Near Holmes, New York, campers find a range of glamping and traditional camping options within the Hudson Valley region at elevations ranging from 400-800 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with peak camping running May through October when temperatures average 65-85°F during summer days. Sites range from basic tent platforms to full-service RV hookups within 30 minutes of Holmes.
What to do
Swimming access: 3-season options: Lake Taghkanic State Park offers lifeguarded swimming areas during summer months. "The lake is beautiful and clean. Expect to pay $15 fee to use your paddleboards/kayaks etc. Worth every penny," notes a camper from Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground.
Hiking trails: accessible year-round: Many campgrounds feature on-site hiking options. At Mountain Lakes Park, trails connect directly to the camping areas. "There is a really great (but very short .65 miles) hiking trail behind the campground and a cool big rock to climb on near the bathrooms," reports a visitor to Lake Waramaug State Park.
Local exploration: wineries and farms: The Hudson Valley offers agricultural experiences near camping areas. "The surrounding Hudson Valley region offers additional exploration opportunities with scenic hiking trails, wineries, and farm-to-table dining experiences," shares a camper. "There have been several times I've driven to the Dunkin Donuts miles down the road for coffee but I find using a French press is more convenient. For takeout there's the White Horse on 202."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds in the region feature larger-than-average sites. "Sites are HUGE. Bathrooms, water, showers are close by. You will almost always have a view of the water," says a camper from Lake Waramaug. Another visitor to Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park notes, "I can here to spend time with friends and I feel like we got lucky with our site. It had a nice wooded area behind us and felt more private than some of the other sites."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers rank high on camper priorities. "Clean bathrooms and nice store," reports a camper from Lake Compounce Campground. Another adds, "Restrooms are clean and spacious. Showers are great. Whoever planned this campground is/was a camper."
Military-specific options: Service members have dedicated camping facilities. "Yes, this is a military-only campground but, that doesn't take away from how incredible it is," shares a visitor to West Point FMWR Lake Frederick Outdoor Recreation Area. "Being military-only keeps standards high, the campground clean and well maintained."
What you should know
Seasonal variations in crowds: Weekends during summer attract larger numbers. A visitor to Thousand Trails Rondout Valley shares, "This is what I want for a Catskill campground. It is not a concrete pad haven and yes, there is mud." Another camper advises, "I would never camp here on a weekend.... it is a party place then."
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited connectivity. "Cell service is basically non-existent. Our trip this weekend was the first time we received more than 1 bar in 20 years. Actually we were a bit disappointed because this campground is a great place to disconnect and relax."
Water recreation rules: Most lakes have specific regulations. "The swim area is marginal - best for little ones," notes a camper. Another mentions, "If you have your own paddleboard or canoe or kayak, this would be a good place to use them. If you don't there are very expensive rentals available on site."
Tips for camping with families
Activity schedules: check ahead: Family-oriented campgrounds offer structured programming. "This campground is great for kids. It has an event just about every weekend with kid activity," reports a visitor to Jellystone Park Gardiner. Another camper notes, "Nice pool that is shallow so you can relax and let the little ones go in the water park section alone."
Playground access: varies by location: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "They have a large field for seasonal and large RVs to small wooded sites for tents," shares a camper from Lone Oak Camp Sites. Another notes, "There is easy access to the swimming area. The general area is rural and pretty."
Educational opportunities: nature programs: Wildlife and forest learning experiences enhance family trips. "We had several species of frogs and toads wandering about in the evening, giant millipedes were plenty, and even found a newt on our hike."
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Not all campgrounds offer full service. "This is basic dry camping. It is fun but there is no electric or water at the sites only in the bathhouse," reports a camper from Taconic State Park. Another notes, "None of the sites have sewer, but there is a dump station on the way out."
Access considerations: Some areas have restrictions on vehicle size. "The roads around the campground are very narrow with a lot of blind curves. Be careful and aware when driving."
Site spacing varies: Distance between RV spots differs across campgrounds. "Easy entry, long pull thrus. You will face your neighbor door to door but enough room between you don't feel invaded."
