Camping spots near Dover Plains, New York extend across the Taconic Mountain region with elevation changes affecting temperatures throughout the camping season. During summer months, higher elevation sites experience temperatures 5-10 degrees cooler than valley locations. Cell service is spotty throughout the region, with most campgrounds reporting limited to no coverage except at specific locations like entrance buildings or lookout points.
What to do
Hiking at Taconic State Park: The Copake Falls Area offers varied terrain with the popular Bash Bish Falls trail crossing state lines into Massachusetts. "There was a very large open grassy field for play/sports, a playground and life guarded portion of the lake for swimming. This location was very accesible to the Bish Bash Falls trail and even had a few side trails to explore," notes Christina M. from Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park.
Water activities on Lake Waramaug: The lake provides multiple water recreation options throughout the summer. "The lake is great for kayaking, paddle boarding, canoes and for fishing. Bring your own gear but kayak and canoe rentals are available. The swim area is marginal- best for little ones," advises G.Y. from Lake Waramaug State Park Campground.
Bird watching at Macedonia Brook: The diverse terrain supports various bird species and wildlife viewing opportunities. "Delighted to find this facility on our return trip from Maine to NC. We camped next to the brook and one couldn't have had a much better experience! Had supper in nearby Kent which is a fantastic small village," reports Ford S. from Macedonia Brook State Park Campground.
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: Several campgrounds offer minimal light pollution for night sky viewing. "Well spaced sites. No bathhouse, just portable toilets and a few water pumps. And a night sky as dark as you can find in CT," notes Kate from Macedonia Brook State Park.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple camping areas provide access to fishing in rivers, ponds, and lakes. "Kids caught about 20 fish. The pool is nice, no deep end. It's very hilly. A golf cart is recommended if your site is far from the pool," shares Rino S. from Cozy Hills Campground.
Midweek solitude: Many campgrounds report dramatically different experiences between weekend and weekday visits. "Hardly anyone around, we had a site right next to the stream. The loop hike over the mountains was good, at times more intermediate than beginner and I wouldn't try to go it with younger kids," explains Marque D. about Macedonia Brook.
What you should know
Train noise affects riverside locations: Campgrounds along the Hudson River experience regular train disruptions. "It was situated right across the Hudson River from a highly active nighttime freight train route, and the noise from the horns and then being awake for a few minutes as the train clattered by," reports Rebecca Y. from Mills Norrie State Park Campground.
Wildlife encounters are common: Bear activity requires proper food storage at several campgrounds. "I stayed there for a night and it was very quiet and very safe. Our camp spot was right above the river the flows behind this spot. You can go sit down by the water. But be careful! As we were walking back up to our tent there was a small bear within feet from us that we almost didn't see," warns Catina C. about Macedonia Brook.
Limited amenities at some sites: Several campgrounds operate with minimal facilities. "99% off people don't even know this area exists. If you want a quiet piece of beautiful forest to truly rough it and go camping for a few days, then this is what you have been looking for," explains Doc B. about Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Various swimming areas cater specifically to children. "There is a very large open grassy field for play/sports, a playground and life guarded portion of the lake for swimming," notes Christina M. about the Copake Falls Area.
Activities for different ages: Some campgrounds offer programmed events for children. "Lots and lots of activities for kids! Arts & Crafts, Arcade, Bingo, Casino Night etc. Pool is very nice for families - with no deep end, really safe for younger kids," shares Ann S. from Cozy Hills Campground.
Scout-friendly locations: Several sites accommodate group camping needs. "Where can I begin the place is great it's perfect for teaching scouts of all ages how to take and prepare for the wilderness survival badges place is clean it has running water has a porta potty," explains Merle S. from Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds have varied site layouts requiring careful selection. "It took me a while to identify a campground that was convenient for exploring the Hyde Park area, in particular the FDR National Historic Site (20-30 minutes away) and the Walkway over the Hudson," notes Jean C. from Interlake RV Park & Campground.
Hookup variations: Water and electric service differs between campgrounds. "Very nice facilities. Most of the short-term sites are on a separate loop from the seasonals, which made for a nice short-term community. Sites are well maintained, with fresh wood chips and groomed gravel," reports Jon R. about Cozy Hills Campground.
Terrain challenges: Several campgrounds feature significant elevation changes. "It's very hilly. A golf cart is recommended if your site is far from the pool," advises Rino S. about navigating Cozy Hills Campground.
