The Charles E. Baker State Forest provides primitive camping options near Pine Hill, with access for horses on its trail system. This free camping area features fire pits and picnic tables at designated sites, while also allowing dispersed camping throughout the forest. Though the forest lacks dedicated horse corrals or permanent equestrian facilities, riders can utilize the extensive network of multi-use trails that accommodate horseback riding. The campground remains relatively secluded, accessed via a long but well-maintained dirt road, offering a quiet experience even during peak seasons.
Trail riders can explore miles of forest trails throughout the Baker State Forest property, with opportunities to connect to broader regional trail systems. The forest features a lovely pond for water access, though campers should note there are no toilets, potable water sources, or electrical hookups available. Horse owners should bring portable containment systems as no permanent tie-outs exist. Camping with horses here requires self-sufficiency, including carrying in water for animals and packing out manure. The primitive nature of this forest camping provides an experience similar to backcountry camping but with vehicle accessibility, making it suitable for those seeking a more rustic equestrian camping option without having to backpack far into remote areas.
"For activities, there are some great hikes around the campground, as well as excellent playgrounds, fishing, an awesome pool, and of course, free shuttle rides to the Turning Stone Casino right up the"
"Pool and walking paths were well kept. Dog waste stations were available but the park didn't have a dog park. Bummer for fino."
from $65 - $75 / night
"Only found one designated campsite, which was available, but there’s a lot of good space for dispersed camping right nearby. Access at the end of a long, but well maintained, dirt road."
"Beautiful forest with miles of trails. I found this spot passing through on my bike and had no problem pitching a tent in a secluded spot in the woods."
ScoutSpace was adequate with both shade and some sun, trash service and shuttle service was a plus . Pool and walking paths were well kept. Dog waste stations were available but the park didn't have a dog park. Bummer for fino.
GuideThe property is beautiful and quiet. Cute market at check in. Plenty to do. Neighbors keep to themselves and kind of stare le us down when we pulled in and during dog walks…maybe just an outlier experience? Staff very kind. We just stayed one night so we were an easy in and out. Super buggy.
GuideTurning Stone is well maintained with nice sites. Memorial day weekend the weather is beautiful spring weather. All full hook up sites from full sun to full shade. Been coming here for 25 + years. There is the casino, dining, golf course and more near by.
GuideWe scheduled a pull through for 1 night last minute due to an unexpected change in plans. We are a full-time traveling family (2 kids - 8 & 13) and 2 English Bulldogs. We have a Class A motorhome and flat tow a Jeep. The campground was beautiful and easy to get in and out of. The sites were level and great size with nice spacing in between. The location was nice too! We did head over to the casino briefly and enjoyed that. We also took a drive to the University of Syracuse to tour the campus. Clean and wonderful park. Would definitely recommend.
TravelerVery pleasant and knowledgeable staff, well maintained and pleasantly arranged spaces. There ere a lot of campers set up when we were there but we never felt crowded.
TravelerWe were very pleased with the knowledgeable and friendly staff, we had no problem getting a nice paved spot for our 34' class A, and they even provided a small treat for our Schnauzer.
GuideCamped here on a Thursday night in late September. Only found one designated campsite, which was available, but there’s a lot of good space for dispersed camping right nearby. Access at the end of a long, but well maintained, dirt road. Campsite consists of a fire pit and picnic table. Some litter, not too bad. No toilets. Bugs aren’t an issue. Water access at a lovely nearby pond. Highly recommended. Only giving 4 stars because the best free sites have water pumps and vault toilets, but this is a great camping experience
GuideSitesare spacious, lots to do for kids, facilities are new and clean.
TravelerBeautiful forest with miles of trails. I found this spot passing through on my bike and had no problem pitching a tent in a secluded spot in the woods. There are official camp spots with water access which are also free to use. Highly recommend!
Charles E. Baker State Forest provides free primitive camping opportunities near Pine Hill, New York, situated in the western Catskill Mountains at approximately 2,500 feet elevation. The forest terrain features mixed hardwood stands interspersed with conifer plantations typical of New York state forests. Winter camping access becomes limited due to seasonal road closures, with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing from November through March.
Trail riding exploration: Horseback riders can connect to the broader regional trail system that extends beyond Baker State Forest. Riders at Charles E. Baker State Forest report "Beautiful forest with miles of trails" where you can enjoy secluded riding through diverse woodland settings.
Fishing access: The pond within Baker State Forest offers water access for anglers and small watercraft. According to a camper, "Water access at a lovely nearby pond" makes this location suitable for combining camping with fishing activities during warmer months.
Seasonal meteor viewing: August presents prime stargazing opportunities in the Pine Hill area. The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone, located within driving distance of Pine Hill, has campers noting "My favorite time to come is August during the meteor showers" due to minimal light pollution in the region.
Secluded camping spots: The Baker State Forest area offers significant privacy even during peak seasons. A visitor mentioned "I found this spot passing through on my bike and had no problem pitching a tent in a secluded spot in the woods" highlighting the availability of dispersed camping options beyond designated sites.
Well-maintained access roads: Despite its remote location, Baker State Forest remains accessible for most vehicles. One camper noted the site was "Access at the end of a long, but well-maintained, dirt road" which allows for easier transport of camping and horse equipment.
Seasonal variety: The The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone offers a contrast to primitive camping with full amenities during spring and fall seasons. A regular visitor mentioned "Memorial day weekend the weather is beautiful spring weather" making it an option for horse owners seeking more developed facilities within driving distance of Pine Hill.
Limited facilities: Baker State Forest lacks basic amenities found at developed campgrounds. A camper observed "No toilets. Bugs aren't an issue" and "Only giving 4 stars because the best free sites have water pumps and vault toilets" indicating campers should prepare for true primitive conditions.
Seasonal considerations: The Pine Hill area experiences significant seasonal changes affecting camping conditions. Winter brings heavy snowfall that may block forest road access, while spring often brings muddy conditions that can make horse trails challenging.
Waste management: When camping with horses near Pine Hill, manure management becomes your responsibility. There are no designated disposal facilities, so plan to bring appropriate equipment for collecting and packing out all animal waste according to Leave No Trace principles.
Bring entertainment: Without developed facilities at Baker State Forest, families should pack additional activities. Consider bringing wildlife identification guides, astronomy charts for night sky viewing, or portable games.
Water considerations: Pack sufficient water for both human and equine needs when staying at primitive sites. One visitor at Baker State Forest recommended "There are official camp spots with water access which are also free to use" though filtering any natural water sources remains essential.
Alternative options: The Villages at Turning Stone RV Park provides more amenities for families with young children. A family reported "We are a full-time traveling family (2 kids - 8 & 13) and 2 English Bulldogs...The campground was beautiful and easy to get in and out of" highlighting its suitability for those wanting more facilities near Pine Hill.
Site selection: RVers should scout potential dispersed camping spots in Baker State Forest before committing, as limited turnaround space exists on forest roads. Look for wider clearings that can accommodate your vehicle without damaging vegetation.
Leveling requirements: Bring leveling blocks when camping in undeveloped areas near Pine Hill. Most natural sites lack the grading found at commercial campgrounds, requiring additional equipment to stabilize larger vehicles.
Hookup alternatives: For those requiring hookups near Pine Hill, visitors report "All sites are full hookups (i think) and paved. Definitely geared towards the RV or trailer crowd" at Turning Stone RV Park, providing an option for horse owners who prefer more developed camping between trail riding days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Pine Hill, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Pine Hill, NY is The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone with a 4.9-star rating from 11 reviews.
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