Branbury State Park Campground provides equestrian facilities near Forest Dale, Vermont. The park sits along Lake Dunmore at the base of the Green Mountains, approximately 15 miles southwest of Forest Dale. Sites are available for horse owners looking to explore the region's trail systems through the dense Vermont forests. Sites accommodate both tent campers and those with horse trailers.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: At Branbury State Park Campground, visitors access multiple riding trails. "We decided to take our jeep and test out our rooftop tent at this site. We were so impressed at the beautiful scenery especially across the street from the beach," notes Macie, who gave the park a 5-star rating.
Swimming and water activities: Lake access provides opportunities for horses to cool off after trail rides. "Across the street from the campground was access to the lake with plenty of grassy areas to hang out. And beautiful sunsets at night!" explains Nicole E. after her visit to Branbury.
Hiking with or without horses: The terrain offers varied challenges for riders and hikers. "This place has access to some of the best hiking and paddling in the state," according to M.A.D. P., who visited during a busy holiday weekend but still secured accommodation.
What campers like
Clean facilities: The maintenance standards at horse campgrounds near Forest Dale receive consistent praise. "The bathrooms are the cleanest I've seen so far and we do this full time," reports Chelsea B. about her stay at Frontier Town Campground, noting the equestrian camping area has "huge and so clean" sites.
Spacious sites: Horse-friendly campsites provide ample room for trailers and equipment. "I couldn't believe how large the lots were. While they aren't super far from one another, they are large enough that they seem further than they are," Catherine M. observes about Branbury's accommodations, which feature freshly raked sites and campfire pits with grills.
Natural features: The combination of forest and water access creates ideal conditions for horse camping. "The site was so scenic with a little waterfall and stream nearby," Nicole E. recalls about her Branbury stay, mentioning that "a five minute hike, though it is quite a rocky, boulder-y hike, from the sites leads to a small river and swimming hole."
What you should know
Bear awareness: Proper food storage is essential at equestrian campgrounds in the Forest Dale region. "Just make sure you put your food and trash away, there are black bears in the area!" warns Nicole E. from her Branbury experience. Similar precautions apply throughout local horse camping areas.
Seasonal challenges: June brings significant insect activity to the region's equestrian facilities. As Butch K. reports from Frontier Town, "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 services: Supply availability can be restricted near some horse campgrounds. Chelsea B. advises campers to "Get your supplies before you arrive! Not many places around to quickly grab charcoal if you need it."
Tips for camping with families
Recreational options for children: Family-friendly amenities complement horse facilities. "Spacious sites, hiking trails, biking trails, nice beach and grounds. Fishing, kayak, canoe, paddle boat and paddle board rentals," reports J L. about Branbury State Park, adding there's "a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground. Volleyball and horseshoe pits."
Educational opportunities: Nature programs enhance the equestrian experience. Lisa S. notes that Branbury offers excellent facilities where "the day use section has a wonderful beach with a swimming area and boat launch. Large trees provide shade on a grassy lawn, and grills are available."
Weather preparation: Temperature variations affect comfort levels for families with horses. Stephen T. advises that "even in august the nights get to a good sleeping temperature a vast majority of the time" at Branbury, making summer visits manageable.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For optimal horse trailer placement, consider sun exposure when booking. Charles K. recommends at Frontier Town Campground that "a site on the west side of the road gives best Morning sun - sites 57 and 59 are good examples," which helps for early trail departures with horses.
Connectivity considerations: Remote work capabilities vary at equestrian sites. Chelsea B. found that the equestrian camping area at Frontier Town is "really open with little tree cover which is perfect for those who work remote using Starlink. We had fantastic connection."
Layout challenges: Some equestrian areas require careful navigation. Sheri C. observed at Frontier Town that "Sites are built wrong so it is hard to get your camper into your site correct," noting the facility "is definitely catered to the equestrian part of the camping."
