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The Hudson Highlands region surrounding Fishkill, New York contains several established campgrounds with varying amenities, from primitive tent sites to full-service RV facilities. Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground, located about 10 miles north of Fishkill, serves as a central camping destination with drive-in sites accommodating both tents and RVs. Nearby, Mills Norrie State Park provides lakeside camping with cabin options. Dispersed camping opportunities exist at Hemlock Ridge MUA, while private facilities like Jellystone Park Gardiner offer glamping experiences including cabins and yurts. Several campgrounds in the area provide electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings, with varying levels of water and shower access.
Camping season typically runs from mid-April through early December, with most facilities closing during winter months. A visitor commented that "the sites are well spaced out. Great for families. The lake is huge. Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds." Road access varies across the region, with some campgrounds featuring well-maintained roads while others require hiking in. Many sites require advance reservations, particularly during summer weekends and fall foliage season. Cell service can be limited or non-existent at more remote locations. Weather conditions range from hot, humid summers to cold winters with occasional snow, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
Campers report high satisfaction with waterfront locations at several area campgrounds. Hiking trails represent a significant draw, with Clarence Fahnestock State Park offering miles of well-maintained paths. A review noted the park has "done a lot of work on the surrounding trails. Some are wide and open (like the School Mountain Trail) and others (like the AT near Canopus Lake) are more challenging." Wildlife encounters are common, with black bears active in some areas, particularly in Harriman State Park. Campgrounds closer to New York City tend to be busier, especially on weekends, while those further north offer more seclusion. The best campgrounds in Fishkill provide access to the region's natural beauty while offering a range of camping experiences for visitors of all experience levels. Family-friendly amenities like beaches, playgrounds, and recreational activities are available at several locations, though amenities decrease at more primitive sites.
"The NYS Parks has done a lot of work on the surrounding trails. Some are wide and open (like the School Mountain Trail) and others (like the AT near Canopus Lake) are more challenging. Fishkill"
"When you are camping with a large group of friends and don't all have access to a car, this is the perfect spot."
from $17 / night
Check Availability"With a new check in area, Gardiner has really stepped up. They expanded the pool area to include another pool plus splash area and water slides."
"We got a red carpet site by the Gaga pit and near the water park (Cindy bear lane) and it was a convenient yet noisy site. Kids were at the playground 8 am or before and the noise woke us up."
"They have the best staff and they are everywhere, if you need someone they are always around and super friendly also."
"Location- 4 stars- close to NYC but kinda just in the woods and close to homes, not much around. Sites- 4 stars- a real mixed bag- the rv/trailer only section is really nice, wooded."
"15 dolares la noche para los que viven en el Estado de New York o New York city .. si es fuera del estado son $5 dolares mas!!"
"Drive-in tent campgrounds. Adequate restroom facilities sprinkled amongst tent sites. Some campsites have raised platforms. All sites have picnic tables and fire ring with flip-top grill."
from $17 - $20 / night
Check Availability"Love the proximity to NYC - I always look for areas that are not too far, but not too close to NY. Beautiful but small-ish tent sites."
"We are looking forward to stopping by Round Pond again in the near future."
from $25 - $40 / night
Check Availability"There are great hiking trails on the Hudson River right outside your campsite. Amenities are the great outdoors and an ancient bath house built during the New Deal in the 1930's."
"Firewood wasn’t available at the camp, had to drive about a mile to grab some. Close to town so easy to grab needed items."
from $17 - $102 / night
Check Availability"There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it’s quiet & off the beaten path. The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight."
"We have stayed here multiple times since it’s so close to home. Reservations are needed only for major holidays during camping season; Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day."
"The trails to walk on are perfect to get out of the campsite for a few hours. There are no spots with sewer hookup but they have a dumping area."
from $25 - $30 / night
Check Availability"Reminds me of lake camping that I grew up with. Hosts are very nice and helpful. This is more of a seasonal camping site. Do not follow your GPS directions. Get directions from the campground staff."
"Less then 10 min drive from town, but hiking in and finding a suitable place to make camp has the feeling of the wild, with the safety of having full cell service."
GuideWe were in campsite 20 with lots of room. The first night we were there we were near very loud groups which was difficult to sleep through. The next night everyone cleared out and we had a peaceful crowd. Bathrooms are nice, the park has great hiking trails and a nice day use area! There is also an area where we can rent canoes. I would definitely return, just wish there was a little more crowd control.
