Lagrangeville camping provides easy access to the scenic Hudson Valley, where elevations range from 400 to 1,200 feet across the region. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F during peak camping season, while spring and fall campers can expect 50-70°F daytime temperatures. Most campgrounds in this area remain open from April through October, with limited winter availability at select locations.
What to do
Swimming and water activities: Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground provides a clean beach area with lifeguard supervision during summer months. "The lake is beautiful and clean. Expect to pay $15 fee to use your paddleboards/kayaks. Worth every penny," notes camper Mellisa T. The park also offers boat rentals for those without personal watercraft.
Hiking through historic areas: Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground features multiple hiking trails directly accessible from the campground. One visitor mentioned, "We didn't take the Perkins Memorial Tower trail, but heard it was amazing." Several trails connect to the Appalachian Trail system, allowing day hikers to experience sections of this famous route.
Fishing opportunities: Rudd Pond Area at Taconic State Park provides shoreline fishing access for largemouth bass. According to Rosie R., "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 to fish on the water."
What campers like
Secluded tent platforms: Several campgrounds offer raised platforms that keep tents dry during wet conditions. A Beaver Pond Campground visitor explained, "This was our second time coming to this campground and our second time getting dumped on by the rain, but have no fear!! The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection!"
Clean bathroom facilities: Mills Norrie State Park Campground maintains their facilities well according to multiple reviews. "Showers always clean bathrooms also," reports Frank M. The park offers both group and single private sites, making it suitable for different camping arrangements.
Off-season tranquility: For those seeking quieter camping experiences near Lagrangeville, visiting during weekdays or shoulder seasons provides a different atmosphere. Rebecca S. noted about Beaver Pond, "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."
What you should know
Bear activity awareness: Campgrounds in the region require proper food storage. At Beaver Pond Campground, rangers specifically warn about bears. One camper reported, "The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping."
Cell service reliability: Most campgrounds in the area maintain decent connectivity. Katherine P. mentions that Rudd Pond "is situated on a hill overlooking Rudd Pond in Taconic State Park," which helps with signal strength at higher elevations.
Seasonal restrictions: Most campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Lake Taghkanic operates from "May 6 to October 15," while Mills Norrie runs "May to October." Winter camping options are extremely limited, with Black Bear RV Park being one of few "All year" options.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Thousand Trails Rondout Valley offers family-friendly amenities that keep children occupied. "As part of the Thousand Trails group, this campground has many amenities. It offers a pool, playground, and activities that include bocce ball, shuffleboard, and horseshoes," reports Kasey M., who adds that "the creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish."
Weekend activity planning: Many campgrounds schedule organized events on weekends. According to Kaitlin B., Rondout Valley is "great. Lots of activities, a pool access, food court and basketball courts." For families seeking structured recreation, checking campground activity calendars before booking can enhance the experience.
Child-friendly water features: Selecting campgrounds with shallow swimming areas improves safety for younger campers. One visitor at Rudd Pond mentioned, "There's a swimming beach and during non-covid times, boat rentals," plus a "Kiddie pond, children's playground" area specifically designed for smaller children.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: For motorhome campers near Lagrangeville, site selection matters for leveling ease. At Rudd Pond Area, a reviewer noted the campground "is situated on a hill" with sites that have "a slope," making leveling more challenging for larger rigs.
Hook-up availability: Interlake RV Park & Campground offers complete connections for recreational vehicles. "Great Campsite. Well maintained. Lots of pretty lots under the shade," reports one camper. Another mentions it's "priced very reasonably for full hook up and about a half hour from stunning views."
Winter RV camping limitations: While most campgrounds close during colder months, Black Bear RV Park remains operational year-round with some limitations. Gabbie Y. warned, "Some sites might not have working water and staff could be difficult to get in touch with after hours," suggesting winter RVers should confirm utility availability when making reservations.
