Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground sits at 562 feet elevation in New York's Hudson Valley between the Catskills and Berkshires. The eastern Catskill Mountain region features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 600 to 4,180 feet, creating microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the season. Tent platforms at many sites help campers stay dry during the region's frequent summer afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Taconic State Park offers direct trail access to Bash Bish Falls, the highest waterfall in Massachusetts at 60 feet. "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., who appreciated returning to proper facilities after a day outdoors.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear night skies provide excellent viewing conditions, especially over water. "Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low," reports Seth K., who visited Lake Taghkanic in October.
Swimming and water activities: Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground maintains supervised swimming areas with clean water. "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," shares george L.
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Raised wooden platforms at several campgrounds provide practical advantages during wet weather. "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!" explains Rosie R. about her experience at Lake Taghkanic.
Clean facilities: Brookside Campground maintains well-kept restrooms according to visitors. "Nice and clean restrooms very friendly staff I would come back here again and recommended," notes Engin C., highlighting the importance of basic amenities for campers.
Animal encounters: Several campgrounds feature small farm animals that delight younger campers. "Quain little campground, nice pool, large activities field, some things for kids to do. Small farm right next to our site, goats, cow chickens, ducks, geese," describes David R., who stayed at Brookside Campground.
What you should know
Weekday vs. weekend experiences: Crowds change dramatically between weekdays and weekends at popular sites. "The park offered many activities or just sit around the campsite drinking beers and reminiscing our youth days. We went on weekdays which is not crowded," advises george L. about Lake Taghkanic.
Water usage fees: Some parks charge additional fees for water equipment. "Expect to pay $15 fee (I think) to use your paddleboards / kyacks etc. Worth every penny," mentions Mellisa T. about Lake Taghkanic State Park.
Site selection matters: Spacious Skies Woodland Hills and other campgrounds have variable site conditions even within the same facility. "Terrain is uneven. Hit and miss on how flat or leave sights are," warns Ray P., while another visitor notes, "The site I had was steep grade from steps to picnic table. Flat ground area for camper was very narrow. Tricky footing for older folks like my wife and I."
Tips for camping with families
Pool alternatives: When campground pools close or become crowded, seek other water options. "The pool is being renovated so it is currently closed," reports Amy G. about Spacious Skies Woodland Hills, but adds, "there are so many places to hike and the best of the Berkshires so close by."
Kid-friendly activities: Whispering Timbers Glamping offers a more secluded glamping in Catskill, New York option with just two sites, perfect for families seeking privacy. "Whispering Timbers is a new glamping site on the Dyrt," notes Jake C., highlighting this emerging option for families seeking exclusive accommodations.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "Big and spacious state park with many camping options. Has options for trailers, tent sites, platforms for tents and even some cabins. Small store in park that sells firewood and ice and a few other things you may need. Big lake with swimming and boating as well as many hiking trails," describes Mary-Kate L. about Lake Taghkanic.
Tips from RVers
Late arrivals: Some campgrounds accommodate after-hours check-in. "They allow late check ins!" notes Jennie about Spacious Skies Woodland Hills, a helpful feature for travelers covering long distances.
Site grade challenges: Blue Mountain Campground and others have terrain issues RVers should prepare for. "The tent site are very richly and uneven, it was very hard to pitch a tent," warns Yolanda T., a consideration that affects both tent campers and RV leveling.
Hookup options: Campgrounds offer varied levels of services, affecting where you can park. "For RV, they have 30/50 amp with electric and water. There is no sewer, but they have a dump-station and on-site Honeywagon truck that you can schedule," explains Jeff & Steff's Excellent Adventure about luxury glamping at Treetopia Campground.
