Camping spots near Cropseyville, New York include numerous options throughout the Taconic and Berkshire mountain regions at elevations ranging from 300 to 2,800 feet. The camping season typically runs May through October, with most facilities closing after mid-October due to freezing temperatures and snowfall. Weather patterns create distinct microclimates between valley campgrounds and those at higher elevations, where temperatures can differ by 10-15 degrees.
What to do
Hiking at Mount Greylock: Access numerous trails from Sperry Road Campground, including sections of the Appalachian Trail. One camper noted, "Trails also leave here and head to the summit of Greylock or to the Stony Ledge Overlook." The summit offers views across multiple states.
Kayaking and fishing: Many campgrounds provide water access for paddling. At Woodford State Park, "The reservoir is beautiful - plenty of space to spread out for paddling and swimming. We had no issues with noise from other campers." The park features a designated campers' beach for dogs.
Bird watching: Several campgrounds maintain wildlife viewing areas. At Schodack Island State Park, one visitor mentioned, "Best part was hiking out to a couple of different blinds to look for birds. Did see a juv eagle." Early morning hours (5-8am) typically offer the best wildlife sightings.
Swimming in natural settings: Many campgrounds maintain swimming areas on lakes or ponds. Cherry Plain State Park Campground offers a beach area on its pond. According to one camper, "The view is great. My site was amazing. No close neighbors. Lots of space."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Schodack Island State Park gets high marks for site layout. "The state did an excellent job designing sites with dense foliage as sound and site barriers creating good privacy for campers." Sites include electric hookups with 30/50 amp service.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in this region maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. At Mt. Greylock Campsite Park, "The bathhouse was incredibly clean. Showers were great. The pool was cold, but really nice and again very clean." Multiple reviews mention bathroom cleanliness as a standout feature.
Natural surroundings: Many campers appreciate the forested settings. One visitor to Pittsfield State Forest noted, "The sites were large and wooded. Great access to Mt Greylock and LOTS of hiking close by." The forest canopy provides shade during summer months.
Quiet atmosphere: Most campgrounds enforce noise restrictions after 10pm. At Cherry Plain State Park, a camper mentioned, "It was nice and calm at the campground. The staff were nice and the pond was beautiful. Very quiet and relaxing." Weekday stays typically offer the quietest experience.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds have limited seasons. Cherry Plain State Park Campground operates "May 23 to Labor Day" while others like Woodford State Park run "Memorial Day weekend to Columbus Day weekend." Always check current operating dates before planning a trip.
Cell service limitations: Several campgrounds have limited connectivity. At Cherry Plain State Park, "Don't expect any cell service or internet, but the site is close enough to town if you need." Some campgrounds only get 1-3 bars of service depending on carrier.
Terrain challenges: Many campgrounds feature hilly terrain. At Mt. Greylock Campsite Park, "The camp has a lot of hills and some are pretty steep. We always bring our bikes and love to bike through the campgrounds, but this one is not good for biking."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially on weekends. Sites with water views book fastest. According to a Schodack Island visitor, "Sites within 200 feet of the bathrooms. The bathrooms have good showers and were very clean during our stay."
Tips for camping with families
Look for organized activities: Adventure Bound Camping Resort offers extensive facilities for children. "The kids loved love water attractions. Our site was large and shaded." The resort runs scheduled activities throughout summer weekends.
Consider water features: Ponds and swimming areas keep kids engaged. At Aqua Vista Valley Campgrounds, they offer "hayrides, many activities, themed weekends. Activities going on all the time. Great place for family and kids."
Seek campgrounds with playgrounds: Several parks maintain play equipment. At Woodford State Park, one camper noted, "Great for families! There are tons of different types of campsites with either tent spots, lean-tos, and a few (hard to get) cabins." The park also has "a really awesome playground."
Watch for wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids often enjoy animal sightings. At Pine Hollow Campground, families can enjoy "a small pond that is fun to fish and swim in. The sites are all set up around the pond." The campground is described as "pet friendly" and "great for families."
Tips from RVers
Watch for site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Pittsfield State Forest, "Some of the sites are up hills and might be difficult for some to park their trailers. We watched a fifth wheel try to back up a hill and then turn into a site and couldn't get a grip because of the incline and the loose gravel."
Check access road conditions: Some campgrounds have narrow or steep entry roads. One RVer at Mt. Greylock Campsite Park noted that some sites "look like they were bigger sites that were then split, but now are two or three separate sites sharing an entryway."
Verify hookup availability: Hookup options vary widely between campgrounds. At Schodack Island State Park, "RV sites offer 30/50 amp electricity. There are several hiking trails, a bike trail, a really awesome playground, boat dock, and lots of picnicking."
Consider dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer on-site dump stations. When available, they're typically located near the exit. At Schodack Island State Park, there's a "dump station on the way out" and "lots of water fill ups in the campground."
