Frontier Town Campground in North Hudson serves as a primary equestrian camping destination near Willsboro, New York, located in the eastern Adirondacks region where elevations range from 500 to 1,500 feet. The campground sits within Essex County, part of the Adirondack Park's six-million-acre boundary, which experiences summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. The facility remains relatively uncrowded during weekdays with most equestrian campers arriving Friday through Sunday.
What to do
Trail riding on bridle paths: Riders at Frontier Town can access designated horse trails that connect to broader Adirondack trail systems. One camper noted, "This is a great home base to explore from the Lake George region to Ticonderoga to day hikes or cycling" (Charles K., Frontier Town Campground).
Swimming at Lake Dunmore: Located about 45 minutes east of Willsboro at Branbury State Park Campground, this lake offers a designated swimming area with beach access. A camper shared, "Across the street from the campground was access to the lake with plenty of grassy areas to hang out. And beautiful sunsets at night!" (Nicole E., Branbury State Park).
Water recreation at AuSable Chasm: Just 15 miles northeast of Willsboro, this natural attraction provides rafting and tubing opportunities alongside camping. According to one visitor, "They have a small store and rec room for kids. I think they are making improvements always. This camp ground is a short drive to Lake Placid, Plattsburgh, Vermont State and so much more" (Susan S., AuSable Chasm Campground).
What campers like
Spacious equestrian sites: Frontier Town Campground features exceptionally large sites designed for horses and camping equipment. "I was in 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" (Butch K., Frontier Town Campground).
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain regular cleaning schedules for shared amenities. At Branbury State Park, "The camp staff was so nice. They kept the the bathrooms and areas so clean. There was plenty of space between sites so it didn't feel like you were on top of each other" (Nicole E., Branbury State Park Campground).
Natural features: The region offers diverse geological attractions and water features. At AuSable Chasm Campground, campers appreciate the "Pretty decent campground with lots of sites anod close by to some fun attractions" (Tammy W., AuSable Chasm Campground).
What you should know
Seasonal insect activity: The Adirondack region experiences significant mosquito populations, particularly in June. One Frontier Town visitor reported, "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" (Butch K., Frontier Town Campground).
Campground layout challenges: Equestrian areas can have confusing layouts. "I drove through the equestrian loop and found it very confusing. Lots of fences and shared pedestals" (Butch K., Frontier Town Campground).
Bathroom facilities: Most campgrounds offer shower houses, though availability varies. At AuSable Chasm, "Bathrooms and shower rooms are individual rooms, but the doors are not labeled so it's a game of 'what's behind door number 1?' There was no light in the shower room that I looked at so a night shower would be out of the question" (Lee D., AuSable Chasm Campground).
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds include playground facilities for children. Branbury State Park features "a large playground. Volleyball and horseshoe pits. Definitely will be returning! Also, bathrooms were always clean and well maintained. Park staff very friendly!" (J L., Branbury State Park Campground).
Nature programs: Educational opportunities exist at select parks. As one visitor noted, "Theres a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground. Volleyball and horseshoe pits" (J L., Branbury State Park Campground).
Food storage precautions: Wildlife management requires proper food handling. "Just make sure you put your food and trash away- there are black bears in the area!" (Nicole E., Branbury State Park Campground).
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on sun exposure and privacy needs. At Frontier Town, "a site on the west side of the road gives best Morning sun - sites 57 and 59 are good examples" (Charles K., Frontier Town Campground).
Leveling challenges: Some sites require significant adjustment for RVs. At AuSable Chasm Campground, "The road through the campground is dirt and rutted but the speed limit is 5 mph, so it wasn't that bad, but it would be a mess if it was raining" (Lee D., AuSable Chasm Campground).
Utility connections: Electric and water hookups exist but configurations vary between campgrounds. "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" (Sheri C., Frontier Town Campground).
Ranger
