RV camping options near Nyack span from basic parking lots with urban views to more natural settings within state parks. Nyack sits along the Hudson River at about 100 feet elevation, with nearby Harriman State Park reaching 1,300 feet. Winter camping remains available at select locations like Croton Point Park, though most campgrounds close between October and April due to freezing temperatures that frequently drop below 20°F.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground offers direct access to hiking opportunities, including connections to the Appalachian Trail. "I used this pack for 2 1/2 weeks backpacking over 200 miles on the Appalachian Trail through the states of New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts," reports one visitor who used the park as a base.
Fishing options: Tri-State RV Park provides access to the Delaware River for anglers. "Safe, clean, and right on the Delaware River. Groceries and Home Depot close buy if you need to restock," mentions a camper named Dave.
Swimming during summer: Beaver Pond Campground features a sandy beach with lifeguards at Welch Lake. "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 one reviewer.
Fall foliage viewing: Fahnestock State Park provides seasonal color changes along hiking paths. "We make a habit of going during the end-of-summer/fall when you can watch the leaves change along the hiking trails, go apple and pumpkin picking near the campsites, and eat some scrumptious apple cinnamon doughnuts and drink pumpkin hot chocolate."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Croton Point Park offers opportunities to observe local fauna. "Lots of wildlife around," notes one reviewer, while another mentions, "This must be one of the most breathtaking camp grounds (family friendly) right on the Hudson."
Tent platforms: Several campers appreciate the raised platforms at Beaver Pond Campground during wet weather. "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," explains Ethan K.
Urban proximity: Skyline RV Camp provides urban proximity for those wanting to combine camping with city visits. While many reviews note the camp has relocated from its original location, its positioning still allows convenient access to urban attractions despite no longer having direct waterfront views.
River views: Multiple campgrounds offer water views, with Croton Point Park situated on a peninsula providing Hudson River access. "A gorgeous camping ground right on the Hudson with beach and trails," one camper shares, adding that it features "gorgeous scenery along the river and a private beach."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Fall camping requires preparation for temperature changes. At Fahnestock State Park, campers note the park remains open later than others: "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful."
Wildlife precautions: Bears frequent Harriman State Park. "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," recounts one visitor, adding that rangers provide "the run down on bear activity in the area."
Noise levels: Some sites experience significant noise from highways or trains. Black Bear RV Park has "distant cars from time to time but not like highway sounds," while Croton Point campers report hearing "them shunting trains all night" from a nearby train depot.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, particularly during peak seasons. For Clarence Fahnestock: "Weekends - this park is FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort offers family-oriented amenities. "Lots of seasonals and lots of cabins, many RV sites I think all with full hookups. Plenty to occupy the kids. Playground, hayride, animals to feed (goats, chickens, donkey and pony)."
Animal encounters: Several campgrounds feature animal interactions. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," reports Faith D. about Pleasant Acres Farm.
Budget options: Beaver Pond Campground provides affordable camping rates. "Camping for just $15," notes one reviewer, adding "Their staff is friendly. I love going here."
Beach accessibility: Croton Point Park includes beach access with safety measures. "There is a lodge and cabins close to the end of the point," and "a private beach which is opened from Wednesday to the weekend with life guards on duty!"
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV sites vary significantly in size and privacy between campgrounds. At Mountain Top RV Park, "The investment in new 50amp wiring, upgraded sewer systems, and newer water lines provided convenient camping experience."
Weather considerations: Mountain Top experiences flooding during heavy rain. "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."
Seasonal availability: Some RV campgrounds near Nyack remain open year-round while others close seasonally. Black Bear RV Park stays open through winter but with limitations: "Basic sites with full hookups for about $80 a night. All the buildings are closed due to Covid, so no laundry & no bathroom."
Navigation challenges: Large rigs face challenges on certain approaches. Tri-State RV Park offers "easy on, easy off. Lots of pull through sites," though some note it's "located just off the highway so lots of vehicle noise 24/7."