Cabin camping near Chatham, New York offers diverse lodging options across Columbia County and neighboring areas. The region sits in the Hudson Valley at approximately 600 feet elevation, with the nearby Taconic Mountains creating a varied landscape of hills, forests, and waterways. Seasonal temperature fluctuations affect cabin availability, with most properties closing from late October through early May due to cold Northeastern winters.
What to Do
Swimming access: Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground has two lifeguarded swimming areas including "a kiddie pool and a deep area with floating dock to jump off of," according to Erin B. The park offers cabins alongside lakefront recreation from May through mid-October.
Waterfall hiking: At Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park, cabin guests can take "a short hike across state lines into Mass" to reach Bash Bish Falls. One visitor notes, "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."
Creek relaxation: During warmer months, some cabins provide direct water access. A visitor to Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds mentioned being "right on the creek" and "took our chairs and plopped down in the water." The campground operates from May through mid-October with both basic and full-hookup cabin options.
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness stands out at several properties. A visitor to Treetopia Campground reported, "It's obvious that the campground recently underwent major renovation the bathrooms and showers are out of this world! Best of any campground we've ever visited!"
Platform sites: Some cabin areas feature raised platforms that help with weather challenges. A Lake Taghkanic camper explained, "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!"
Secluded options: Cabin privacy varies widely between properties. At Bonnie Brae Cabins and Campsites, one visitor found it "a compact, clean campground tucked at the end of a quiet neighborhood street, within walking distance to a lake." The campground operates May 1 to October 15 with cabins that include AC and small refrigerators.
What You Should Know
Cabin variations: Rental units range from basic to full-service. At October Mountain State Forest Campground, "There are 3 yurts available May-October (no dogs allowed in the yurts). There are several tent sits available. Dogs are welcomed here! Every site has a fire pit and a picnic table."
Weekend crowds: Proximity to major cities affects weekend availability. One Taconic visitor advised, "This was a truly great campground, but it's proximity to NYC draws large crowds on weekends." Another noted, "Very close to your neighbor in this area but when we were there everyone was very respectful."
Wildlife encounters: Cabins provide more protection than tents, but local wildlife remains active. A camper warned, "Be sure to put your tent on the woodchips and not the leaves, otherwise you will have chipmunks running under your heads."
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly areas: Multiple cabin campgrounds cater specifically to families. Waubeeka Family Campground offers "free paddle board, kayak, pedal boat rentals, and an inflatable water obstacle course. They frequently do large bon fires and music on the weekends."
First-timer friendly: For those new to cabin camping, certain properties provide easier experiences. At Taconic State Park, one visitor shared, "This place had quite a few amenities I am not use to! We stayed at a platform tent site and were able to park two vehicles on site. There was potable water a short walking distance away as well as flushing toilets."
Recreation facilities: On-site activities keep children entertained. A visitor to Dingman's Family Campground praised its family focus, noting, "Decent campground right on the Delaware river, definitely family oriented in the warmer months, lots of families with young children."
Tips from RVers
Deck sites: Some properties feature specialized cabin areas for smaller vehicles. At Treetopia, a camper recommended: "We stayed on one of their deck sites with our Class B (Winnebago). I LOVED sitting out on the deck every morning for my coffee while taking in the fall air."
Hookup variations: RV-focused cabins typically provide more amenities. Copake Camping Resort (formerly Copake KOA) offers "a mix of site types in both full sun and shaded areas. They also have many nice cabins on site," though a visitor noted the property "needs some TLC on the 4 sites like this that they offer."
Service options: For cabin guests with RVs, utility access varies. Treetopia offers "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."
