RV parks near Katonah, New York provide diverse camping experiences throughout the Hudson Valley region, with several parks open year-round. Situated approximately 40 miles north of Manhattan, the area has elevations between 300-800 feet and experiences all four seasons distinctly. Winter camping requires preparation as temperatures frequently drop below freezing from December through February, with some campgrounds reducing amenities during colder months.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Harriman State Park offers extensive hiking opportunities with over 200 miles of marked trails. "The Appalachian Trail, with various smaller trail heads for this historic (Revolutionary Times 1770s) part of the region including the one to Doodle Town. Long since the last resident left, the area is a ruins with markers showing where a house was," notes a visitor at Beaver Pond Campground.
Swimming at Canopus Lake: Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground features a beach area with lifeguards during summer. "The park has a nice open beach on Canopus Lake with a concession area and bathhouse, which we found to be quite clean! They even have boat rentals - or you can bring your own boat to launch!" explains a camper.
Visit historical sites: The area contains numerous historical attractions within driving distance. "Close to FDR home and library...a must to see. Quaint towns nearby," mentions a visitor at Interlake RV Park & Campground, which is about 30 minutes from Hyde Park.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Croton Point Park offers opportunities to observe local animals. "There must be new management because many upgrades have been made over the past year. We had one and a babbling brook was 30 feet behind us. Great spot for morning coffee," shares a camper at Thousand Trails Rondout Valley.
Secluded campsites: Many parks provide private sites with substantial separation from neighbors. "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 visitor to Clarence Fahnestock State Park.
Farm experiences: Some RV parks offer unique animal interactions. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool. Weekend was busy as usual but during the week it seems to be seasonal that stay," explains a guest at Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant seasonal changes. "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 a camper at Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground.
Limited winter services: Facility reductions occur during off-season stays. A camper at Beaver Pond Campground states: "We stayed here on a Thursday night in September prior to taking off backpacking. The campground was clean and quiet. Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great."
Transportation options: Some campgrounds offer access via public transport. "Came in on MetroNorth from NYC then took a pre-arranged taxi ($25 flat rate) to the campground. We walked 20 min from our site to the beach across the 2-lane highway," explains a visitor to Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides essential facilities for families. "Very plain & functional, no frills but right on the harbor & on the very edge of Jersey City, close to a ferry & the train that takes u across to New York City. Shopping & restraunts are right next door," notes a visitor.
Playground facilities: Several parks offer dedicated play areas for children. "Large levelled spaces but a little muddy. Good for a quiet, relaxing weekend; not very close to attractions otherwise. My daughter loved the horses and goats," shares a camper at Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort.
Activity planning: Look for campgrounds with scheduled events. "It was Christmas in July while I was there, with decorations and planned activities to accompany it. With that you get free wi-fi, a heated pool, a lake for fishing and boating, a game room and snack bar, movies, other sports," explains a visitor to Interlake RV Park & Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully when booking RV spaces. "Have stayed here several times - great location and nice, full hook-up sites. Back-in and pull through sites and can accommodate large rigs. A little expensive but everything is included," advises an RVer at Black Bear RV Park.
Accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds present navigation challenges. "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze," recommends a Liberty Harbor RV Park visitor.
Utility availability: Services vary significantly between parks. "Campsite 44 for just one night. I can hear distant cars from time to time but, not like highway sounds. Bathrooms for our area looks well kept outside, but, closed due to covid," reports a camper at Black Bear RV Park.
