The Hudson Highlands region surrounding Highland Mills rises to elevations of 1,200 feet with a humid continental climate. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with regular afternoon thunderstorms from June through August. Fall camping seasons feature 40-70°F temperature swings between day and night, requiring layered clothing and proper sleeping gear.
What to do
Fishing at local ponds: Campers at Thousand Trails Rondout Valley can fish nearby streams. "The creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish," notes Kasey M., highlighting activities beyond swimming.
Beach access with seasonal limitations: Visit Clarence Fahnestock State Park for swimming after peak season. "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful. Great hikes," writes Courtney D.
Wildlife observation areas: The region offers multiple viewing opportunities. At Pleasant Acres Farm, campers encounter farm animals within the campground area. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," according to Faith D.
What campers like
Newly upgraded facilities: Infrastructure improvements make camping more convenient at many parks. At Mountain Top RV Park, Jason G. reports, "The newly upgraded camp infrastructure elevated the stay, providing amenities for comfort and entertainment."
Seasonal activities programming: Families appreciate organized events. "This is a large family campground with tons of stuff to do, I was pleasantly surprised by how quiet it was," writes Katie B. about Rondout Valley.
Hot showers year-round: Many campgrounds maintain bathroom facilities through extended seasons. Megan B. notes about Beaver Pond Campground, "Free Hot showers in the bathrooms, with plenty of room to change."
Platform tent sites: Several parks offer raised camping surfaces. According to Ethan K., "Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained or if you are expecting rain during your stay."
What you should know
Varying site privacy levels: Site selection impacts experience. At Black Bear RV Park, Harold C. observed, "I like our area it is quiet and the campground. There are 3 other campers in our section we are straight up the hill and to the left."
Mid-week vs. weekend crowds: Occupancy patterns affect noise levels. "During summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great," notes a ranger at Beaver Pond Campground.
Storm preparation protocols: Parks have established procedures for weather events. Erinn N. reported at Clarence Fahnestock, "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."
Bathroom maintenance issues: Several older facilities require updates. Coffee&Camping T. observed at Pleasant Acres Farm, "There are 2 showers for women and 2 for men. Both are old and not well maintained or in our experience clean, either."
Tips for camping with families
Consider seasonal activities: Many rv campgrounds near Highland Mills, New York offer scheduled events for children. "They have 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," explains Kasey M.
Look for multi-generational amenities: Choose parks with diverse recreation options. "Weekend was busy as usual but during the week it seems to be seasonal that stay. A bit out here in the middle of nowhere, 15-20 minutes from any town. Make sure you have what you need!" advises Faith D.
Wildlife education opportunities: Many Highland Mills camping facilities have animal encounters. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," says Faith D. about Pleasant Acres Farm.
Tips from RVers
Verify site conditions before arrival: RV sites vary widely in size and level. Dave S. recommends Black Bear RV Park noting, "Great location and nice, full hook-up sites. Back-in and pull through sites and can accommodate large rigs."
Highland Mills RV park seasonality: Some Highland Mills area campgrounds restrict operations seasonally. According to @HomegrownRV at Mountain Top RV Park, "The restrooms were closed for the winter, so we didn't get to use or see those."
Lower elevation sites flood risk: Site selection should consider drainage patterns. @HomegrownRV advises, "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."
Proximity to facilities matters: Choose sites with convenient access to amenities. At Beaver Pond Campground, Kelvin appreciates, "Full bathrooms and slop sinks throughout the campsite," though notes "The campsites are a bit close to one another."
