RV parks near Elmsford offer a range of camping experiences within the Hudson Valley region, set among the rolling Westchester County hills where elevations range from 200-500 feet above sea level. Fall camping season typically runs from early September through late October, with average overnight temperatures dropping from 65°F to 45°F as the season progresses. Most RV campgrounds in the area require advance reservations, especially during peak foliage season when sites fill quickly.
What to do
Outdoor activities at Fahnestock State Park: The park offers multiple water activities beyond just camping. "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! If you are into fishing, there is another lake and two ponds that our neighbor campers said were great for catching panfish," notes a visitor to Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground.
Hudson Valley hiking access: Several campgrounds serve as convenient baselines for regional trails. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," shares one camper about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. The reservation offers trail connections within 10-15 minutes of most campsites.
Seasonal apple picking: Fall visitors can enjoy orchards near several campgrounds. "If you are in to apple picking it is a short drive and it is easy to get into town to take the train to and from NYC," comments a camper about their stay at Fahnestock State Park. Many orchards open for picking from early September through late October, with peak times for different apple varieties.
What campers like
Train access to NYC: Several campgrounds offer convenient public transit connections. A camper at Croton Point Park notes "the train station is right there!" making it easy to access Manhattan without driving. Similarly, at Liberty Harbor RV Park, "the light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8," providing multiple transit options.
Off-peak advantages: Weekday camping offers more solitude and availability. "Weekends - this park is FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!" advises a camper at Fahnestock State Park. Several campgrounds report 75-90% lower occupancy midweek compared to weekends.
Space between sites: Campers appreciate parks with roomier layouts. At Beaver Pond Campground, "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." This campground offers sites that are typically 30-50 feet apart, unlike some closer configurations at other parks.
What you should know
Bear awareness required: Wildlife precautions are necessary at several parks. "'Welcome to Bear Mountain' grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He is in his ranger hut, checking in the late evening arrivals to the campground... and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area," reports a visitor to Beaver Pond Campground. Food storage lockers or proper containment is required at most wooded campgrounds.
Site selection importance: Individual sites can vary dramatically in quality and layout. A visitor to Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort notes "In general the camping spots are not well maintained, weedy, un-level and picnic tables are weathered and warped." Research specific site numbers and locations before booking.
Limited weekend availability: "You can hear the Statue of Liberty from there!" mentions a camper at Liberty Harbor, highlighting its proximity to major attractions. This makes reservations essential, particularly for holiday weekends when some parks report booking up 8-12 weeks in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Protected swimming options: Families with children should look for campgrounds with monitored swim areas. A visitor to Beaver Pond Campground explains the grounds are "just steps away from Welch Lake, offering a lifeguard monitored sandy beach which is open during the summer season for swimming." Check operating hours as many beach facilities close after Labor Day.
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play equipment within view of campsites. At Croton Point Park, a camper mentions "playground within sight of our camper," providing convenience for families with younger children. Most playgrounds cater to ages 5-12, with limited equipment for toddlers.
Animal encounters: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to see or interact with farm animals. At Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort, there are "goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," according to one visitor. These animal interactions are typically available during daylight hours without additional fees.
Tips from RVers
Height clearance challenges: Several campgrounds have issues with overhead branches. At Black Bear RV Park, "When you leave you have to drive the wrong way in the campground because of the low hanging trees the correct direction," cautions an RVer. Most parks don't prune above 12-13 feet, creating challenges for taller rigs.
Extended hookup hoses needed: Some sites require longer utility connections than standard. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection," explains a camper. Bring 50+ foot connections when possible.
Off-season water limitations: Winter and early spring campers should prepare for water restrictions. One RVer at Black Bear RV Park mentioned "We arrived after 8pm but I had called ahead to confirm our reservation... Unfortunately at this site, the heated water pipe was broken so we had no water for the night." Many parks reduce water service between November and April to prevent pipe damage.
