The Montrose area offers several RV camping options within 30-45 minutes of New York City. Campgrounds in this region are situated among the Hudson Highlands with elevations ranging from 200 to 1,300 feet. Most sites open April through October, with a few year-round options available for winter camping enthusiasts.
What to do
Waterfront activities: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides access to the harbor and nearby water recreation. "Small campground. Sites very close to one another. Close to ferry for downtown and Statue of Liberty. People are very nice and accommodating," reports Missy S.
Hiking trails: Beaver Pond Campground connects to numerous trail systems. "A quick 40 minutes north of NYC, Harriman State Park has an eclectic little campground called Beaver Pond. The grounds are just steps away from Welch Lake, offering a lifeguard monitored sandy beach which is open during the summer season for swimming, fishing, and small boat craft further out," notes Steve W.
Historical exploration: The region contains Revolutionary War sites accessible from campgrounds. "It terminates at Iona Island Bird Sanctuary, a lovely long grassed marshland. The trails in the area are friendly to hikers, bikers, and the non arthritic kneers, as most are rated moderate to challenging," adds Steve W.
What campers like
Easy city access: Liberty Harbor RV Park attracts campers wanting to visit NYC. "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8. Staff is average, as this is not meant to be high end. They are nice but a bit rough," reports Joe R.
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds feature natural habitats with regular wildlife sightings. "We spent 3 nights here last week. I was in NYC for business and we took our RV. Very convenient location. My wife visited Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island," writes Kevin A.
Recreational amenities: Thousand Trails Rondout Valley offers extensive on-site activities. "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," shares Katie B.
What you should know
Site types vary significantly: Sites range from basic to full-hookup. "The campground offers several different sites, from platform tent spaces to those for 25' trailers. All sites have a standard picnic table and fire ring," explains Steve W.
Noise levels fluctuate: Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground can be busy during peak season. "Busy Campground on Weekends! This park has a nice open beach on Canopus Lake with a concession area and bathhouse, which we found to be quite clean," advises Shelly B.
Maintenance conditions: Some campgrounds need updates. "This is a pricey park, but options are limited. As in almost non existent. This is a prime location for visiting the city or heading down the shore," explains Joe R.
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies between campgrounds. "Bathrooms and dishwashing... UGH. So old and dirty!!! The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful," reports Courtney D.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation: Skyway Camping Resort offers swimming options for children. "Very nice and clean. Too hot today, will check it out tonight. Nice pool, this is a good family campground for kids. It large with nice size sites," notes Ron H.
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated play areas. "Beautiful campground. 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," describes Kasey M.
Wildlife education: Kids enjoy spotting local fauna at several campgrounds. "The creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish. The nearby towns are adorable and offer shopping, hiking, farms, and more," adds Kasey M.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Black Bear RV Park accommodates larger vehicles but may need leveling equipment. "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," notes Dave S.
Utility reliability: Water access varies seasonally at some RV campgrounds near Montrose. "We are returning to the south after spending a couple months of fall in New England. We have short driving days and we try stop after every couple hundred miles for one night at a time, just to sleep, shower and eat," shares Gabbie Y.
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult entry points. "We recently had the pleasure of staying at Mountain Top and were impressed by the exceptional experience and service provided by the owners. The newly upgraded camp infrastructure elevated the stay," reports Jason G.
Off-season considerations: Tri-State RV Park operates year-round but with limited facilities. "Open during the winter. Easy on, easy off. Lots of pull through sites. Next to grocery store. CLEAN bathrooms, showers, laundry. Super nice owners. Perfect for an overnight stop," recommends BENdejo.
