Camping options near Averill Park, New York include several state parks and private campgrounds within a 40-mile radius. The area sits in the western foothills of the Taconic Mountains, with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,200 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during peak camping months, with cooler nights dropping to 55-65°F even in July and August.
What to do
Boating and fishing: Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground offers water recreation on a calm lake with minimal light pollution. "The lake is beautiful and clean. Expect to pay $15 fee (I think) to use your paddleboards / kayacks etc. Worth every penny," reports one visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Birdwatching opportunities abound at Schodack Island State Park Campground, where campers can explore observation blinds. "Excellent birding... Did see a juv eagle. Not time to fully explore," notes one reviewer who observed a variety of species during their stay.
Hiking trails: Multiple marked and unmarked trails wind through Taconic State Park, with connections to larger regional trail systems. "There is a lot of hiking in the area- def check out Bash Bish Falls!" suggests a camper who enjoyed exploring the park's natural features.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Many campers appreciate the privacy at Cherry Plain State Park Campground, especially in the less-trafficked areas. "We love the loop of sites near the entrance near the water for views but close to the bathroom, ranger station, and trails. Farther from the beach so there is less impact from the day visitors," shares a repeat visitor.
Clean facilities: Bathrooms and shower facilities receive high marks at many campgrounds. "The bathrooms are clean. The place is quiet. The camps are well kept. Some camp sites are very small but others are really good," notes a Cherry Plain State Park visitor.
Family-friendly amenities: Playgrounds, beaches, and organized activities make camping with children enjoyable. At Mt. Greylock Campsite Park, "The rec room had some nicely maintained games (pool table, ping pong, air hockey, and more). The caretakers were very friendly and helpful."
What you should know
Tent platforms: Several parks offer wooden platforms for tent camping, providing advantages during wet weather. "The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection!" explains a Lake Taghkanic camper after experiencing rainfall during their trip.
Water access varies: While some sites have full hookups, others require filling tanks at central locations. At Fernwood Forest Campground, "You can get a site with just water, or electric and water. Can do RV or tent."
Site selection matters: Reviews consistently emphasize researching specific site characteristics before booking. "I'd get sites near the water because those ones are the nice ones. Sites a decently spread out," advises a Cherry Plain State Park visitor.
Shower facilities: Shower setups differ between parks, with varying levels of privacy and water temperature control. "Showers are hot and there's great water pressure. The cleanliness of the bathrooms depends on how busy the campground is," notes a Lake Taghkanic camper.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Several parks feature swimming areas with designated beaches. "Great beach, 5 minute drive from campgound. Clean facilities, with a rec room for rainy days. A camp store with all the supplies you might have forgotten," mentions a Lake Taghkanic visitor.
Rainy day options: When weather doesn't cooperate, indoor recreation spaces provide alternatives. Mt. Greylock Campsite Park offers "several games including air hockey, foosball, pool and board games. All are free and we enjoyed them."
Wildlife encounters: Animal sightings create memorable experiences for children. Schodack Island State Park features "many 'exotic' birds... We had frequent visits from Gray Catbirds, and I saw a glimpse of a Bald Eagle through the treeline."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV sites near Averill Park vary in levelness. At Dorset RV Park, "Our site was level but some definitely were not," cautions a camper, suggesting researching specific sites before arrival.
Navigation concerns: RV campers should plan routes carefully when accessing certain campgrounds. Navigating Alpine Lake RV Resort requires patience as "the roads are narrow and many should be one way, but are not. It would have been impossible many places in the grounds to pass a rig on the road due to the amount of other's vehicles, golf carts, decorations etc."
Utility connections: Electric service ranges from 30 to 50 amp depending on the campground. Arrowhead Marina & RV Park accommodates larger RVs with "Well maintained, located on the Mohawk River. Shady, grassy areas. Boat launch and pier."
Seasonal limitations: Most rv sites near Averill Park, New York operate on seasonal schedules, typically May through October. Alpine Lake RV Resort operates "May 6 to October 10" while Arrowhead Marina & RV Park runs from "May 15 - Oct 15," requiring advance planning for shoulder season visits.
