RV parks around Congers, New York operate primarily between April and November due to the Northeast's seasonal climate. The area sits within the Hudson Valley region at elevations ranging from 200-800 feet above sea level, with campgrounds often positioned along wooded hillsides. Cell service typically weakens at higher elevations, particularly in the more remote campgrounds west of Congers.
What to do
Swimming access: Harriman State Park's Beaver Pond Campground offers a sandy beach with lifeguards during summer months. "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," notes Steve W.
Historic exploration: Revolutionary War sites are accessible from many campgrounds. The trails near Beaver Pond lead to historic areas dating to the 1770s, as one camper explains: "The trails in the area are friendly to hikers, bikers, and the non arthritic kneers, as most are rated moderate to challenging... They offer stunning views of the changing foliage, quick glances at the Hudson River and the rolling hills of the area."
Fishing opportunities: Many nearby parks feature multiple fishing locations for various skill levels. "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," reports a camper at Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground.
What campers like
Platform camping: Raised wooden platforms at some campgrounds provide comfort during wet conditions. "Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained or if you are expecting rain during your stay," notes Ethan K. about Beaver Pond. "I also particularly enjoyed the communal sink which made it very convenient and easy to wash dishes and fill up water."
City proximity: Liberty Harbor RV Park serves as a strategic base for NYC exploration. "Very plain & functional, no frills but right on the harbor & on the very edge of Jersey City, close to a ferry & the train that takes u across to New York City," explains Emily L. "We brought scooters & had a great stay! Plus you can see the Statue of Liberty from there!"
Off-season tranquility: Many campgrounds offer peaceful experiences outside peak summer months. "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. "Facilities were clean and what you'd expect from a campground."
What you should know
Bear activity: Wildlife encounters are common, particularly in Harriman State Park. "'Welcome to Bear Mountain' grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness," recounts Steve W. about Beaver Pond 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."
Highway noise: Several campgrounds sit close to major roadways. At Tri-State RV Park, "Located just off the highway so lots of vehicle noise 24/7. Sites are on a gravel lot. Restrooms are clean... is just a parking lot with hookups," according to Michael H.
Seasonal closures: Most campground facilities close during winter months. Gabbie Y. notes about winter camping: "They currently only accept reservations over the phone... It was more expensive than places we usually stay, and none of their amenities/buildings were open... As it seems to be rare to find open campgrounds for winter camping, this is probably a good option."
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At Thousand Trails Rondout Valley, "It offers a pool, playground, and activities that include bocce ball, shuffleboard, and horseshoes," according to Kasey M. "The creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish."
Affordable options: Some state parks offer budget-friendly camping close to NYC. "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," states Adaly about Beaver Pond, adding it costs "just $15."
Site selection matters: Research specific campsites before booking. "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site," explains Asher K. about Clarence Fahnestock. "This place can book up during camping season in the Northeast so make sure to book early in advance."
Tips from RVers
Electric service variations: Black Bear RV Park provides full hookups year-round but with seasonal limitations. "Basic sites with full hookups for about $80 a night. All the buildings are closed due to Covid, so no laundry & no bathroom," notes one reviewer identified as P. While facilities may have reopened, winter restrictions frequently limit service availability.
Level site availability: Mountain Top RV Park offers accommodations for larger rigs. "If you're booking, it may be best to book on the upper levels because the lower area where we were did flood pretty bad a couple times when there was a lot of rain," advises HomegrownRV.
Dump station access: Access for larger rigs varies significantly between parks. "They have hook ups and big laundry room," notes Erc L. about Liberty Harbor. Another camper adds: "There is a dump station, but not the easiest to use. The laundry was not working properly and ate a good $5 of our quarters."
