Emily F.
Guide
GuideMax V. Shaul State Park Campground
Site 13
Our site had a lot of space. Watched a video on YouTube that was a walk through of each site. So peaceful. Lots of good hiking. Sinks for dishes, clean bathrooms and showers.
Best Campgrounds near Newtonville, NY
The Capital Region surrounding Newtonville, New York features a diverse range of camping options within a 30-mile radius. State parks like Schodack Island and Cherry Plain offer established campgrounds with amenities including electric hookups, showers, and picnic tables. For those seeking more primitive experiences, Ushers Road State Forest provides dispersed camping opportunities with minimal facilities but greater privacy. Private campgrounds such as Adventure Bound at Deer Run (open May to October) and Arrowhead Marina & RV Park complement the public options, often providing additional amenities like full hookups for RVs, camp stores, and organized activities. The area's camping landscape spans from basic tent sites to full-service RV resorts.
Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from late April through mid-October, with state facilities typically closing earlier in fall. Cell service varies significantly, with better coverage at private resorts and limited to no connectivity in more remote areas. Weather considerations include summer thunderstorms and occasional tropical storm systems that can impact the area. As one camper noted at North-South Lake Campground, "There are bears that visit the campground and one came one night to our neighbor's site." Wildlife encounters require proper food storage, with some campgrounds providing bear boxes. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer weekends and holiday periods when facilities often reach capacity.
Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews from visitors to the region. At Northampton Beach Campground, one camper observed that "many campsites have lakeside access, although do pay attention to the time of year as the water level can drop considerably over the summer." Site privacy varies considerably between facilities, with some campgrounds offering well-spaced, wooded sites while others place units in closer proximity. Family-friendly amenities are common at larger established campgrounds, with one visitor to North-South Lake noting an "ice cream truck comes around each evening in the summer." Hiking trails accessible directly from campgrounds represent another frequently mentioned highlight, allowing campers to explore the surrounding forests and waterways without driving to separate trailheads.
Best Camping Sites Near Newtonville, New York (190)
1. Schodack Island State Park Campground
17 ReviewsCoeymans, NY15 milesWebsite+1 (518) 732-0187$17 - $26 / night
"The park ensures you’ll have what you need with stores within close proximity and the staff even offers ice and firewood delivery to your site."
"Wonderful hikes and beautiful walks. Boat docks looked pretty easy for ins and outs, and the pavilions were huge!"
2. Thompson's Lake Campground — Thacher State Park
7 ReviewsAltamont, NY16 milesWebsite+1 (518) 872-1674$17 / night
"Some of the lakeside sites have private foot trails down to the water which was very nice."
"Hiking was near by and also the beach and if you wanted to drive to where the falls are and the overlook it wasn't too far! We had an amazing time!"
3. Adventure Bound Camping Resort at Deer Run
3 ReviewsMechanicville, NY13 milesWebsite+1 (866) 333-7462"There was a nice little dog park fenced in area for my dog to run around in."
4. Mt. Greylock Campsite Park
30 ReviewsLanesborough, MA29 miles+1 (413) 447-9419$40 - $70 / night
"Great access to Mt Greylock and LOTS of hiking close by. Staff was so accommodating-always willing to spend time giving recommendations."
"Great family atmosphere w very positive neighbors and owners... Fantastic. 5 stars"
5. Cherry Plain State Park Campground
6 ReviewsCherry Plain, NY19 milesWebsite+1 (518) 733-5400$14 - $17 / night
"We love the loop of sites near the entrance near the water for views but close to the bathroom, ranger station, and trails. Farther from the beach so there is less impact from the day visitors."
"There are a number of “walk in” sites that are all lovely, I suggest the sites toward the back of the park. Hot showers, bathrooms, and dishwashing stations are available."
6. Ushers Road State Forest
1 ReviewRound Lake, NY13 miles"This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side."
7. Arrowhead Marina & RV Park
2 ReviewsRotterdam Junction, NY15 milesWebsite+1 (518) 382-8966"We were next to a little fenced in area for dogs that our dog loved."
"Well maintained, located on the Mohawk River. Shady, grassy areas. Boat launch and pier. Friendly people. A perfect campground."
