Monsey's camping options lie within the rugged terrain of New York's Hudson Valley, where elevations range from 250 to 1,300 feet and moderate humidity levels persist through summer months. The region features a mix of wooded campsites and riverside locations with varying cell reception quality depending on terrain features. Many campgrounds remain open into early December, with a limited selection operating year-round.
What to do
Swimming at Fahnestock State Park: The lake beach provides summer recreation with swimming allowed after Labor Day for campers. "Clean and beautiful. Great hikes. Bathrooms and dishwashing... UGH. So old and dirty!!!" reports Courtney D. about Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground.
River access for fishing: Multiple campgrounds offer water access for fishing or boating. Tri-State RV Park borders the Delaware River, with one visitor noting it's "Safe, clean, and right on the Delaware River. Groceries and Home Depot close buy if you need to restock" according to Dave B. at Tri-State RV Park.
New York City exploration: Several campgrounds serve as bases for Manhattan trips. Skyline RV Camp offers urban camping near the city with limitations. "There was only 1 bathroom with small shower for all guests, however they are in the process of adding 5 more," mentions arlene S. about Skyline RV Camp - Non-Waterfront.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campgrounds vary in spacing between sites. Fahnestock offers more secluded options as Jess M. notes: "The campsite was pleasant and it was peaceful during quiet hours (10pm-7am) on both Friday and Saturday nights." She adds that "the site itself was solid- it is surrounded by forest, and is at the top of a small ridge above Pelton Pond."
Direct trail access: Many campers appreciate hiking options directly from campsites. At Beaver Pond Campground, Elliot G. mentions "Something for all, swimming, camping, access to bear mountain pool, or the appalachian trails, and lean tos, (not on the camp sites). Prices all can afford to come."
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to observe native animals. At Rondout Valley, Kasey M. shares that "The creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish." Tri-State visitors mention seeing various wildlife around the grounds.
What you should know
Bathroom conditions vary widely: Facility quality differs significantly between parks. At Thousand Trails Rondout Valley, Inez W. reports "The grounds are well-kept and the bathrooms are clean. The campground itself is pretty quiet, although there is some noise by the playground."
Highway noise impacts some sites: Proximity to roads affects tranquility at certain locations. At Tri-State RV Park, Rick G. states: "While the staff is very friendly and polite you are basically in a old parking lot right below the freeway. Very easy to get on & off the highway but loud highway noise almost all night."
Site reservation issues: Booking systems occasionally have problems. At Fahnestock, Sammi A. found: "I had originally booked site 65 and upon arriving, was told there was an error in the system and it was double-booked." She recommends, "I would absolutely try to check your site before you get there because each site varied quite a bit from the other."
Tips for camping with families
Platform campsites for rainy conditions: Some parks offer raised platforms to keep tents dry. Ethan K. found at Beaver Pond: "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."
Weekday visits for less crowding: Campgrounds differ drastically between weekends and weekdays. Shelly B. notes about Fahnestock: "Weekends - this park is FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!"
Kid-friendly amenities: Some parks feature dedicated recreation areas. At Mountain Top RV Park, Jason G. mentions: "The family-friendly atmosphere was evident through the thoughtfully designed property, including an updated pool, playground, game room, and a brand-new pickleball court that added a unique touch to the stay."
Tips from RVers
NYC access with large rigs: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides urban access with limitations. Shawn B. explains: "I would give this place a 5-star review based on how convenient everything was. There is a ferry 100-yards away that takes you to Wall Street M-F. There is a great market about 1/4 of a mile away."
Winter camping options: Limited RV parks near Monsey, New York remain open in winter. Black Bear RV Park in Florida, NY operates year-round, though winter experiences vary: "This was our first stop and primarily chosen because it was one of the few places along our route that was open for RVs in the off season," reports Gabbie Y., who adds a caution that "some sites might not have working water."
Site conditions for larger vehicles: RV parks have varying space limitations. At Skyway Camping Resort, Ron H. observed the campground is "very nice and clean" with "nice size sites," making it suitable for RVers seeking more space than other parks in the region.
