Frontier Town Campground provides specialized equestrian camping near Upper Jay, New York, with dedicated sites designed specifically for horses and riders. The Adirondack region surrounding Upper Jay sits at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 4,000 feet, creating diverse trail systems that transition from valley floors to mountain ridges. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from November through March, while summer days average 75-85°F with cooler evenings.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: At Frontier Town Campground, riders access multiple trail networks directly from their sites. Charles K. notes, "This is a great home base to explore from the Lake George region to Ticonderoga to day hikes or cycling." The trails connect to both beginner-friendly paths and more challenging terrain.
Swimming and water activities: Branbury State Park Campground offers lake access with rental equipment. According to J.L., "Fishing, kayak, canoe, paddle boat and paddle board rentals" are available, and the park includes "a nice beach and grounds" perfect for cooling off after trail riding.
Local brewery visits: After a day of riding, some equestrians enjoy the nearby brewery. Chelsea B. mentions, "There's even a brewery a ten minute walk down the road" from Frontier Town, providing a convenient stop without needing to drive after a long day of riding.
What campers like
Spacious equestrian sites: The dedicated horse camping areas provide ample room for trailers, tents, and horse care. Chelsea B. from Frontier Town explains, "We stayed in site 33 which is in the equestrian camping area. It's really open with little tree cover which is perfect for those who work remote using Starlink. The sites in the equestrian camping area are huge and so clean."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards at equestrian-friendly campgrounds. Charles K. reports that at Frontier Town, "Both times the bathrooms and showers were immaculate. The staff does a fantastic job of maintenance."
Natural features: The surrounding landscape offers enjoyable environments for both horses and humans. At Branbury State Park, Catherine M. describes, "Nice beautiful wooded area, we were able to put a tent and hang a hammock for sleeping. Price was very reasonable."
What you should know
Bugs can be problematic: Early summer brings challenging insect conditions for horses and riders. Butch K. warns about Frontier Town, "I saw the bugs, some of them clearly mosquitoes and I never saw one get away with biting me. But I ended up with two lower legs and two forearms that constantly itch like mad. I will never go back in June."
Limited supplies nearby: Stock up before arrival as rural locations mean few shopping options. Chelsea B. advises Frontier Town visitors, "Get your supplies before you arrive! Not many places around to quickly grab charcoal if you need it."
Site design considerations: Some equestrian sites require strategic setup. As Sheri C. points out regarding Frontier Town, "Sites are built wrong so it is hard to get you camper into your site correct. It is definitely catered to the equestrian part of the camping."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families with children benefit from recreational facilities while base camping for riding. At Branbury State Park, J.L. mentions the campground has "A large playground. Volleyball and horseshoe pits" and describes it as "Family friendly!"
Educational opportunities: Nature programs supplement riding activities for younger family members. Lisa S. notes that Branbury State Park has "a nature center with all kinds of information and activities," offering educational content related to the Adirondack ecosystem.
Bear safety protocols: Wildlife awareness is essential when camping with children in horse country. Lisa S. cautions Branbury visitors, "There are bears in the area, so be aware and store all food properly," making proper food storage crucial for family safety.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for morning sun: RV campers should consider sun positioning for optimal comfort. Charles K. recommends at Frontier Town, "This is an old-growth forest area so a site on the west side of the road gives best Morning sun - sites 57 and 59 are good examples."
Long pull-through availability: Larger horse trailers with living quarters benefit from oversized sites. Butch K. shares about Frontier Town's site 43, "it was long enough it could have fit two of the biggest RVs I have ever seen. My 75 foot starling cable did not even reach all the way back out to the road."
Weekday camping advantages: For better availability and quieter experience, schedule equestrian camping during weekdays. Butch K. observed at Frontier Town that "there were very few people there except on the weekends," making weekdays optimal for horse campers seeking solitude.
Ranger