8. Aqua Vista Valley Campgrounds
5 ReviewsPetersburg, NY21 milesWebsite+1 (518) 658-36599. Lee's Park Campground
7 ReviewsSaratoga Springs, NY22 milesWebsite+1 (518) 584-1951$20 - $45 / night
"Close to SPAC, lots of area to set up tents, dog friendly, campfire friendly, and there’s a lake minutes away. Some of the crowd seemed a little rowdy but overall nothing that was obnoxious."
"I have absolutely nothing but good things to say about Lee’s after spending my weekend there, the park staff was so awesome, the vibes were great, there was parking along the dirt pathed roads that ran"
10. Frosty Acres Campground
3 ReviewsDuanesburg, NY19 milesWebsite+1 (518) 864-5352
Recent Camping Photos near Newtonville, NY
475 Photos of 190 Newtonville Campgrounds
Brandilyn W.
Adventure Bound Camping Resort at Deer Run
Eleanor the Airstream R.
Schodack Island State Park Campground
George D.
Thompson's Lake Campground — Thacher State Park
Justin L.
Plotter Kill Camping
Stephanie S.
Cherry Plain State Park Campground
Rob M.
Dingman's Family Campground
Dilara E.
Abracadabra magic farm
Julie H.
Cherry Plain Sanctuary Farm
Daniel B.
Lee's Park Campground
Tarah Z.
Piebald Mountain
The Dyrt
Tentrr Signature Site - Campaway on Cotton Hill
The Dyrt
Tentrr Signature Site - Belle Vue Pond and River Haven
Recent Reviews near Newtonville, NY
700 Reviews of 190 Newtonville Campgrounds
Jacob Y.
ScoutDevil's Tombstone Campground
Entitled Arrogant Staff
We have camped for years all over the Northeast and have never experienced campground staff as rude, patronizing, and overbearing as we did at Devil’s Tombstone Campground. It felt like our group was constantly being watched and corrected over every minor thing imaginable instead of simply being treated like paying guests trying to enjoy the weekend. The campground itself was disappointing, but the staff attitude was by far the worst part of the experience. Unless you want to be nitpicked every time you do literally anything, then you might not want to camp here.
- Jacob Y.Scout
Devil's Tombstone Campground
Entitled Arrogant Staff
We have camped for years all over the Northeast and have never experienced campground staff as rude, patronizing, and overbearing as we did at Devil’s Tombstone Campground. It felt like our group was constantly being watched and corrected over every minor thing imaginable instead of simply being treated like paying guests trying to enjoy a weekend camping. The campground itself was disappointing, but the staff attitude was by far the worst part of the experience. We do not recommend this campground to anyone, unless you want to have anxiety when they drive by every 5 minutes to check on every minor thing. By the way, the walk from the check in shack to the end of the campground is at most 0.2 miles.
Danielle S.ScoutDevil's Tombstone Campground
Experienced Campers — First Time Ever Leaving a Negative Review
FYI this is my first time ever writing a negative campground review, but this experience deserves one. Our large family group stayed at Devil’s Tombstone Campground over Memorial Day weekend, and despite having camped dozens of times over the years, this was by far the worst campground and staff experience we’ve ever had.
When we arrived there was no caretaker present, no cell service to call the posted number, and we were later condescendingly told we “should have checked in” and “should have knocked”— both of which we did. We were then told the posted number was “only for emergencies,” despite nowhere stating that. The first caretaker who checked us in was pleasant, but after that it felt like staff constantly monitored and corrected our group over extremely minor issues: partially parking on grass, briefly parking near the bathroom walkway, plugging into an outlet near the restroom during 40-degree rainy weather, hanging signs, and even checking our tarp lines on trees. Many of these rules were not posted anywhere.
After someone plugged into the bathroom outlet because they were freezing (there was no sign that said you couldn't and it was not listed in the rules), the bathroom power was shut off entirely, leaving the bathrooms without lights at night, which created an obvious safety issue. Around the same time, a camera suddenly appeared near the outlet area, which felt excessive and uncomfortable.
Meanwhile, staff spent hours mowing, weed-whacking, and chain sawing during the middle of Friday on Memorial Day weekend while simultaneously nitpicking campers over every little thing.
