6 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Horse camping opportunities near Manchester Center, Vermont include sites that accommodate horses and their owners. Luzerne Campground in Lake Luzerne, New York is the only campground in the region with dedicated stalls for horses. The campground features both standard camping amenities and equestrian-specific facilities. Sites at Luzerne come with horse stalls, making it convenient for visitors traveling with their equine companions. This established campground offers tent and RV camping with access to electric hookups, fires, showers, and picnic tables. Horse owners value the ability to keep their animals secure while enjoying the surrounding natural areas.
The horseback riding trails accessible from Luzerne Campground connect to the broader trail network in the area. Located approximately 50 miles from Manchester Center, this campground serves as a strategic base for exploring regional bridle paths. Luzerne remains open from May 19 to September 10, allowing for seasonal trail riding opportunities throughout the summer months. The campground's proximity to water features provides horses with necessary drinking access after trail rides. Trailer parking accommodates various sizes, and the campground layout considers the specific needs of equestrians. For riders seeking equestrian-friendly camping in the region, Luzerne offers the most comprehensive horse facilities with direct access to riding trails and proper equine accommodations.
"This campground is close to the highway between Albany and the Adirondacks. There’s a nice big lake and the Hudson RIver. Many campsites are near the lake."
"Great thing about this park is the hiking trails and lake so you don’t even have to leave to the park to enjoy great outdoor recreation."
from $24 - $143 / night
Check Availability"Decent bathroom situation--I've seen better and I've seen worse in Vermont."
"The park is amazingly clean, well run, located just of RT 4 and very near to Killington, Vermont. It has multiple lean-to sites which are in wooded areas."
"There are campsites that also come with stalls for your horse!"
"We get our site close to the lake so we can walk down and swim and my husband fishes. The showers are so nice and private and clean. Love that we can rent boats too."
from $22 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $125 - $500 / night
Check Availability"The site was so scenic with a little waterfall and stream nearby. The camp staff was so nice. They kept the the bathrooms and areas so clean."
"Love to lake access, secluded camping, the hiking and remote area. Planning on revisiting next summer, even in august the nights get to a good sleeping temperature a vast majority of the time."
from $35 - $45 / night
Check Availability
LegendPlenty of space between sites. Decent bathroom situation--I've seen better and I've seen worse in Vermont. The (AT&T) cell phone reception was pretty good, but could be slow at times (which could be because of the area or because of the busy fall color season.)
ScoutI've stayed at 10 of the state parks of VT. Gifford Woods takes the cake in friendliness of its staff. The park is amazingly clean, well run, located just of RT 4 and very near to Killington, Vermont. It has multiple lean-to sites which are in wooded areas. Cool stone bathrooms and playing fields for kids but the highlight (for me) is access to the Appalachian Trail. The AT runs directly through this park. While on a 4 state section hike I traveled by foot through this park. The ranger gave me an ice cream, pointed me to the showers and then chatted with me for an hour about my hike so far. He also gave me a ride to the Inn at Long Trail to pick up a resupply box since I was a few days behind schedule and low on food. I'll always remember his kindness. Living just across the state line in NH, I have frequented Gifford Woods on 4 other occasions for day hiking with family. Enjoy! I sure did!
ScoutThe only campground in all of New York that acquires to house back riders. There are campsites that also come with stalls for your horse!
GuideThis campground is the number one rated in Vermont for a reason. The staff were wonderful, the sites are pristine and picturesque, the faculties are decorated with wildflowers. We met a number of AT through hikers, who were very willing to share their adventure stories.
RangerThis campground is close to the highway between Albany and the Adirondacks. There’s a nice big lake and the Hudson RIver. Many campsites are near the lake. The sites are shady and close together, but still feel fairly private. We enjoyed the hiking trails and beach while camping, then went further north for the full ADK experience.
ScoutWhen camping in VT it is usually our goal to hike, rest, cook, and relax at camp. We live in a busy/loud city so we really love a rural spot where we can just unplug and enjoy nature. Gifford Woods has great access to the AT and the Long Trail, nice bathrooms, and kind staff... but campers beware- it is wedged between two major highways. Initially we pulled up to the site "Poplar" after driving 4+ hours and I could have cried, this site faces a large DOT/Parks Dept. parking lot with a huge building and trucks everywhere. Luckily the (very sweet) staff said they understood that this was an issue and that they do get lots of complaints about that site. They moved us to T02 which was dramatically better. Unfortunately, you can still hear trucks/car honking/ambulances from that site and I assume all other sites. I understand now that people camp here just for AT access, but I would probably not go back due to the sheer volume of the neighboring highways and quieter camping options nearby.
