Lake Taghkanic State Park and surrounding camping areas are situated in the Taconic Mountain range, with elevations ranging from 700 to 2,000 feet across the region. The area experiences distinct seasons with fall temperatures typically ranging between 45-65°F, creating favorable camping conditions from May through October. Winter snowfall often exceeds 40 inches annually, explaining why most campgrounds close during colder months.
What to do
Swimming access: At Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground, the beach area provides clean swimming opportunities with fees for equipment use. "The lake is beautiful and clean. Expect to pay $15 fee (I think) to use your paddleboards / kyacks etc. Worth every penny," notes one camper.
Fishing opportunities: Rudd Pond Area — Taconic State Park offers both shore fishing and boat rentals for anglers. A visitor reported: "There is plenty of fishing access from shore and you can rent a boat for the whole day to fish on the water. There is a lot of hiking in the area- def check out Bash Bish Falls!"
Stargazing conditions: The limited light pollution in the region creates excellent night sky viewing. "Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low," according to one Lake Taghkanic visitor.
Hiking trails: Multiple trail networks connect directly from campgrounds to surrounding natural areas. "The trail to lake overgrown behind campsite. There is platform sites. Nice beach, playground. Seemed like a lot of campers were escaping the big city. Bash bish falls are just a short drive."
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Several campgrounds offer raised wooden platforms for tent setup. "The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection! The lake is gorgeous and there are plenty of nearby hikes for exploring," explains a camper at Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park.
Accessibility to NYC: Many campgrounds are within reasonable driving distance from New York City. "Lake Taghkanic State Park was not a long drive from NYC, maybe 2 hours. The campsite was very clean and maintained. We loved the hot showers after a long day of fishing and swimming in the lake."
Off-season solitude: Camping during shoulder seasons provides a quieter experience. "We were there before there were leaves on the trees and could see how there would be more privacy once they filled out," notes a camper at Prospect Mountain Campground and RV Park.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-serviced bathrooms and shower facilities. "Superb. Quiet, clean enough and well worth the price. Showers are hot and there's great water pressure. The cleanliness of the bathrooms depends on how busy the campground is."
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Many campgrounds have mixed site layouts with varying degrees of seclusion. "The sites were a little close together, but being able to fish and catching 2 decent-sized largemouth bass made everything all ok!!"
Weekend crowding: Proximity to urban areas means busier conditions Friday through Sunday. At Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground, visitors noted: "Busy Campground on Weekends! This park has a nice open beach on Canopus Lake with a concession area and bathhouse, which we found to be quite clean!"
Transportation options: Some locations are accessible without personal vehicles. "Came in on MetroNorth from NYC then took a pre-arranged taxi ($25 flat rate) to the campground. Check-in was fast at the registration desk, and they sold bundles of wood for $6."
Management quality affects experience: Staff responsiveness can significantly impact stays. "I think the regular price is $64. Full hookups, tents and cabins to rent. Pleanty to do in and around campground. Grounds has a pool, concession stand, game room, playgrounds, sports feild and more."
Tips for camping with families
Activity-focused campgrounds: Look for locations with dedicated recreational facilities. At Thousand Trails Rondout Valley, a camper reports: "This is a large family campground with tons of stuff to do, I was pleasantly surprised by how quiet it was. I really enjoyed our visit."
Kid-friendly swimming areas: Some locations offer designated swimming sections for children. "This campground was one of the best I've been to. They have both platform and dirt tent sites, all sites come equipped with fire pits. The bathrooms and showers are clean and the water stayed hot."
Weekend programming: Many parks schedule organized activities on weekends. "Prospects mountain is a great campground for families with younger kids. They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing."
Proximity to towns: Access to nearby communities provides backup options for meals and supplies. "The town of Hudson is also close by if you're looking to get some of the comforts of a town while you're out and about."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: At Lake Compounce Campground, RVers recommend specific site arrangements: "You will face your neighbor door to door but enough room between you don't feel invaded. Restrooms are clean and spacious. Showers are great. Whoever planned this campground is/was a camper."
Utility connections: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups despite accommodating RVs. "Very nice campground. Has electric, water and cable TV connections. Clean bathrooms and nice store. It is part of the Lake Compounce Amusement Park."
Dump station availability: Most parks with RV sites provide this facility. "Does not have sewer hookups, but does have a dump station. Very well maintained and friendly staff will stay again when in the area."
Leveling requirements: Site grading varies between campgrounds. "Our site was even and easy to level on. Lots of locals and summer residents. Our biggest issue was that they are still training their staff how to deal with families."
