Arcadian Pastures Equine offers equestrian camping sites in the eastern Catskill region, where elevations range from 600 to 4,000 feet. The campground serves as a hub for riders exploring the extensive bridle path network throughout the surrounding mountains. Campers access both local trails and connector routes leading to wider trail systems across multiple recreation areas.
What to do
Explore mountain hiking trails: At North-South Lake Campground, visitors find extensive trail networks adjacent to camping areas. "A lot of the hiking nearby is also relatively easy and includes the newly opened (as of 2016) viewing platform for Kaasterskill falls, which is minutes down the road from the campground," notes Jessica W. The trail system connects to multiple scenic overlooks and historic sites.
Fish in local streams: Betty Brook Camp provides direct streamside camping for anglers. According to Robert B., "You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots." The location offers year-round fishing opportunities in an uncrowded setting with native trout populations in the cooler months.
Paddle the lakes: The dual lake system at North-South Lake accommodates various watercraft. "Two lakes. Highly recommended," writes Luka M. The lakes maintain swimming areas with designated beaches separate from boating zones during summer months.
What campers like
Private camping areas: Bear Spring Mountain — DEC receives praise for its secluded sites. Amanda P. describes it as "Clean, private, and quiet!" The campground maintains buffer zones of natural vegetation between sites to enhance privacy throughout all camping loops.
Natural water sources: The mountain springs provide high-quality drinking water at certain campgrounds. Kimberly S. notes about Bear Spring Mountain, "Nothing but woods all around! Endless hiking and beautiful steams - you can drink straight from the pipes!" These natural springs maintain consistent flow rates even during drier periods.
Family-friendly amenities: North-South Lake Campground offers comprehensive facilities for family groups. Becky G. states it's a "Large family friendly campground with all the amenities - boating, showers, great hiking." The campground maintains designated swimming areas with gradual entry points suitable for children.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds in the Windham area require advance booking. Betty Brook Camp operates differently, as Peter explains: "It's a small town, with just a gas station store. I would not recommend this for large trailers. The site is fairly small, but it's in state park, and there's tons of walking that can be done." The dispersed camping areas operate on a first-come basis.
Seasonal considerations: The camping season varies significantly across elevations. North-South Lake operates from "May 19 to October 22" according to their schedule, while some lower-elevation sites remain accessible year-round.
Remote locations: Many horse campgrounds near Windham, New York require self-sufficiency. Peter describes Betty Brook Camp as "rather remote, but it is right along West kill road." Most equestrian camping areas maintain minimal facilities designed for visitors bringing their own supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds: North-South Lake Campground provides reliable facilities for family groups. Tara L. advises, "North South lake is one of the larger public camp grounds in New York. The sites are well spaced out. Great for families. The lake is huge. Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds." The campground maintains designated family camping loops with larger sites.
Bring water recreation gear: The lakes provide multiple swimming opportunities. Lizz H. shares, "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time." The water temperature reaches comfortable swimming levels by late June.
Pack for variable weather: Mountain elevations create significant temperature fluctuations. The Windham area experiences average temperature swings of 30°F between day and night during summer months. Rain gear remains essential even during peak summer season.
Tips from RVers
Access road considerations: When selecting equestrian camping sites near Windham, verify road conditions for horse trailers. Many forest roads leading to horse campgrounds maintain seasonal closures or width restrictions affecting larger rigs. Some areas require high-clearance vehicles for access during spring thaw periods.
Limited hookup availability: Full-service sites remain scarce in the region. North-South Lake Campground provides electric hookups and water connections, but most horse camping areas offer dry camping only. Bring sufficient water storage for both human and equine needs when using remote camping areas.
Turnaround space: Equestrian sites typically allocate additional parking for trailers. Verify site dimensions when bringing longer rigs, as many forest campgrounds maintain tight turning radius restrictions. Sites accommodating both camping equipment and horse trailers average 50 feet in length.
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