The final straw was being told we could not use a fully enclosed propane fire pit with no embers during cold, windy, rainy weather. After expressing frustration over the constant nitpicking, forest rangers were called on us the next morning. Staff reportedly told them we had garbage and food everywhere, which was completely false. Thankfully the rangers themselves were respectful and seemed to quickly realize we were simply a group trying to enjoy our weekend.
The campground itself was also very misleading compared to online photos. The “lake” is more like a shallow pond unsuitable for meaningful fishing, kayaking, or swimming. The supposedly stocked creek running through the campground was completely dry, there is no running water in the bathrooms, and a main road cuts directly through the campground with traffic flying by at highway speeds.
We still managed to have fun because we enjoy spending time outdoors together, but we would absolutely not return or recommend this campground.
- S
Sue
TravelerWoodford State Park Campground
Small reservoir clean sites
I have stayed at several of the waterfront tent and lean-to camp sites. It’s a nice organized place but can get pretty noisy when larger groups take over the loop c spots. There’s an open grassy field near the water at that end of the campground and it doesn’t take much to make a disturbance as sound carries over the water to loop b and a. Several people ignore the no dogs on the beach rule too. Those issues aside it’s a nice accessible campground with quiet water for kayakers like me. Generally I find the flies and mosquitoes are less of a problem once the dragon flies arrive.
Joe P.ScoutLake George RV Park
Sad
Had a site booked for Memorial Day weekend but had a complication to my 5th shoulder surgery in 2.5 years and had my 6th which was a 3rd attempt at rotator cuff repair in mid-May. Called to see if I could change my reservation since I cannot drive due to Dr.'s orders but no dice. Could care less and told me too late due to policy. Offered to provide doctors documentation but didn't matter. I did not ask for refund just to change the date. Rude, dismissive and unwilling to work with me. Sad that a family-oriented place is run this way. End result I am out over$600 and they are smiling. As a business owner myself I would be out of business if I treated my customers this way.
- NNora C.Traveler
Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground
Good sites good walking trails
All around good spot to camp the staff was all really nice the bathrooms were clean my one complaint was how bad the bugs were! Which is no fault to the park! Had a great time will probably go again!
Sue B.
RangerJug End Dispersed — Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Dispersed Camping?
Between Sage's Ravine and Jug End Road there are five backcountry campsites on the Appalachian Trail. Sage's Ravine Laurel Ridge Race Brook Falls (with a shelter) The Hemlocks (with a shelter) Glen Brook (with a shelter) After descending Mt. Everett, you descend to Guilder Pond State Park. It is a day use park with trash cans and in season it also has a porta potty and a few picnic tables. No camping besides those already mentioned, which are all A.T. campsites. Jug End Road allows overnight parking (often used by folks hiking the A.T.) but I wouldn't classify that as dispersed camping unless you just need a place to pull over and sleep for a night. Each site mentioned, with the exception of Race Brook, is no more than .2 off the A.T.
- Ricky H.Guide
Somerset Vt Dispersed on the Deerfield River
Winter camping trip
Went to test out a new coody tent. Arrived on Saturday morning 3/28/26. Found an abandoned camper onsite. Not bad area, but can tell as soon as summer gets here, it will turn into a party camp ground. (not for me)
Guide to Newtonville
The Capital Region camping area near Newtonville, New York sits at approximately 300-400 feet elevation with predominantly deciduous forest cover, creating seasonal variations in camping experiences. Winter conditions from November through March often make dispersed camping challenging, with overnight temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Several camping sites near Newtonville feature direct water access to rivers, lakes, and ponds that offer various recreational opportunities.
What to do
Hiking at Cherry Plain State Park: The park features multiple trails accessible directly from campsites. During summer months, visitors can enjoy walking paths along the pond edge. As one camper noted, "Hiking trails are accessible from the park. Firewood is for sale ($6), and the staff are helpful and friendly."
Kayaking the Hudson River: Schodack Island State Park offers excellent river access for paddlers. The park provides boat ramps and docks for easy water entry. "Our favorite feature was the day use and boat ramp on the Hudson River. We saw many larger boats (maybe small yachts?) during the day. The view from the boat ramp area was amazing," explains one visitor.
