Recreational vehicle owners have multiple camping options near New Paltz, New York, a region characterized by varied terrain ranging from 200 to 1,600 feet in elevation. The area sits where the Hudson Valley meets the Shawangunk Ridge, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the seasons. Fall temperature variations can be significant, with daytime highs reaching 75°F while dropping into the 40s at night.
What to do
Creek exploration: Rondout Valley offers opportunities for discovering local waterways. "The creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish," notes Kasey M. about Thousand Trails Rondout Valley.
Historical sites: Visit FDR sites near Rhinebeck within 30 minutes of local campgrounds. As Jean C. explains about Interlake RV Park & Campground, "It took me a while to identify a campground that was convenient for exploring the Hyde Park area, in particular the FDR National Historic Site (20-30 minutes away)."
Fishing: Try Rudd Pond for largemouth bass fishing in the warmer months. "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," mentions Rosie R.
Swimming: Take advantage of lake beaches during summer months. "Beautiful state park, nice clean beach and lake, bathroom and showers were clean," reports Stacey R. about the facilities at Fahnestock State Park.
What campers like
Wooded seclusion: Some campsites offer more privacy than others. "Site #040 was private, but was located next to the Nature Center and a water spigot," explains Jess M. about Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground.
Recreation facilities: Many campgrounds maintain family activity areas. A reviewer at Skyway Camping Resort notes, "Nice pool, this is a good family campground for kids. It's large with nice size sites."
Public transportation access: Some campgrounds are accessible without a car. "When you are camping with a large group of friends and don't all have access to a car, this is the perfect spot. MetroNorth takes you right into Cold Spring, a charming, quaint town with antique shops and beautiful views of the Hudson," explains Robyn S.
Lake views: Several campgrounds feature water views. Katherine P. shares about Rudd Pond Area — Taconic State Park: "This is a really interesting campground that's situated on a hill overlooking Rudd Pond in Taconic State Park. Almost all of the sites have platforms to pitch your tent on... You get a pretty decent view of Rudd Pond, and the sunsets are pretty."
What you should know
Campsite quality varies: Sites can differ significantly within the same campground. "This is what I want for a Catskill campground. It is not a concrete pad haven and yes, there is mud. Our site was even and easy to level on," explains Ian R. about Thousand Trails Rondout Valley.
Reservation timing: Peak season requires advance planning. "This place can book up during camping season in the Northeast so make sure to book early in advance," advises Asher K.
Weather preparedness: Fall temperature swings require layered clothing. "We stayed here in August 2020... You get a pretty decent view of Rudd Pond, and the sunsets are pretty. There is also a trailhead at the end of the campground that connects to the other trails in Taconic State Park," notes Katherine P.
Bathroom conditions: Facility maintenance varies between campgrounds. "Bathrooms and dishwashing... UGH. So old and dirty!!!" mentions Courtney D. about one location, while others report clean facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Look for dedicated beaches with facilities. "The lake is beautiful and clean. Expect to pay $15 fee (I think) to use your paddleboards/kayaks etc. Worth every penny," shares Mellisa T. about Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground.
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas. Mountain Top RV Park features "a newly upgraded pool, playground, game room, and a brand-new pickleball court," according to Jason G.
Rainy day options: Some locations have indoor facilities. "Clean facilities, with a rec room for rainy days. A camp store with all the supplies you might have forgotten," notes Kurt S.
Organized activities: Check for scheduled events. "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," reports Kasey M.
Tips from RVers
Winter camping limitations: Few rv sites near New Paltz, New York remain open year-round. "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," explains Gabbie Y. about Black Bear RV Park, adding "none of their amenities/buildings were open."
Site leveling: Be prepared for uneven terrain. "There are lots of pull through sites... Yes, right off the hwy and you can hear it. At the end of a road, so I felt safe. Gem of a spot if you're just looking for a place to hook in & zone out for the night," shares BENdejo about Tri-State RV Park.
Flooding concerns: Consider site location when booking. "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," advises HomegrownRV about Mountain Top RV Park.
Reservation process: Some parks only accept phone bookings in off-season. "They currently only accept reservations over the phone. The person I spoke to was friendly and helpful," explains Gabbie Y.
