Camping options near Cherry Plain, New York include several RV-friendly parks within a 30-mile radius. The region features elevations ranging from 900 to 2,600 feet, creating varied terrain with pockets of mixed forests. Winter closures typically begin by mid-October, with some parks experiencing spring mud season through late April that can complicate access on unpaved roads.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Jamaica State Park Campground, visitors can access Hamilton Falls via a 3-mile trail. "We hiked the west river trail (which leads right out of the campground) to Hamilton falls which is a gravel closed road that follows the west river upstream 2 miles to Hamilton falls trail which then leads up hill for another mile to the falls. People have lost their lives at these falls so be extra cautious with children," notes Chris D.
Fishing in stocked ponds: Rudd Pond Area — Taconic State Park offers shoreline and boat fishing opportunities. "The sites were a little close together, but being able to fish and catching 2 decent-sized largemouth bass made everything all ok!! There is plenty of fishing access from shore and you can rent a boat for the whole day to fish on the water," reports Rosie R.
Exploring mountain trails: During summer, nearby Mount Greylock provides multiple difficulty levels of hiking. "This was our favorite spot so far this summer. Sites were large and wooded. Great access to Mt Greylock and LOTS of hiking close by. Staff was so accommodating-always willing to spend time giving recommendations," shares Stephanie from Mt. Greylock Campsite Park.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Fernwood Forest Campground offers a peaceful environment away from busier parks. "Clean, quiet and well maintained. Only downside is the showers are literally in the same space as the pooper stalls in the washroom. Washroom incredibly clean though," notes TJ H.
Access to water recreation: Many campers appreciate the swimming areas available in summer. "The campsites were beautiful with the river behind us. Not to many people there so we're got the best spot. The bathrooms are sanitary and are not port-a-potties. For us, they also had a playground to play at, and a boat dock to kayak," writes Meike W. about Jamaica State Park.
Clean facilities: Cleanliness stands out as a consistent positive. "The bathroom facilities, while rustic, were clean. There is a plethora of things to do in the park itself and in the local community. Nonetheless, it starts and ends with the management of the campground. Lauren, the campground manager, and her team of professionals, do a great job," notes Keith L. about his experience at Jamaica State Park.
What you should know
Off-season availability: Most RV campgrounds near Cherry Plain close between October and May. "Our stay at Mt. Greylock Campsite Park was our maiden voyage for travel trailer camping and we couldn't have asked for a better first experience. The owners were SUPER helpful and friendly. Really looking forward to going back once COVID travel restrictions are lifted," reports Alison.
Site challenges: Many campsites require leveling due to terrain. "Terrain is uneven. Hit and miss on how flat or level sites are," notes Ray P. about Spacious Skies Woodland Hills.
Proximity considerations: Sites at some campgrounds offer limited privacy. "Sites are pretty tight together. If your site neighbors are in their spots already when you arrive it will probably be hard to navigate unless you have a 20' rig," cautions a camper about navigating in certain parks.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "Nice little weekend getaway. Clean bathrooms, roomy tent sites, nice staff. Fun playground and nature area for kids. Very family friendly place with beautiful hikes to Hamilton falls," shares Fransheska A. about Jamaica State Park.
Swimming options: Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground provides beach swimming from Memorial Day through Labor Day. "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," explains Mary-Kate L.
Indoor recreation: Some parks offer rainy day alternatives. "Great beach, 5 minute drive from campground. Clean facilities, with a rec room for rainy days. A camp store with all the supplies you might have forgotten," mentions Kurt S. about Lake Taghkanic.
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: Many RV campgrounds near Cherry Plain have tight turns and narrow roads requiring careful maneuvering. "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... so patience is important when arriving and departing," advises April L. from Alpine Lake RV Resort.
Site selection: Back-in sites often require planning. "We had a back in site and was having problems with my camper, and they were able to change to a pull through at time of check in. However, it was in early May and before the summer crowds," notes Ann B. about Spacious Skies Woodland Hills.
Water pressure fluctuations: Some parks experience utility variations during peak usage. "Had an issue with water pressure on Saturday around 10am and called the office to make sure there was not a known water issue. Front desk knew nothing and said they would send maintenance but we never saw anyone. The situation improved so we think it was just a high demand time of day," shares a reviewer about RV utilities.
