Camping options near Croton-on-Hudson extend throughout the Hudson Valley region, with elevations ranging from 100 to 1,300 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds in this area are situated within deciduous forests dominated by oak, maple, and hickory trees. The camping season typically runs April through October, with average summer temperatures between 75-85°F during peak camping months.
What to do
Fishing access points: Beaver Pond Campground at Harriman State Park offers multiple fishing spots along its waterways. "You can find some of the Appalachian Trail, with various smaller trail heads for this historic part of the region including the one to Doodle Town. Long since the last resident left, the area is a ruins with markers showing where a house was," notes Steve W.
Swimming beaches: Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground features a clean swimming area with summer lifeguards. "The park has a nice open beach on Canopus Lake with a concession area and bathhouse, which we found to be quite clean! They even have boat rentals - or you can bring your own boat to launch," says Shelly B.
Off-season activities: Many campgrounds transform during fall with foliage viewing opportunities. "We make a habit of going during the end-of-summer/fall when you can watch the leaves change along the hiking trails, go apple and pumpkin picking near the campsites, and eat some scrumptious apple cinnamon doughnuts," reports Robyn S.
What campers like
Proximity to NYC transportation: Liberty Harbor RV Park in Jersey City provides urban camping with transit connections. "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8. Staff is average, as this is not meant to be high end. They are nice but a bit rough," explains Joe R.
Wooded privacy: Many campers appreciate the natural seclusion at certain sites. "Beaver Pond has an eclectic little campground. 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," writes Steve W.
Recreation amenities: Thousand Trails Rondout Valley provides additional recreation beyond camping. "It offers a pool, playground, and activities that include bocce ball, shuffleboard, and horseshoes. The creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish," says Kasey M.
What you should know
Winter availability limitations: Most campgrounds close after November. Black Bear RV Park stays open year-round but with reduced services. "It's one of the few places along our route that was open for RVs in the off season. We have short driving days and we try stop after every couple hundred miles," mentions Gabbie Y.
Wildlife encounters: Bears frequent many campsites in the region. "Welcome to Bear Mountain grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! The atmosphere is complete with spider webs covering the walk up window. 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," reports Steve W.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience significant noise. "We were in site number 1, and I found it to be just wooded enough. Almost all of the sites offered privacy. Even when the campground was full. I do feel the campground bathhouse really needed more attention," states Shelly B.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Reserve early for family-friendly spots. "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site. This place can book up during camping season in the Northeast so make sure to book early in advance," advises Asher K.
Platform camping benefits: Beaver Pond Campground features elevated tent platforms. "The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. You definitely feel like you have your own space and are not camping on top of your neighbor. Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained," shares Ethan K.
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's facilities. "Short distance from NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," notes Zorina N.
Tips from RVers
NYC access planning: RV parks with good NYC access require special driving routes. "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze," recommends Joe R.
Overnight transit options: Tri-State RV Park offers convenient overnight stops. "This place is unique by location alone! We stopped for two nights on our way to CT. They have an onsite buffet with live entertainment if your timing is right. They are also located right on a river that you can easily access by foot," shares Brittany V.
Winter hookup considerations: RV parks near Croton-on-Hudson may have reduced winter services. "Unfortunately at this site, the heated water pipe was broken so we had no water for the night. I imagine that camping here during the regular season is a much better experience," notes Gabbie Y.
