The Catskill Mountains and Hudson Valley region surrounding Montgomery, New York sits at elevations ranging from 350 to 2,000 feet, creating diverse camping experiences throughout the area. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with evening temperatures dropping into the 50s. Most campgrounds in this region maintain multiple water access points, with many sites offering proximity to lakes, ponds, or streams.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Rudd Pond at Taconic State Park holds excellent largemouth bass fishing with both shoreline and boat access. "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."
Water recreation: Swimming and paddling options exist throughout the region with beaches at several state parks. Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground maintains a clean swimming beach with boat rentals. "No complaints. everything is perfect every year we've been. The lake is beautiful and clean. Expect to pay $15 fee (I think) to use your paddleboards / kyacks etc. Worth every penny."
Hiking trails: Many campgrounds connect directly to trail systems. At Taconic State Park, "There is also a trailhead at the end of the campground that connects to the other trails in Taconic State Park." The area surrounding Lake Taghkanic features multiple hiking options ranging from easy 1-mile loops to more challenging terrain.
What campers like
Scenic waterways: The Delaware River provides recreational opportunities at Soaring Eagle Campground, where the riverside location allows for various water activities. "Great river based location (Delaware River) bathhouse was very clean, very rustic, sites are huge, plenty of room for 2+ family campers."
Privacy between sites: Despite being in a popular camping region, many campgrounds maintain good separation between sites. At Soaring Eagle Campground, "The sites are larger than most campgrounds and well spaced out. I have been there on busy holiday weekends where it was full but still peaceful and private with a great community of campers."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept washrooms and shower facilities. At Fahnestock State Park Campground, "The bathrooms were clean and well-kept (saw toilet bowl cleaner in the morning), no stalls ran out of toilet paper, and there was soap most of the time at the sinks. There are even dish washing sinks available with hot running water."
What you should know
Site variations: Individual campsite quality varies significantly within the same campground. At Fahnestock State Park, "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."
Beach capacity limits: During peak summer periods, especially weekends, swimming areas may reach capacity. "On July 4th, my partner and I tried to go to the beach, but were told it was at capacity at 3 different points throughout the day."
Seasonal weather considerations: Early and late season camping can experience significant temperature swings. At Tri-State RV Park, year-round operations provide options even during colder months. "Open during the winter. Easy on, easy off. Lots of pull through sites. CLEAN bathrooms, showers, laundry. Perfect for an overnight stop."
Tips for camping with families
Activity variety: Campgrounds with multiple recreation options help keep children engaged. At Thousand Trails Rondout Valley, "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. The creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish."
Kid-friendly water features: Several campgrounds maintain designated swimming areas with shallow sections for young swimmers. "The campground has a pool, concession stand, game room, playgrounds, sports field and more. Sites are well groomed. We had one and a babbling brook was 30 feet behind us. Great spot for morning coffee."
Playground access: Many campgrounds maintain playground equipment to help children burn energy between outdoor adventures. "This is a large family campground with tons of stuff to do, I was pleasantly surprised by how quiet it was. I really enjoyed our visit."
RV tips
Pull-through availability: For larger rigs, advance contact is essential at some campgrounds. At Mountain Top RV Park, recent infrastructure improvements have expanded capacity for larger vehicles. "The newly upgraded camp infrastructure elevated the stay, providing amenities for comfort and entertainment. The investment in new 50amp wiring, upgraded sewer systems, and newer water lines provided convenient camping experience."
Seasonal site flooding: Be aware of potential water issues in certain areas during heavy rains. "If you're booking, it may be best to book on the upper levels because the lower area where we were did flood pretty bad a couple times when there was a lot of rain."
Highway noise levels: RV parks with convenient highway access may experience traffic noise. At Tri-State RV Park, "Located just off the highway so lots of vehicle noise 24/7. Sites are on a gravel lot. Restrooms are clean. Not much else to say about this CG, is just a parking lot with hookups."