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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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.
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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.
Tips from RVers
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."
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