Seasonal camping options near Brewster, New York vary significantly from April through December. The area sits between the Hudson Highlands and the western edge of Connecticut, with elevations ranging from 500-1,100 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with higher humidity levels than inland locations, while fall brings temperatures between 45-65°F with vibrant foliage displays.
What to do
Swimming and beach access: Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground offers a clean swimming beach with lifeguard supervision during peak season. "The park has a nice open beach on Canopus Lake with a concession area and bathhouse, which we found to be quite clean! They even have boat rentals - or you can bring your own boat to launch!" shared a camper at Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple ponds and lakes provide fishing options for various species. "There is another lake and two ponds that our neighbor campers said were great for catching panfish - one fisherman said he had caught several bass weighing over 3 pounds!" reported a visitor to Clarence Fahnestock. Another camper at Rudd Pond Area — Taconic State Park noted, "The sites were a little close together, but being able to fish and catching 2 decent-sized largemouth bass made everything all ok!"
Hiking trails: Several parks offer hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging. At Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park, a camper shared, "There is a constant buzz in the air of conversation, music, laughter and shrieking toddlers." For more secluded options, "The trails in the area are friendly to hikers, bikers, and the non arthritic kneers, as most are rated moderate to challenging."
What campers like
Tent platforms: Several campgrounds offer raised tent platforms that provide benefits during wet weather. At Lake Taghkanic State Park, a camper mentioned, "They have both platform and dirt tent sites, all sites come equipped with fire pits." Another reviewer added, "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 sites: Site selection matters for privacy levels at Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground. "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site," noted a camper at Clarence Fahnestock. Another shared, "Almost all of the sites offered privacy.... Even when the campground was full."
Wildlife viewing: Multiple parks offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. "The creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish," wrote a visitor to Thousand Trails Rondout Valley. At Croton Point Park, a camper advised, "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night."
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Water access and facilities availability changes throughout the year. At Lake Taghkanic, operating dates run "May 6 to October 15" while Clarence Fahnestock extends from "April 15 to December 4." A visitor to Croton Point Park noted, "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite."
Bathroom conditions: Facility maintenance varies by park and season. "The bathrooms and showers were also pretty clean too. Lots of water spickets throughout the ground," reported a Beaver Pond camper. However, at Croton Point, a visitor found "Clean but a bit dated. No shelves or hooks for toiletries."
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons, early booking is essential. "This place can book up during camping season in the Northeast so make sure to book early in advance," advised a Clarence Fahnestock visitor. Similarly, a camper at Black Bear RV Park noted their reservation process: "Rita who helped make our reservation is a treasure. Extremely helpful!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated play areas for children. At Thousand Trails Rondout Valley, a visitor noted, "This campground is great. Lots of activities a pool access, food court and basketball courts." Another shared, "It offers a pool, playground, and activities that include bocce ball, shuffleboard, and horseshoes."
Wildlife education opportunities: Streams and ponds provide nature learning experiences. A Rondout Valley visitor observed, "The creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish." Similarly at Beaver Pond, "Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint."
Noise considerations: Weekend sound levels can impact family camping experiences. "During quiet hours (10pm-7am) on both Friday and Saturday nights," things were peaceful at Fahnestock according to one visitor. However, another camper at Beaver Pond cautioned, "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."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger RVs: Choose campgrounds that accommodate bigger rigs. At Black Bear RV Park, a visitor reported, "Back-in and pull through sites and can accommodate large rigs. A little expensive but everything is included." This park offers "full hookup RV sites with water, sewer, and electric connections."
Winter camping options: Limited rv sites near Brewster, New York remain open year-round. Black Bear RV Park operates "All year" according to their listing. One winter visitor shared, "We are returning to the south after spending a couple months of fall in New England. We have short driving days and we try stop after every couple hundred miles for one night at a time, just to sleep, shower and eat."
Utility hookup variations: Electric amperage and connections differ between parks. At Interlake RV Park & Campground, a visitor noted their site was "priced very reasonably for full hook up." Another camper at Black Bear mentioned, "Basic sites with full hookups for about $80 a night. All the buildings are closed due to Covid, so no laundry & no bathroom."
