The Catskill Mountains region surrounding Nassau, New York ranges in elevation from 400 to over 4,000 feet, creating diverse camping conditions across relatively short distances. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F, with higher elevations experiencing cooler nights even during peak season. Most campgrounds in this area are seasonal operations, closing by mid-October due to the region's significant snowfall and winter conditions.
What to do
Hiking with water views: Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground in Ancram offers several trails around its centerpiece lake. "The lake is beautiful and clean. Expect to pay $15 fee (I think) to use your paddleboards / kyacks etc. Worth every penny," notes Mellisa T. about Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: The region's relatively low light pollution creates excellent conditions for night sky viewing. "Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low," explains one visitor about Lake Taghkanic. The park's location away from major urban centers contributes to clearer night skies.
Mountain exploration: Mount Greylock provides numerous trails within a reasonable drive. "Great access to Mt Greylock and LOTS of hiking close by. Staff was so accommodating-always willing to spend time giving recommendations," shares Stephanie about Mt. Greylock Campsite Park.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept shower and restroom buildings. At Rudd Pond Area, "New bath house with multiple shower rooms" impressed Lisa S., who stayed at Rudd Pond Area — Taconic State Park. These facilities typically include hot water showers, though some operate on timed push-button systems.
Platform tent sites: Several campgrounds offer raised wooden platforms for tent camping. "The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection," reports Rosie R. about Lake Taghkanic. These platforms prove especially valuable during wet conditions and provide more level surfaces.
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds feature designated swimming areas with varying amenities. "The sites were a little close together, but being able to fish and catching 2 decent-sized largemouth bass made everything all ok," notes another camper about Rudd Pond Area. Most swimming areas open Memorial Day through Labor Day, with some requiring additional fees.
What you should know
Sloped camping sites: Several campgrounds in the area feature uneven terrain. "The site was slightly slanted but that did help with drainage when we had torrential downpours," explains Rebecca L. about Mt. Greylock Campsite Park. Bringing leveling blocks for RVs is highly recommended at most locations.
Variable cell service: Connectivity fluctuates throughout the region. According to a visitor at Schodack Island State Park Campground, "It was enough for me to work - downloading files, sending emails, and conducting non-video zoom calls. At night we were able to stream with just a little buffering needed throughout."
Wildlife encounters: The area supports diverse animal populations. "Many exotic birds (for a Brooklyn boy, anything that is not a pigeon or sparrow is exotic). We had frequent visits from Gray Catbirds, and I saw a glimpse of a Bald Eagle through the treeline," reports Joseph C. about Schodack Island. Morning and evening hours typically offer best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks maintain dedicated children's play areas. "Big and spacious state park with many camping options... Big lake with swimming and boating as well as many hiking trails... Fire pits are great," describes Mary-Kate L. about Spacious Skies Woodland Hills.
Recreation halls for rainy days: Some campgrounds provide indoor activity spaces. "Clean facilities, with a rec room for rainy days. A camp store with all the supplies you might have forgotten," writes Kurt S. about Lake Taghkanic, making it suitable for families needing backup plans during inclement weather.
Family-friendly activities: Organized events keep younger campers engaged. According to Amy G. about Spacious Skies Woodland Hills, "We rented a rustic campsite for a long weekend and it was way better than expected. The staff was helpful, the site was pretty and there are so many places to hike and the best of the Berkshires so close by."
Tips from RVers
Varied hookup availability: RV sites near Nassau, New York offer diverse utility options. At Alpine Lake RV Resort, "Our site was back-in and had plenty of space. There's a lot of green space in this campground and it's right on the river," reports Tina. Most RV campgrounds in the region provide 30/50 amp electrical service, though not all offer full hookups.
Site selection considerations: Choose carefully based on rig size and terrain. "Some of the sites look like they were bigger sites that were then split, but now are two or three separate sites sharing a entryway. Great for a big party with multiple campers, but not great if you're that close to strangers," notes one camper about site layouts in the region.
Road navigation challenges: Internal campground roads can present difficulties. According to April L., "The roads are narrow and many should be one way, but are not. It would have been impossible many places in the grounds to pass a rig on the road due to the amount of other's vehicles, golf carts, decorations etc." RVers should consider arrival timing to avoid busy check-in periods.
