Bear Spring Mountain offers equestrian camping near Stamford, New York in the western Catskills region. The campground operates from mid-May through late August with multiple trails accessible for horseback riding throughout the surrounding wilderness area. Campers can access streams for watering horses while exploring the extensive trail system.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Charles E. Baker State Forest, campers can enjoy fishing at the nearby pond. "Water access at a lovely nearby pond. Highly recommended," notes Cameron, who visited in late September.
Kayaking and paddleboating: The pond at Bear Spring Mountain provides water recreation options beyond horseback riding. "There is an area for day use where you can rent a paddle boat or kayak to go out on the water," reports J G., adding specifics about on-site amenities.
Hiking trails: Multiple designated hiking routes are available throughout the region. "Highly recommended if you like hiking. Great flowers and nature. There is a hiking loop that goes around the pond," mentions J G. about the trail system at Bear Spring Mountain.
What campers like
Remote locations: Betty Brook Camp offers solitude for those seeking a quieter equestrian camping experience. Robert B. explains, "Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people. You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots."
Waterfront access: Campsites located along streams provide convenient water access. Peter notes about Betty Brook Camp: "It is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road. There's a stream alongside it, a fire pit, and a town about 8 mi away."
Family-friendly facilities: North-South Lake Campground accommodates families with various amenities. "Large family friendly campground with all the amenities - boating, showers, great hiking," says Becky G., highlighting its versatility.
What you should know
Wildlife considerations: When equestrian camping in this region, proper bear protocols are essential. Kevin T. notes about his experience: "This campsite isn't the best but is still good. There is horses so you will smell them. There is a lake, grills restrooms and showers."
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally. May through October tends to be the primary camping season, with North-South Lake Campground specifically open "May 19 to October 22."
Variable terrain: The landscape includes steep sections that may limit some activities. Becky S. cautions about Bear Spring Mountain: "Brought bikes but the roads were way too steep. Small playground was nice for the kids."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: North-South Lake provides family-friendly swimming areas. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," shares Lizz H., highlighting its reliability for family outings.
Multiple activity options: Families benefit from having diverse recreation choices in single locations. Chris D. recalls: "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."
Avoid peak times: To ensure a more peaceful experience when camping with horses and families, strategic timing helps. Tara L. advises: "Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When bringing horses and RVs, choosing the appropriate campground area matters. Amber A. mentions about Bear Spring Mountain: "There are two areas for camping, check out both though one smells kind of like a barn."
RV amenities: For those needing hookups while traveling with horses, certain campgrounds offer necessary facilities. Bear Spring Mountain provides "drinking-water, electric-hookups, fifty-amp-hookups, thirty-amp-hookups" according to its amenities list, making it suitable for equestrian campers with RVs.
Site privacy: Some campgrounds offer more secluded RV sites than others. Amanda P. notes about Bear Spring Mountain: "Clean, private, and quiet! We had a blast!!" This privacy factor can be important when camping with horses.
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