RangerAlthough the campground was right off the road, it's still in a forest with big pine trees and mossy boulders. It was easy to access from 87. Given the proximity to the road, there is road noise, so that doesn't allow for that super outdoorsy experience you might desire. At night though it would get very dark and quiet - there weren't a lot of campers there during our stay. The camphost lives in a home onsite and was mostly helpful. Be sure to mention the 5 nights for 4 deal on their website upfront, otherwise she won't reimburse. Upon working with her to extend our stay, she said people were scheduled to come into our spot. We moved and no one arrived, so that was a bit annoying.
To get to the sites, we had to take it a bit slow because there are some low hanging trees and a turn, but made it fine. Our first site, 22, was a back-in, 30 amp, full hook-up. It was a long site with plenty of room for our RV and SUV. We had to back it up to the very end to find the flattest option to level. With the way they have their sites set up, you need a 50 ft hose for water. This site was close to the showerhouse but next to a longterm trailer with crap everywhere and we weren't super thrilled that was our view from our windows in our living area. Our second site, 50, was also a back-in, 30 amp, full hookup. It was very pretty but hard to level. The site slopes up, so the backend was high. We tried about every way to sit our rig in there to level, but we ended up driving our front tires up on some leveling blocks and went up with the jacks as much as we safely could. We didn't get a perfect level, but we decided it was ok since we only had 2 days left. We had to wiggle our SUV in kind of sideways, but it worked.
There were some "residents" there in tents, which was interesting and a couple longterm trailers (with the typical cluttered lots you see at campgrounds that offer longterm stays). The campground is clean and the shower houses were faithfully cleaned everyday around 11a. Showerhouses were dated, but had super hot water for showers.
A few miles further down the road is the town of Lake Luzerne. We visited their small grocery which had the basics and we ate at one of the restaurants which had a view of the water (Upriver Cafe). The campground was in a perfect location to visit Lake George and surrounding area (Six Flags, outlet shops, putt-putt, restaurants etc). If you're wanting to explore even more you're only 1.5 hrs to Lake Placid and the Green Mountain National Forest.
Work was difficult with my husband dependent on AT&T. The Weboost got Verizon working fine, but AT&T was spotty. We had some issues with our RV that we were trying to get fixed locally which extended our stay, otherwise we would have left earlier due to this. The camphost told us that they had invested in some sort of mini Verizon tower for their personal use, so that was what was helping the Verizon signal. The campground offers wifi at the office/pool/rec room area, but when the "residents" come down, it brings it to a snails pace. My husband would go down there in the morning to work and had to go to Starbucks in Lake George at times when all the kids at camp decided to be on their devices at the same time.
Pool is not heated, so not many people were using it. They charge $2 per garbage bag to be put in their dumpster. They sell a few necessities in their office and firewood. They have laundry with 1 working residential washer $1 and 1 residential dryer $.75 and 1 industrial sized dryer $1. We did a couple loads with no issue. They are outside in a patio area.
Bring the bug spray. The mosquitos were as big as birds and tenacious!
LegendThe road to our campsite was paved and in good shape but there were a few tight spots because of the trees that make it tricky for a big rig (Loop A seems to be the best for big-rigs). Great thing about this park is the hiking trails and lake so you don’t even have to leave to the park to enjoy great outdoor recreation. We found it enjoyable just to hang out in the park rather than trying to find things to do in the area. After hiking and paddling, we loved relaxing out at our campsite with a campfire.
Our campsite was spacious but required some maneuvering to avoid scraping trees with our RV. Campsites are spacious, shady, and had good separation between the neighboring sites which we enjoyed. Generators are allowed but not too many people were using them. The few other campers around that used them were mindful of quiet hours. Since it was still a little cool and our windows were closed and we never heard anyone’s generator. The park was not very crowded when we were there, but we can imagine it could get very busy and noisy in the busy summer season. The beach area seems to be a draw for people so the summer camping season is probably packed. The snack bar and gift/supplies shop at the sandy beach area were not open as we were there late in the season. There is also a nice playground for kids to enjoy.
This is dry camping so there are no hook-ups but there are restrooms and shower. Both were clean but the shower fluctuated between lukewarm, hot, and warm during my shower. Oh well, the shower felt good after our active days. There are two pavilions you can rent which are nice if big groups want to gather. Take note that only two pets are allowed per campsite, so plan accordingly if you are a pet owner.
Access is fairly easy, just off I-87, and there are plenty of signs directing you which way to go. Saratoga Springs and Lake George are nearby if you want to explore. We recommend visiting the National Horse Racing Hall of Fame in Saratoga Springs, if you have time. We would definitely stay here again.
GuideThis campsite was amazing. Each site had a fair amount of isolation and trees surrounding it, and the mosquitoes aren't too bad there either. 10 minutes away is the trail head for the Bucklin Trail (one of the most difficult trails for Mt. Killington).