TravelerThis area seems to be devoid of campgrounds except for this one. It’s basically just a large parking lot with hook ups. Completely open, which is great for Starlink. Bathrooms were slightly above average; fairly clean and places to hang clothes for your shower. Has a laundry but be sure to bring quarters. It is about 100 yards from the interstate so you’ll get a lot of noise and diesel exhaust fumes.
ScoutWe really loved this spot- it was relaxing to listen to the sounds of the creek and not having any camping neighbors. The night sky was filled with stars and we even saw a rocket. I also appreciated having an outhouse on site- i would say the only downside was having to take our bag of poop+pee out with us when we left (site rules). The only other thing that was bothersome was being told that wood is provided at the site and then not realizing until after we got there that we would have to Venmo the owner $10 per bundle (I don’t mind paying, just wouldn’t been nice to know ahead of time that it wasn’t included in the price). I recommend this site for anyone who enjoys privacy and doesn’t mind a detox from WiFi.
ScoutRip Van Winkle Campground
Catskills NY
The Good:
1. The location
2. The actual campground itself. There are roomy sites with trees.
The Bad:
1. If you are lucky enough to get an assigned campsite away from the busy road, it is a HALF MILE walk to the only showers in the ENTIRE campground. They have nearly 200 campsites and ONE set of showers.
2. The speed bumps are beyond ridiculous. Two humpers and high as Bob Marley.
3. If you call the office for help (our electrical post was out) they record you without your knowledge.
The Ugly:
1. The campground lost power on my electrical post and tried to blame ME for it. I own a Bulldog surge protector, yeah, so it wasn't me. How it was handled was unbelievable. I have never been treated so rudely. A simple apology would have gone a long way.
ScoutNo hookups. It was wooded, quiet and dark at night. I used the dump station on my way out. The first time I ever saw a poop fountain. The sewer opening sticks up above ground level. The cover swivels away, so I couldn't put it on top of my hose. And then, when I tried to rinse it, there was nowhere for it to go, because the inlet is elevated.
ScoutWe reserved for a day. Very bad service. The river is super dirty and they did not even clean the trash cans. Besides, the fire ring has no grill cooking grate, so if you don’t bring your own NO GRILLING. Ryan was the person in front that took care of us, he was rude, my kids felt weird because he was not welcoming at all. Also, we try to ask for a partial refund since we did not felt comfortable since the beginning, and they said NO. We have experience camping, but this one was simply THE WORST. We lost the money but we won’t put our kids in a difficult situation. Thanks.
ScoutWe stay at a lot of Jellystone parks so have become accustomed to the park layouts and activities. This one was well maintained with clean facilities. Some things like the mini golf and fire pits needed maintenance. The pools were nice but get very busy later in the day. The sites up on the hills are nice but beware, it’s a hill! There is little to no WiFi or cell service or it gets easily bogged down, so be ready for that. Food was basic but good. Some activities like bingo were a bit chaotic and there were a lot of ground hornets around the jumping pillows. Would totally go again.
ScoutThis is not the place to come if what you are looking for is a nice quiet, peaceful nature retreat. The "full shade" sites really aren't, it's crowded with kids yelling and running everywhere, and honestly, you're better off camping in your backyard.
ScoutThe neighbor cry about a dog that barks and then we are no good
Camping options near Fishkill, New York range from primitive sites to full-service facilities across elevations from 200 to 1,000 feet. The region's distinct four seasons create diverse camping conditions, with daytime summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and spring/fall temperatures ranging from 45-65°F. Many campgrounds in the area operate on a first-come, first-served basis outside major holiday weekends when advance reservations become necessary.
Hiking at West Point FMWR Round Pond: Located about 25 minutes from Fishkill, this recreation area offers multiple trails and lake activities. "Beautiful but small-ish tent sites. Lots of great hiking in the area in addition to beautiful Cold Spring, NY for the small-town charm," notes Becky G. Military ID required for access.
Beach swimming and fishing: Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park provides lake access with a lifeguard-monitored beach during summer. "The beach is secured with lifeguards and shower and bathroom facilities are available," explains Brian O. Fishing is permitted with proper licensing, and small watercraft are allowed on designated areas of the lake.
Apple picking and exploring Hudson Valley: Several campgrounds serve as bases for exploring local attractions. "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," mentions Asher K. about Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground. Local orchards typically operate from September through early November.
Platform tent sites: Campers appreciate raised platforms at several locations. "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.
