Camping sites near Ancramdale, New York range across three distinct ecological zones where the Taconic Mountains meet the Hudson Valley lowlands. The area sits at elevations between 600-2,000 feet, creating varied microclimates across camping destinations. Most campsites in the Ancramdale region feature wooded settings with mixed hardwood forests dominated by maple, oak, and birch trees that provide natural shade during summer months.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park, the proximity to Bash Bish Falls offers a popular day hike. "There are plenty of hiking trails nearby and of course, trails to Bash Bish Falls which is beautiful. It was low the first time we visited and we were able to make it to the top of the falls to go swimming and the views were incredible," notes Jackie G.
Swimming in natural settings: The Rudd Pond Area — Taconic State Park provides swimming options beyond the more crowded beaches. A visitor mentioned, "There is a very large open grassy field for play/sports, a playground and life guarded portion of the lake for swimming." The pond offers a quieter alternative to larger lakes in the region.
Exploring historic sites: Campgrounds near Rhinebeck provide access to cultural landmarks. "This campground also offers plenty to keep the whole family occupied... This year the most basic site with water costs $46... It was convenient for exploring the Hyde Park area, in particular the FDR National Historic Site (20-30 minutes away) and the Walkway over the Hudson," reports Jean C. of Interlake RV Park.
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Campers appreciate the raised platforms at Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground during wet weather. "They have both platform and dirt tent sites, all sites come equipped with fire pits. This campground was one of the best I've been to... The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection!" explains Rosie R.
Off-grid solitude: Alander Trail Campground offers true backcountry camping for those seeking quiet. "You have to park at the entrance and hike in about 1.5-2 miles with everything on your back to get to the spots. Once you get there, theres quite a few sites to choose from and each offer quite a bit or privacy," reports Kay D., adding "They give you a semi-flat area for a tent, a fire pit and grill rack, one picnic table, and a bear box."
Water recreation: Multiple lakes provide alternatives to hiking. As Seth K. describes Lake Taghkanic, "The campground has 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."
What you should know
Weekend crowding: During peak season, some parks experience significant visitor increases. "This was a truly great campground, but it's proximity to NYC draws large crowds on weekends," warns John E. about Copake Falls. "Not all, but some other campers were less than considerate of others and those who were at the site before us left a mess and threw their food into the fire pit."
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the region operate on limited schedules. Taconic State Park's Rudd Pond Area runs from May 27 to September 5, while North-South Lake operates May 19 to October 22. Copake Camping Resort maintains a May 9 to October 15 season.
Site selection matters: Different loops offer varied experiences. At North-South Lake Campground, "The sites are well spaced out," but Katherine P. notes about Rudd Pond, "The campsites are pretty close together, so if the campground is full, you are rather close to your neighbors."
Tips for camping with families
Quiet weekday visits: For a more peaceful experience with children, timing matters. "Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds," suggests one camper about North-South Lake, where facilities include "boating, showers, great hiking" according to Becky G.
Swimming options: Multiple swimming areas cater to different ages. At Rudd Pond, a camper noted, "There was a very large open grassy field for play/sports, a playground and life guarded portion of the lake for swimming. This location was very good for easing on first timers and there were quite a few children."
Budget-friendly stays: Some campgrounds offer reasonable rates for families. At Copake Falls, Christina M. shares, "Overall a great experience and relatively cheap for what you get. I believe it was around $30 for two nights which was the minimum."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Waubeeka Family Campground offers full service sites but with limited privacy. "Our site was more like camping in a Walmart parking lot with hookups," reports Randy B., while Frank D. adds, "Definitely more trailer park than campground."
Site selection strategy: At Copake Falls, Amanda S. advises, "This is basic dry camping it is fun but there is no electric or water at the sites only in the bathhouse. So if you get a site close the the bathhouse you will have water close by and electricity close."
Advance planning: During summer weekends, reservations are essential. As one visitor to Interlake RV Park noted, "This year the most basic site with water costs $46; add electric on up to sewer and cable tv and you'll pay as much as $60/night."
