Camping near Garrison, New York offers diverse accommodation options in the Hudson River Valley. Sites range in elevation from riverfront locations at 10 feet above sea level to mountain campgrounds at elevations exceeding 1,200 feet. Most campgrounds in this region have varying cell service reliability, with connectivity strongest at lower elevations and often spotty in forested areas.
What to do
Swimming and recreation: Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground features Canopus Lake with a sandy beach area. "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful," notes one camper at Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground.
Hiking opportunities: Taconic State Park offers trail access directly from camping areas. "There's a trailhead at the end of the campground that connects to the other trails in Taconic State Park," shares a visitor to Rudd Pond Area — Taconic State Park. Most trail systems connect to longer routes with moderate difficulty ratings.
Fishing access: Rudd Pond provides excellent fishing for bass enthusiasts. "The sites were a little close together, but being able to fish and catching 2 decent-sized largemouth bass made everything all ok! There is plenty of fishing access from shore and you can rent a boat for the whole day," mentions a satisfied angler.
Urban exploration: Liberty Harbor RV Park serves as a convenient base for NYC exploration. "There is a ferry 100-yards away that takes you to Wall Street M-F. There is a great market about 1/4 of a mile away, and the path that can take you to WTC or 33rd Street area is only a mile away," explains a visitor to Liberty Harbor RV Park.
What campers like
Natural water features: Many campers appreciate the streams running through campsites. "Our site was up front and we didn't venture into the park. We had one and a babbling brook was 30 feet behind us. Great spot for morning coffee," explains a visitor to Thousand Trails Rondout Valley.
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. "The gem is the beautiful grounds, river, and parklike setting. Lots of wildlife around," notes a camper at Tri-State RV Park regarding the natural surroundings.
Family-friendly amenities: Rondout Valley features multiple recreation options. "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," shares a family who visited the campground.
Platform tent sites: Beaver Pond Campground offers elevated camping 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," explains a camper at Beaver Pond Campground.
What you should know
Bear activity: Wildlife sightings are common in certain campgrounds. "Welcome to Bear Mountain grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping," warns a camper at Beaver Pond Campground.
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly between locations. "I do feel the campground bathhouse really needed more attention... while it had clearly been painted this past year, it was very 'buggy' - and did not appear to have been thoroughly cleaned since spring," notes a visitor to Clarence Fahnestock State Park.
Noise levels: Some campgrounds experience more activity than others. "There is a constant buzz in the air of conversation, music, laughter and shrieking toddlers. Quiet time at night is laughable as the enjoyment of being in nature rages on into the early morning," mentions a Beaver Pond visitor.
Site selection: Research specific sites before booking. "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 a regular visitor to Tri-State RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Campground activities: Family-focused campgrounds offer planned events. "This is a large family campground with tons of stuff to do, I was pleasantly surprised by how quiet it was," reports a visitor to Thousand Trails Rondout Valley.
Swimming options: Many families prioritize water access. "They have a pool, playground, and a brand-new pickleball court that added a unique touch to the stay," notes a visitor to Mountain Top RV Park. Swimming beaches typically open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Campground is large with nice size sites. Too hot today, will check it out tonight. Nice pool, this is a good family campground for kids," mentions a summer visitor to Skyway Camping Resort.
Nearby activities: Consider proximity to attractions beyond the campground. "The nearby towns are adorable and offer shopping, hiking, farms, and more," advises a visitor to Thousand Trails Rondout Valley.
Tips from RVers
Hookup details: Most rv sites near Garrison, New York offer water and electric connections. "Sites were nicely wooded, very well spaced, fairly level with 50A service and water hookup," describes one RV visitor.
Year-round availability: Limited campgrounds remain open during winter months. "This is a Thousand trails campground so it was free. I think the regular price is $64. Full hookups, tents and cabins to rent. Pleanty to do in and around campground," explains a visitor to Skyway Camping Resort about pricing and amenities.
Site leveling considerations: Terrain varies significantly between campgrounds. "Sites are on a gravel lot. Restrooms are clean. Not much else to say about this CG, is just a parking lot with hookups," reports a camper about Tri-State RV Park, highlighting the practical nature of some rv sites near Garrison.
Seasonal infrastructure concerns: Water systems may be affected by weather. "If you're booking, it may be best to book on the upper levels because the lower area where we were did flood pretty bad a couple times when there was a lot of rain," warns a visitor to Mountain Top RV Park.