Family-focused activities: Jellystone Park Gardiner offers extensive children's programming. "This campground has a lot of activities and has kids of all ages galore. I was worried my 12 year old would be too old for it but he enjoyed making friends there," says Stephanie H., who adds that activities are most extensive on Saturdays.
Proximity to Metro-North: Campers without vehicles appreciate locations near public transportation. "When you are camping with a large group of friends and don't all have access to a car, this is the perfect spot. MetroNorth takes you right into Cold Spring, a charming, quaint town with antique shops and beautiful views of the Hudson," notes Robyn S.
Water quality varies: Some campsites have water issues. At Winding Hills Park, "The water smells a little like sulfur, so you may want to bring your own," advises Laura E. This campground offers non-electric sites for $40 and power sites for $45 for non-residents.
Cell service limitations: Coverage depends on carrier and specific campground location. At Winding Hills, campers report "Good cell reception for Verizon and ATT," while Sprint users at other campgrounds report poor connectivity. Laura M. notes, "we were there at the end of October, and staff told us Oct 22, 2023 was the last camping day of the season."
Bears are active: Wildlife requires proper precautions. "The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping," cautions Kelvin at Beaver Pond. Rangers provide specific guidance about local bear activity upon arrival at most campgrounds.
Swimming options: New York City North-Newburgh KOA offers multiple water features. "They have two pools but both were overcrowded. Playground was large and in decent condition," shares Greg S., adding that jumping pads and other amenities vary in availability throughout the season.
Bathroom considerations: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. Courtney D. notes about Clarence Fahnestock: "Bathrooms and dishwashing... UGH. So old and dirty!!!" while at Winding Hills Park, "Showers are free and hot and clean, water runs continuously (no button to push), and you can adjust the temperature."
Site selection: Many campgrounds have significant variations between sites. "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.
Site variations: Mills Norrie State Park Campground offers varied RV accommodations. "All sites were so different. There was a storm the night before our arrival date, all campers were evacuated and they did a fantastic job clearing all the debris and downed trees before our arrival," notes Erinn N., emphasizing the different layouts across the campground.
Hookup availability: Electric connections are more common than full hookups. At Winding Hills, "no spots with sewer hookup but they have a dumping area," explains Valen K. RVers should plan water usage accordingly and expect to use dump stations rather than sewer connections at most area campgrounds.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. At KOA Newburgh, April L. notes "The roads to the main sites also need some branch trimming," while recommending "if staying here and concerned about branches I'd suggest one of the pull through sites. Specifically 138, 146 and 145 have a nice concrete patio and nicer firepit if you want to spend a little more."
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds near Fishkill, NY?
The Fishkill area offers several excellent camping options. Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground is one of the closest and most popular choices, featuring well-maintained trails, access to Canopus Lake for swimming and boating, and clean facilities. Another great option is Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park, which offers affordable sites ($15-20 per night for NY residents) and beautiful surroundings. For those willing to travel a bit further, North-South Lake Campground in the Catskills provides spacious sites with good privacy, ideal for families. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation is also popular among locals for its natural beauty and proximity to Fishkill.
How much does camping cost at Fishkill campgrounds?
Camping costs in the Fishkill area vary by location and residency status. North-South Lake Campground offers sites at moderate rates, making it a popular option for families visiting the Catskills. Catskill/Kenneth L Wilson Campground provides affordable camping with large, tree-surrounded sites that offer a good balance of privacy and community atmosphere. Public campgrounds in the region typically range from $15-25 per night for New York residents, with non-residents paying approximately $5 more. Private campgrounds like Rip Van Winkle and Treetopia generally charge $30-60 per night depending on amenities and season. Most state parks also have day-use fees if you're just visiting for activities like swimming or hiking.
Are there any private tent camping options in the Fishkill area?
Yes, the Fishkill area offers several private tent camping options. Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds provides tent sites with amenities including fishing in two private lakes, playgrounds, basketball courts, swimming pool, and even a remote control car track. For a unique glamping experience, Peace and Carrots Farm Bluebird Tiny Home offers a perfect introduction to outdoor stays for camping newcomers, with the comfort of a tiny home in a natural setting. Additionally, Treetopia Campground in the Catskills features both traditional tent sites and glamping options like yurts. For those seeking more options, Jellystone Park in Gardiner offers family-friendly tent camping with numerous recreational facilities about an hour from Fishkill.
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