Campsites near Mountainville, New York offer diverse experiences across several state parks and private facilities within an hour's drive of the Hudson Valley. The region sits at elevations between 300-1,400 feet with terrain that transitions from rolling hills to more rugged mountain paths. During summer months, overnight temperatures typically drop into the 50s even when daytime highs reach the 80s, making proper sleeping gear essential for tent campers.
What to do
Hiking around lakes: At Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground, campers can access multiple water features. "There is a 1.5 mile Pelton Pond hike loop" with "easy access" from several campsites, according to Jess M. The park includes "two ponds that our neighbor campers said were great for catching panfish."
Water activities beyond swimming: While some area lakes close after summer, several remain accessible. "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite," notes Courtney D. about Fahnestock's facilities. At Beaver Pond Campground, 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," according to Steve W.
Historic exploration: Many campsites serve as bases for exploring Revolutionary War-era sites. Near Beaver Pond, "a quick 15 minute drive is Bear Mountain State Park. Here you can find some of the Appalachian Trail, with various smaller trail heads for this historic (Revolutionary Times 1770s) part of the region including the one to Doodle Town."
What campers like
Spacious site layouts: Campers consistently mention appreciating well-designed sites. At Winding Hills Park, "the sites are gravel/dirt & grass" and "the biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. You definitely feel like you have your own space and are not camping on top of your neighbor," notes Ethan K.
Platform tent options: Several campgrounds near Mountainville feature raised platforms. "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," writes Ethan K. about Beaver Pond. These platforms provide practical benefits beyond comfort, keeping gear dry during wet weather.
Laundry accessibility: For extended stays, several campgrounds offer laundry facilities. At New York City North-Newburgh KOA, Chelsea B. found "laundry facilities were clean and open 24/7 with reasonable prices 2.50/2.00 washer/dryer. And the dryers actually worked."
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Bears are active in the region and campground staff take this seriously. At Beaver Pond, the welcome includes specific warnings: "'Welcome to Bear Mountain' grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He is in his ranger hut, checking in the late evening arrivals to the campground... and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area," reports Steve W.
Reservation requirements vary: Not all campgrounds require advance booking. At Croton Point Park, "the reservation process is a bit wonky. You need to call (no online reservations) and then wait for an e-mail, but the e-mail does not tell you your assigned site," according to Lee D. At Winding Hills, "reservations are needed only for major holidays during camping season; Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day," states Amanda B.
Military-only options: Some excellent facilities are restricted to military personnel. "Round Pond is camping reserved for active and retired military personnel only," explains Ethan K. about West Point FMWR Round Pond Recreation Area. These facilities often maintain higher standards, with Heather M. noting that being "military-only keeps standards high, the campground clean and well maintained."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Families seeking structured activities should consider Jellystone Park Gardiner. "This campground has a lot of activities and has kids of all ages galore. I was worried my 12 year old would be too old for it but he enjoyed making friends there," shares Stephanie H. The facility includes "a nice pool that is shallow so you can relax and let the little ones go in the water park section alone."
Budget camping options: For affordable family trips, consider state parks with basic amenities. At Beaver Pond, one reviewer noted this is "an off-grid camping experience" available for "just $15," providing access to beach facilities and friendly staff while keeping costs manageable.
Weekday camping advantages: For families seeking quieter experiences, timing matters. At Clarence Fahnestock, "weekends - this park is FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!" reports Shelly B. Similarly, Rebecca S. noted that "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."
Tips from RVers
Wi-Fi considerations: RVers requiring connectivity should research options carefully. At Newburgh KOA, Chelsea B. reports, "I work remotely and WiFi is always an issue. We have Starlink but in a wooded campsite, connecting is an issue but luckily their WiFi was great. Had no issues and could stream just fine."
Water access variations: Not all sites offer full hookups. Amanda B. notes that at Winding Hills, "there are water spigots around the grounds and attached to the bathroom facilities. But no actual sites with water hookups for RVs." However, "dump and potable water fill available here. Dump is kept locked, but there's a number to call and staff will come unlock for you."
Site selection strategies: At Fahnestock, Jess M. advises that "each site varied quite a bit from the other" while others recommend checking campground maps before arrival. At Winding Hills, "check the parks website to see site sizes before going or stop and take your pick of what's available."
