Near Latham, New York, campers find diverse options within a 40-mile radius across the Capital Region. The area features varying elevations from riverfront locations at around 200 feet to higher elevation sites in the Taconic Range reaching 1,400 feet. Camping conditions change significantly between lowland riverside campgrounds and the more mountainous eastern options where temperatures can be 5-10 degrees cooler.
What to Do
Kayaking on the Hudson River: Visitors at Schodack Island State Park can access boat launch facilities for river activities. "The day use and boat ramp on the Hudson River" is particularly noteworthy, with one visitor noting they "saw many larger boats (maybe small yachts?) during the day. The view from the boat ramp area was amazing."
Birding opportunities: Campers report excellent wildlife viewing potential, especially for bird enthusiasts. "Excellent birding" opportunities exist with trails leading to "a couple of different blinds to look for birds. Did see a juv eagle," according to one visitor at Schodack Island State Park.
Mountain exploration: For those seeking higher elevations, Mt. Greylock Campsite Park provides access to prominent peaks. "Great access to Mt Greylock and LOTS of hiking close by" makes this location popular with outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate that "staff was so accommodating-always willing to spend time giving recommendations."
Winter camping options: Unlike most regional campgrounds that close after fall, some facilities remain open year-round. At Mt. Greylock Campsite Park, winter camping means "you'll have the entire mountain side all to yourself! Snowshoe, cross country ski. Winter campfires."
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently highlight site separation as important. Cherry Plain State Park features walk-in sites that visitors describe as "all lovely" with recommendations to choose "sites toward the back of the park." At another location, guests appreciate that "the state did an excellent job designing sites with dense foliage as sound and site barriers creating good privacy for campers."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms receive frequent positive mentions. One camper at Cherry Plain noted "Hot showers, bathrooms, and dishwashing stations are available," while another mentioned they found "very clean" bathrooms that were "in good repair."
Water proximity: Access to swimming areas remains a major attraction. One camper at Thompson's Lake Campground highlights that "some of the lakeside sites have private foot trails down to the water which was very nice." Other visitors mention "a great beach with swimming, kayak and boat rentals."
Natural surroundings: The wooded environment receives consistent praise. "It's got so many different nooks and crannies and so many different levels up and down the hill and valley and just a beautiful peaceful place in the woods" noted one visitor, while another appreciated camping under "a tall canopy of large trees, deciduous and fir, giving a comforting ambience."
What You Should Know
Documentation requirements: Some parks have strict entry policies. At Arrowhead Marina & RV Park, be prepared with proper documentation. One camper at a nearby park warned, "Be sure to bring your dogs rabies records!! They don't let you in with just the tag, it has to be the paper records... they are very strict on rabies requirements."
Site leveling challenges: Uneven terrain can create setup difficulties. Campers report some sites being "about 7 inches out of level" and recommend coming "better prepared" with leveling equipment. Another noted "Some of the sites are up hills and might be difficult for some to park their trailers."
Seasonal variations: Visitor experiences change dramatically by season. During peak periods, especially holiday weekends, campgrounds can become crowded. As one visitor reported, "Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds." Winter campers should note that facilities are limited but elevations "about 1409 feet" offer stunning "views of the sunrise over the entire valley."
Weekend activity levels: Noise levels increase on weekends at many campgrounds. "It was a very quiet campground during the week. However... when Friday came and the weekend campers arrived, it got loud and rowdy" reported one camper, while another noted "Some summer residents are a bit into their music, mostly on weekends."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Families with children appreciate dedicated play areas. Aqua Vista Valley Campgrounds offers "a really awesome playground" and activities that keep children engaged. One visitor shared, "We used the playground with our grandkids and it was clean and lots to do."
Kid-friendly activities: Scheduled events provide entertainment for younger campers. "They have hayrides, many activities, themed weekends. Activities going on all the time. Great place for family and kids" reported one visitor. Another mentioned special events like Halloween where "the kids had a great day and evening! They really enjoyed trick or treating!"
Swimming options: Water access provides essential recreation for families. Thompson's Lake Campground gets high marks from parents who "appreciate the playground area near the beach more. All public areas including the bathrooms are very clean." Another mentioned that "This campground has always been my go to" specifically for family-friendly amenities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Power options differ significantly between parks. At Deer Run Campground, "All of the sites are pull through so no worries about backing in" which simplifies arrival for newer RVers. The sites offer electrical connections but some RVers noted they "are pretty close together."
Site selection considerations: Location within campgrounds significantly impacts experience. One RVer recommended: "Call them up and ask for their help choosing something that offers privacy" after finding their assigned site "was like sitting in an open spot on display." Another noted their site was "back-in and had plenty of space" with "a lot of green space in this campground."
Water and sanitation access: Service locations vary between parks. Several campgrounds offer "Water available at different spots in the campground but not at the sites," requiring RVers to fill tanks upon arrival. Others feature full hookups where "RV sites offer 30/50 amp electricity" with dump stations typically located "on the way out."
