Frontier Town Campground offers equestrian camping near Bristol, Vermont with specialized facilities in a dense Adirondack forest setting. The campground spans across 91 acres with over 40 miles of trails throughout the surrounding wilderness. Seasonal fluctuations affect camping conditions, with summer months bringing warmer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and higher humidity levels than other seasons.
What to do
Trail riding access: Directly connect to multiple Adirondack riding networks from Branbury State Park Campground, located 32 miles from Bristol. "There are approximately 50 campsites split across two areas. One section is heavily wooded and the other is an open grassy area near the shore of Lake Dunmore," notes one camper. The park offers access to both wooded and lakeside terrain for diverse riding experiences.
Swimming options: Take advantage of natural water features at Ausable Chasm Campground, where riders can cool off after trail excursions. A visitor explains, "Terrific location to hike the different trails of ausable chasm. Good sized site with electric and water. Shady but also had sun to dry our shoes from the raft tour." The combination of riding trails and water access creates versatility for equestrian campers.
Mountain biking alternatives: When not on horseback, explore extensive trail networks within a 45-minute drive. "The trails are well marked and well maintained," notes a camper at New Discovery State Park. The park's rail trail system offers smooth terrain suitable for riders of varying experience levels and connects to multiple water bodies including Osmore, Kettle, and Ricker ponds.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Riders appreciate the well-maintained bathroom and shower facilities at New Discovery State Park Campground. "The bathhouse looks typical and clean. Not much cell service, but some in places. Easy access to a lake and a picnic pavilion," reports a visitor. The park charges approximately $1 for 8-minute showers (quarters only).
Spacious sites: Equestrian campers value the generous dimensions of sites, particularly in dedicated horse camping areas. "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," shares a Frontier Town camper.
Natural shade: The old-growth forest setting provides natural protection from summer heat. "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," explains a camper. These conditions create comfortable daytime temperatures for both horses and riders during peak summer months.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings significant insect activity to forested horse camping areas. "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," warns a Frontier Town Campground visitor. Insect repellent for both humans and horses becomes essential equipment during warmer months.
Site configurations: Many equestrian camping areas feature shared facilities between sites. "I drove through the equestrian loop and found it very confusing. Lots of fences and shared pedestals," notes a camper. These layouts optimize space for horse containment but may require coordination with neighboring campers.
Advance booking requirements: Weekend reservations fill quickly, especially during summer and fall color seasons. "Reservations are def a plus. Can be difficult to get into on the weekend," advises a Groton Forest Road Campground visitor. Equestrian sites in particular tend to book 3-4 months in advance during peak periods.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Children can enjoy designated play areas at multiple campgrounds while adults tend to horses. "Spacious sites, hiking trails, biking trails, nice beach and grounds. Fishing, kayak, canoe, paddle boat and paddle board rentals. Theres a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground," describes one visitor to Branbury State Park.
Educational opportunities: Incorporate nature learning into family equestrian camping trips at Groton Forest Road Campground, located 68 miles from Bristol. "The spots were spacious with enough privacy between sites. The lake was gorgeous to swim in and had different rafts and stuff in the water for public use," shares a camper, highlighting amenities that complement riding activities.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about forest habitat and safety around wildlife. "There are bears in the area, so be aware and store all food properly. My family loves camping here," notes a Branbury State Park camper. This creates educational opportunities while ensuring proper food storage for both human supplies and horse feed.
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: Horse trailers combined with living quarters require substantial space. "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," explains a visitor to Frontier Town. Sites specifically designated for equestrian use typically accommodate these larger combined vehicles.
Water access challenges: Some campgrounds have non-standard water connections. "The spigots for the water are not threaded. We tried our water bandit, with messy wet results," shares a camper at New Discovery State Park. Bringing adapters or additional hose options helps ensure adequate water access for both horses and campers.
Ranger
