Camping near Bellvale, New York offers varied terrain with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,200 feet throughout the region. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Winter camping options are limited, with only a few facilities like Black Bear RV Park maintaining year-round operations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Welch at Beaver Pond Campground provides fishing access during warmer months. "The campsites are a bit close to one another but if you have a big group you can book several sites near each other and have a great time with family and friends. The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping. Hike trails are all over the place and the lake is nearby," notes Kelvin in his review.
Swimming facilities: Several campgrounds in the area offer seasonal swimming options through early fall. "The grounds are just steps away from Welch Lake, offering a lifeguard monitored sandy beach which is open during the summer season for swimming, fishing, and small boat craft further out," explains Steve W. about Beaver Pond Campground.
City day trips: Liberty Harbor RV Park serves as a convenient base for exploring New York City attractions. "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room," advises Keith and Tia S. The park sits minutes from public transportation options into Manhattan.
What campers like
Farm animal interactions: Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort offers unique livestock experiences not found at typical campgrounds. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool. Weekend was busy as usual but during the week it seems to be seasonal that stay," mentions Faith D. in her review.
Less crowded weekdays: Most campgrounds in the region report significantly reduced occupancy during weekdays compared to weekends. "Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great," notes Rebecca S. about Beaver Pond Campground.
Accessible recreation: Many sites feature on-site activities for all ages. "They have an onsite buffet with live entertainment if your timing is right. They are also located right on a river that you can easily access by foot," writes Brittany V. about Tri-State RV Park.
What you should know
Highway noise considerations: Several RV parks in the region sit near major highways, creating ambient noise. "Located just off the highway so lots of vehicle noise 24/7. Sites are on a gravel lot. Restrooms are clean. Not much else to say about this CG, is just a parking lot with hookups," explains Michael H. about Tri-State RV Park.
Limited off-season facilities: Many campgrounds reduce services significantly outside summer months. "The restrooms were closed for the winter, so we didn't get to use or see those. They have a small playground that would be better suited for older children, and there's also a nice lounge room with games, a pool table, a tv and puzzles/board games," reports HomegrownRV about Mountain Top RV Park.
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity occurs throughout the area, particularly in more wooded campgrounds. "Welcome to Bear Mountain grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He is in his ranger hut, checking in the late evening arrivals to the campground... He offers us a highlighted map to our site, wishes us a good stay, and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area," shares Steve W. about camping at Beaver Pond.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Multiple campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children of varying ages. "The family-friendly atmosphere was evident through the thoughtfully designed property, including an updated pool, playground, game room, and a brand-new pickleball court that added a unique touch to the stay," notes Jason G. about Mountain Top RV Park.
Budget-friendly options: State park campgrounds typically offer lower rates than private facilities. "This is an off-grid camping experience. You can use your generator at certain hours. They have a beach. Their staff is friendly. I love going here," writes Adaly about Beaver Pond Campground, where sites start at just $15 per night.
Organized activities: Look for campgrounds with scheduled programming for children. "This campground is great. Lots of activities a pool access, food court and basketball courts," mentions Kaitlin B. about Thousand Trails Rondout Valley.
Tips from RVers
Satellite and communication challenges: Verify cell service availability before booking. "There must be new management because many upgrades have been made over the past year which include all new SWE (full hookups) street lighting, and campground markings/numbering," reports Scott about Thousand Trails Rondout Valley, indicating infrastructure improvements are ongoing at some facilities.
Dump station accessibility: Not all RV camping near Bellvale, New York offers sewer connections at individual sites. "They have a dump station, but not the easiest to use. The laundry was not working properly and ate a good $5 of our quarters," reports Shawn B. about Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Travel routing concerns: Larger RVs should plan arrival routes carefully due to area terrain. "When you leave you have to drive the wrong way in the campground because of the low hanging trees the correct direction," cautions Bill B. about Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort, highlighting navigation challenges even within campground boundaries.
