, New York offers access to the eastern foothills of the Adirondack Mountains, where elevations range from 300 to 2,000 feet. The area experiences all four seasons distinctly, with camping typically most popular from May through early October when average daytime temperatures range from 60-85°F. Trail networks in this region feature mixed hardwood forests and connect to broader regional trail systems through state forest lands.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Nearby Luzerne Campground offers designated equestrian areas within reasonable driving distance from Newtonville. "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!" reports Brittnay B.
Swimming and beach access: During summer months, North-South Lake Campground provides lake swimming with designated beach areas. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," notes Lizz H. Most swimming areas open from late June through early September, with typical hours from 10am to 6pm.
Hiking opportunities: The region features trails for all skill levels within a 30-minute drive. "Hiking trails become nice XC skiing trails," notes Amber A. about Moreau Lake State Park. Trails range from easy 1-mile loops to challenging 8+ mile routes with significant elevation gain.
Winter activities: While most horse camping occurs during warmer months, winter transforms many of these same areas into seasonal recreation spaces. "Older camp facilities but well maintained, nice swim at your own risk beach (no guards), boat rentals, good fishing," explains Robert L. about Luzerne, which remains accessible for day use in winter.
What campers like
Private camping spots: Moreau Lake State Park Campground offers secluded sites for those seeking privacy. "Campsites are spacious, shady, and had good separation between the neighboring sites which we enjoyed," notes Nancy W. Sites typically measure 30-40 feet in depth, accommodating standard equipment with room for horses to be secured nearby.
Trail access variety: Equestrian campers appreciate direct connections to different terrain types. "Great location! Small state run campground in the SE Adirondacks- plenty to do: tubing and white water rafting (spring) great hikes, horseback riding, canoe/kayaking," reports Troy H. about the regional offerings near Luzerne.
Consistent water access: Betty Brook Camp offers stream-side camping. "You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots," explains Robert B. Water access points allow for both recreation and horse watering needs without long walks from campsites.
Clean facilities: Where facilities exist, campers report good maintenance. "The showers are so nice and private and clean," notes Antoinette W. about facilities at Luzerne. This contrasts with more primitive locations where pack-in/pack-out procedures are required.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Unlike Arcadian Pastures, other nearby camping requires advance planning. "Reserve very early for waterfront," advises Rachel G. about North-South Lake, highlighting competition for prime sites during peak season from June through August.
Variable facility quality: Murphy Lake Leanto represents the more primitive end of the spectrum. "This leanto is worth the effort it takes to get there. And you have to earn it on foot, bike or other," explains Tony F. Site accessibility varies significantly across the region, with some requiring 4WD or high-clearance vehicles.
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns affect trail conditions significantly. "Weather conditions can affect trail access during spring thaw and after heavy rains," applies to most locations in the region, not just Arcadian Pastures.
Site selection tips: Look beyond waterfront. "I live near this campground. I'm about a mile away and I pass it every day. It is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road," notes Peter about Betty Brook Camp, highlighting that roadside sites may offer better trailer access than more secluded options.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Country Campsites and similar established campgrounds offer family-friendly amenities not found at equestrian-specific sites. "Large family friendly campground with all the amenities - boating, showers, great hiking," explains Becky G. about North-South Lake, which provides facilities within 45 minutes of Newtonville.
Swimming options: Supervised swimming areas offer safer alternatives for children. "Clean and well run campground with beautiful lakes and surrounded by trails. perfect Hudson getaway," explains Rachel G. Most designated swimming areas have weekend lifeguard supervision between 11am-5pm.
Multi-generational appeal: Some locations bridge different camping experiences. "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," shares Chris D.
Emergency services access: When camping with children, note proximity to medical facilities. Most established campgrounds maintain first aid stations, while primitive sites may be 30+ minutes from emergency services.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many equestrian camping areas lack formally leveled pads. "The sites are shady and close together, but still feel fairly private," notes Harry H. about camping south of the Adirondacks. RVers should bring leveling blocks for potentially uneven terrain.
Limited hookup availability: Prepare for dry camping at most horse-friendly locations. "This is dry camping so there are no hook-ups but there are restrooms and shower," explains Nancy W. Water tank capacity becomes especially important when supplying both human and equine needs.
Access road conditions: Approach routes may challenge larger rigs. "I would not recommend this for large trailers. The site is fairly small, but it's in state park, and there's tons of walking that can be done," advises Peter about Betty Brook Camp. Measure total length including horse trailer before booking.
Dump station locations: Plan waste management carefully, as many sites lack sanitary stations. Travel with tank capacity to last your entire stay or research public dump stations in advance.
