Camping options near Cornwall, Connecticut range from established state parks to family campgrounds with full amenities. The region sits in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains with elevations ranging from 500-1,300 feet, creating varied camping terrain with both wooded and open sites. Spring camping often brings overnight temperatures below 50°F, while summer months typically reach 75-85°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: At Taconic State Park's Rudd Pond Area, campers can access multiple trail networks directly from the campground. "There is a trailhead at the end of the campground that connects to the other trails in Taconic State Park," notes Katherine P., who adds that some trails are "unmarked" but offer good exploration options.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground offers excellent fishing with multiple water bodies. "There is a lake with boat rentals. Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low," shares Seth K. For largemouth bass fishing, try Rudd Pond where Rosie R. reports "catching 2 decent-sized largemouth bass" and notes there's "plenty of fishing access from shore and you can rent a boat for the whole day."
Water activities: Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground features a swimming beach that remains accessible to campers after the public season ends. "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful," reports Courtney D. The park also has "a nice open beach on Canopus Lake with a concession area and bathhouse," according to another camper.
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Several campgrounds in the region feature raised wooden platforms for tent camping, which campers appreciate during wet weather. At Lake Taghkanic, Rosie R. explains, "This was our second time coming to this campground and our second time getting dumped on by the rain, but have no fear!! The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection!"
Private bathroom facilities: Cozy Hills Campground offers individual bathroom facilities that campers appreciate. "We stayed near the water. Clean private bathrooms were a plus," notes Kim T. The campground also provides a "clean pool" though she mentions it's "only 3 feet deep."
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds organize regular events for guests. At Thousand Trails Rondout Valley, campers enjoy scheduled activities throughout their stay. "They have loads of events over the weekend," mentions one reviewer, while Kasey M. notes amenities that include "a pool, playground, and activities that include bocce ball, shuffleboard, and horseshoes."
What you should know
Site variations: Campgrounds in the Cornwall area have dramatically different site layouts and privacy levels. At Fahnestock State Park, one camper advises, "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site... check out the sites online to get one that is private."
Weekday vs. weekend differences: Prospect Mountain Campground and other facilities in the region experience significant differences in occupancy and atmosphere between weekdays and weekends. Dawn E. notes that some sites "were close together, but I was there before there were leaves on the trees and could see how there would be more privacy once they filled out."
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds in the region operate from May through mid-October. Lake Taghkanic runs from "May 6 to October 15" while Taconic State Park's season is shorter, operating from "May 27 to September 5." Plan accordingly as the shoulder seasons may have limited services or restricted access to certain facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Look for family-focused amenities: Campgrounds with dedicated children's facilities make family trips easier. Cozy Hills Campground offers "lots and lots of activities for kids! Arts & Crafts, Arcade, Bingo, Casino Night etc. Pool is very nice for families - with no deep end, really safe for younger kids," according to Ann S.
Consider campgrounds with recreation options: Lake Compounce Campground provides access to multiple recreation facilities. "They have a small playground, activities, tennis court, basketball. Not to mention its next to the amusement park," notes Nichol P., though she cautions that "the tent spots are small and close together."
Check bathroom proximity: When camping with children, bathroom location matters. At Cozy Hills, a reviewer mentions "Bathrooms are very clean but very far apart," which could be challenging for families with younger children, especially at night.
Tips from RVers
Site layout considerations: For RV camping near Cornwall, Connecticut, understanding site orientation can improve your experience. At Lake Compounce Campground, Diane R. explains, "Easy entry, long pull thrus. You will face your neighbor door to door but enough room between you don't feel invaded."
Hookup variations: Copake Camping Resort accommodates larger rigs with appropriate electrical service. "Full RV hookups with 50 & 30amp services," notes one reviewer. However, not all campgrounds offer sewer connections—Lake Compounce has "electric, water and cable TV connections" but "does not have sewer hookups, but does have a dump station."
Terrain challenges: Many campgrounds in the area feature hilly terrain that affects RV parking and hookups. At Rondout Valley, Ian R. acknowledges "This is what I want for a Catskill campground. It is not a concrete pad haven and yes, there is mud. Our site was even and easy to level on."