Swimming and beach time: Several campgrounds maintain swimming areas with designated beaches for campers. "They have a great beach with swimming, kayak and boat rentals, a nature center next door you can walk too and the bathrooms are refurbished!" shares a regular visitor to Thompson's Lake Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Birding opportunities abound in the region's varied habitats. "Stopped for one night on way from New England to Finger Lakes region... Best part was hiking out to a couple of different blinds to look for birds. Did see a juv eagle," reports one visitor to Schodack Island State Park.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds in the region offer well-separated sites with natural barriers. At Schodack Island State Park, "The sites are amongst the most spacious I've ever seen. RV sites offer 30/50 amp electricity. There are several hiking trails, a bike trail, a really awesome playground, boat dock, and lots of picnicking."
Clean, modern facilities: Mt. Greylock Campsite Park receives consistently positive reviews for maintenance. "The state did an excellent job designing sites with dense foliage as sound and site barriers creating good privacy for campers. Sites are all within 200 feet of the bathrooms. The bathrooms have good showers and were very clean during our stay."
Wooded camping areas: Shade cover proves important during summer months when temperatures can exceed 85°F. "There is a tall canopy of large trees, deciduous and fir, giving a comforting ambience," notes one camper about Mt. Greylock Campsite Park.
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds offer scheduled events during peak season. "Themed weekends and an annual car show" are highlights at Frosty Acres Campground, according to a returning visitor.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between locations, with better coverage at private resorts. "ATT and Verizon fluctuate between 1-3 bars. 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," reports one camper at Schodack Island State Park.
Water level fluctuations: Lake and pond levels can change significantly during summer months. At Cherry Plain State Park, facilities include "Hot showers, bathrooms, and dishwashing stations are available."
Strict pet policies: Several campgrounds enforce documentation requirements. "Be sure to bring your dogs rabies records!! They don't let you in with just the tag, it has to be the paper records. We're full time so not a problem as it's always with me, but they are very strict on rabies requirements."
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds close between October and April. Thompson's Lake Campground at Thacher State Park operates only from "April 29 to October 10," requiring advance planning for spring and fall visits.
Tips for camping with families
Book lake-adjacent sites: Water access provides built-in entertainment for children. "The kids enjoyed the playground area near the beach more. All public areas including the bathrooms are very clean," notes a regular visitor to Thompson's Lake Campground.
Look for playgrounds: Cherry Plain State Park Campground offers family-oriented amenities. "Small, quiet, family friendly. We love the loop of sites near the entrance near the water for views but close to the bathroom, ranger station, and trails."
Consider off-peak timing: Weekdays offer significantly less crowded conditions than weekends. "We were told the place can be quite busy during peak times but we were there during the week," shares a visitor to Schodack Island State Park.
Check for organized activities: Some campgrounds schedule regular family events. "Family oriented. The kids loved love water attractions. Our site was large and shaded," reports a visitor to Adventure Bound Camping Resort at Deer Run.
Tips from RVers
Water fill locations: Not all sites offer direct hookups. At Schodack Island State Park, "Lots of water fill ups in the campground. Dump station on the way out."
Prepare for uneven sites: Leveling blocks often prove necessary. One camper at Adventure Bound Camping Resort at Deer Run noted, "The draw back is where you need to park the camper is about 7 inches out of level. If we stay in the same site again we would come better prepared."
All-season options: Limited winter camping exists at select locations. Frosty Acres Campground offers year-round opportunities: "We stayed from April until October then decided to stay over winter. They have a small winter section. You'll have the entire mountain side all to yourself! Snowshoe, cross country ski. Winter campfires."
Check road conditions: Access routes to some campgrounds present challenges. "The roads in are definitely patched and bumpy, but once you're in the loop things are smooth!" advises a visitor to Schodack Island State Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Newtonville, NY?
What camping is available near Newtonville, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, Newtonville, NY offers a wide range of camping options, with 190 campgrounds and RV parks near Newtonville, NY and 28 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Newtonville, NY?
Which is the most popular campground near Newtonville, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Newtonville, NY is Schodack Island State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 17 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Newtonville, NY?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Newtonville, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 28 free dispersed camping spots near Newtonville, NY.
Keep Exploring