Also, the campsite lies directly on the Appalachian trail, so for a shorter or less-intensive hike, walk about 2.5 miles to the Deer Leap Overlook for some incredible views of the mountain ranges nearby.
Horse-friendly camping options near Manchester Center, Vermont provide equestrians with facilities designed for both riders and their horses. Luzerne Campground in Lake Luzerne, New York stands out as the primary equestrian camping destination in the region, located about 50 miles from Manchester Center. The campground operates seasonally from May 19 to September 10 and connects to regional bridle paths for trail riding opportunities.
Lakeside recreation: At Moreau Lake State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy multiple water activities during summer months. "Nice sandy beach with lifeguard hours. Facilities are relatively modern but still basic, nice and clean," notes reviewer Amber A. The park offers boat, canoe, and paddleboard rentals for exploring the lake.
Trail riding: For equestrian campers, Luzerne Campground provides dedicated 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!" states reviewer Brittnay B. Riders can access regional bridle paths directly from the campground.
Hiking trails: Vermont's wooded terrain offers numerous hiking options with elevation changes suitable for various skill levels. "There was a nice swim at your own risk beach (no guards), boat rentals, good fishing," says Robert L. about Luzerne Campground. Many campgrounds connect to trail systems with routes ranging from under 1 mile to full-day treks.
Spacious sites: Branbury State Park Campground receives praise for its roomy accommodations. "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," reports Catherine M. The campground offers both wooded sites and open areas near Lake Dunmore.
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance consistently ranks high among reviewer priorities. "Camp staff was so nice. They kept the bathrooms and areas so clean," writes Nicole E. about Branbury State Park. Showers, restrooms, and common areas receive regular attention at established campgrounds throughout the region.
Local amenities: The proximity to small towns provides convenient access to supplies. At Luzerne, campers appreciate the "little mom and pop store across the street perfect for last minute needs and have the best homemade chocolate cream pie," according to Antoinette W. Many campgrounds stand within 15-30 minutes of grocery stores, restaurants, and outdoor supply shops.
Seasonal considerations: Vermont campgrounds operate primarily from May through October due to harsh winter conditions. "Fall in New England can't be beat," notes Ryan about Branbury State Park Campground. Snow typically covers higher elevations until late April, with peak camping season running July through September.
Wildlife awareness: Bears inhabit wooded areas throughout the region. "Just make sure you put your food and trash away—there are black bears in the area!" warns Nicole E. about Branbury State Park. Proper food storage in bear-resistant containers or locked vehicles prevents unwanted encounters.
Variable weather: Pack for temperature fluctuations even in summer months. "Even in august the nights get to a good sleeping temperature a vast majority of the time," mentions Stephen T. about Branbury. Daytime temperatures can reach 80°F while dropping into the 50s at night.
Beach access: Lake settings provide natural entertainment for children. "Spacious sites, hiking trails, biking trails, nice beach and grounds. Fishing, kayak, canoe, paddle boat and paddle board rentals," describes J L. about Branbury State Park. Swimming areas with gradual entry points work well for younger children.
Playground facilities: Many established campgrounds include dedicated play areas. "There's a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground. Volleyball and horseshoe pits," adds J L. about Branbury State Park. These amenities provide entertainment during downtime between outdoor adventures.
Educational opportunities: Nature programs enhance family camping experiences. "My best friend and I took the kids to this campground and we loved it! Beautiful beaches, lots of places to hike and lots of places to take a bicycle and go exploring," shares Amy M. about Luzerne Campground. Ranger-led activities often cover local wildlife, plant identification, and conservation topics.
Site selection: When booking for larger rigs, research specific loop compatibility. "The road to our campsite was paved and in good shape but there were a few tight spots because of the trees that make it tricky for a big rig (Loop A seems to be the best for big-rigs)," advises Nancy W. about Moreau Lake State Park Campground. Many campgrounds provide site dimensions online.
Hookup limitations: Most state-run facilities offer limited or no hookups. "This is dry camping so there are no hook-ups but there are restrooms and shower," continues Nancy W. Private campgrounds like Tippicanoe Campground provide more services: "The sites all have water, 50amp and sewer hookups," according to David G.
Access considerations: Note road conditions when planning routes to campgrounds. "Access is fairly easy, just off I-87, and there are plenty of signs directing you which way to go," mentions Nancy W. about Moreau Lake. Low-clearance RVs should verify entrance roads lack significant dips or obstacles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Manchester Center, VT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Manchester Center, VT is Moreau Lake State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 18 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Manchester Center, VT?
TheDyrt.com has all 6 equestrian camping locations near Manchester Center, VT, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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