North-South Lake Campground and Moreau Lake State Park offer two premier equestrian camping destinations near Watervliet, New York. Located in the foothills of the Catskill and Adirondack Mountains, these areas provide varied terrain for trail riding across elevations ranging from 500 to 2,000 feet. Most equestrian campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from May through mid-October with limited site availability during peak summer months.
What to do
Swimming and water recreation: The lake at North-South Lake Campground provides excellent swimming opportunities. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," notes Lizz H.
Hiking with varied difficulty levels: Trails near campgrounds offer options for all skill levels. "Hiking trails become nice XC skiing trails," reports Amber A. about the multi-use trails at Moreau Lake State Park Campground.
Horseback riding on designated trails: Several campgrounds accommodate equestrian visitors with appropriate facilities. "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!" writes Brittnay B. about Luzerne Campground.
Fishing in stocked lakes: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing access. "Good fishing," notes Robert L. about the angling opportunities at Luzerne.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campers appreciate the layout of sites. "The campsites are spacious, shady, and had good separation between the neighboring sites which we enjoyed," reports Nancy W. about her stay at Moreau Lake.
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention well-maintained amenities. "Clean and well run campground with beautiful lakes and surrounded by trails," Rachel G. shares about North-South Lake Campground.
Proximity to attractions: Location near popular destinations adds convenience. "Minutes away from Lake George village. Great little diners and shops in town of Hadley/Luzerne also," mentions Dan H. about Luzerne Campground.
Family-friendly environment: Several campgrounds cater well to families with children. "Large family friendly campground with all the amenities - boating, showers, great hiking," notes Becky G.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking. At Betty Brook Camp, reservations are not needed as it's dispersed camping, but "It is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road," according to Peter.
Seasonal crowds: Popular campgrounds can become busy during peak times. "Always packed, but always beautiful. Awesome access to the Catskill Escaprment trail from here," shares Maribeth W.
Limited availability: Sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "Reserve very early for waterfront," advises Rachel G.
Weather considerations: The region experiences variable conditions throughout the camping season. "This campground has a large number of hiking trails for every level of outdoorsman," Robert L. notes, adding versatility regardless of weather.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for children: Lakes with swimming areas provide entertainment. "My daughter loves it here. We get our site close to the lake so we can walk down and swim," shares Antoinette W. about her experiences at Luzerne Campground.