RV sites near Highland Falls, New York occupy various terrain types within the Hudson Valley region, ranging from riverside locations to forested mountain settings. The area sits at elevations between 400-1,300 feet, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Winter camping options remain limited with most facilities closing between October and April, though several parks maintain year-round operations with reduced services.
What to do
Hiking access from campsites: At Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park, campers can directly access trail networks. "Hike trails are all over the place and the lake is nearby," notes one visitor, while another mentions "access to bear mountain pool, or the appalachian trails, and lean tos."
Fishing opportunities: Several parks offer fishing access without requiring additional travel. At Rudd Pond Area — Taconic State Park, "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 to fish on the water."
Seasonal swimming: Swimming facilities vary widely between parks. "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite," reports a visitor at Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground, providing extended season swimming for campers.
What campers like
Affordability options: Budget-conscious campers can find economical options. "Camping for just $15," reports one Beaver Pond visitor, highlighting the area's more accessible price points compared to premium RV resorts.
Seasonal views: Fall camping provides distinctive experiences in the region. At Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground, one visitor recommends going "during the end-of-summer/fall when you can watch the leaves change along the hiking trails, go apple and pumpkin picking near the campsites, and eat some scrumptious apple cinnamon doughnuts and drink pumpkin hot chocolate."
Proximity to NYC: Many campgrounds market themselves on city accessibility. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," reports a Harriman State Park visitor, highlighting the wildlife contrast.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Campground noise levels vary significantly by location and timing. One visitor to Liberty Harbor RV Park notes it's "close to ferry for downtown and Statue of Liberty. People are very nice and accommodating. More of a stopping place to see the sites," indicating its urban-adjacent character.
Wildlife encounters: Bear activity requires specific precautions in certain areas. "Welcome to Bear Mountain" grumbles the park ranger... He offers us a highlighted map to our site, wishes us a good stay, and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area," reports a Beaver Pond camper, highlighting that rangers provide specific guidance upon arrival.
Platform camping availability: Several parks feature raised platforms for tent pitching. "This is a really interesting campground that's situated on a hill overlooking Rudd Pond in Taconic State Park. Almost all of the sites have platforms to pitch your tent on," notes one camper about the unique setup that helps with uneven terrain.
Tips for camping with families
Multi-generational accessibility: Some parks cater specifically to families with varying mobility needs. At Thousand Trails Rondout Valley, "it offers a pool, playground, and activities that include bocce ball, shuffleboard, and horseshoes. We loved our full hookup site minus the neighbors' weekend ragers. The creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish."
Nature engagement: Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the region. "We stayed here in August 2020. This is a really interesting campground that's situated on a hill overlooking Rudd Pond... You get a pretty decent view of Rudd Pond, and the sunsets are pretty," notes a Taconic State Park visitor.
Bathroom facilities: Restroom conditions vary dramatically between parks. "Bathrooms and dishwashing... UGH. So old and dirty!!!" reports one Clarence Fahnestock visitor, while others note newly renovated facilities at different parks.
Tips from RVers
Highway access considerations: For RVers navigating the region's highways, some parks provide strategic positioning. At Tri-State RV Park, "Located just off the highway so lots of vehicle noise 24/7. Sites are on a gravel lot. Restrooms are clean. Not much else to say about this CG, is just a parking lot with hookups," with another visitor adding it offers "easy on, easy off. Lots of pull through sites."
Winter RV options: Off-season RV camping requires careful planning. "We are returning to the south after spending a couple months of fall in New England... This was our first stop and primarily chosen because it was one of the few places along our route that was open for RVs in the off season," reports a Black Bear RV Park visitor, noting the limited winter camping infrastructure.
Site spacing variations: RV site density affects camping experience. "The sites were a little close together, but being able to fish and catching 2 decent-sized largemouth bass made everything all ok!!" notes one Rudd Pond visitor, showing how amenities can offset proximity concerns.
