The Taconic Mountains frame the landscape around Old Chatham, New York, with elevations reaching around 2,000 feet in nearby areas. Summer temperatures typically range from 60°F to 85°F, with cooler evenings even during July and August. Fall camping becomes popular from mid-September through October when the deciduous forests display peak foliage colors.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground, campers can fish for largemouth bass in the calm waters of the 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. The park allows both shore fishing and boat-based angling.
Hiking trails: The area offers various trail systems suitable for different skill levels. At Taconic State Park, visitors can access multiple trail networks. "There are lots of trails to explore. Many unmarked," according to Erica H. Nearby Bash Bish Falls is recommended as a day hike destination from the campground.
Stargazing: The region's lower light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing conditions. Seth K. explains that at Lake Taghkanic, "Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low." Fall and winter offer the clearest night skies due to drier air conditions.
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Elevated wooden platforms at several campgrounds provide practical camping surfaces regardless of ground conditions. "The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection," shares Rosie R. about Lake Taghkanic during rainy weather. These platforms range from 10x12 to 14x14 feet depending on the site.
Clean facilities: Schodack Island State Park Campground receives consistent praise for well-maintained bathrooms. "The bathrooms are clean. The showers are large, but they do operate on a push system where you can't adjust the pressure, temp, or how long the water comes out," notes Kara W. Most campground bathrooms feature hot water showers available during standard camping seasons.
Wildlife viewing: Local campgrounds support diverse wildlife populations. Joseph C. reports from Schodack Island: "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." Morning and evening hours offer the best wildlife observation times.
What you should know
Campsite privacy: Site layouts and vegetation create varying degrees of privacy between campgrounds. At Fernwood Forest Campground, "Large sites with trees give lots of privacy," according to Rebecca B. Meanwhile, Todd M. advises about Mt. Greylock: "Call them up and ask for their help choosing something that offers privacy."
Cell service considerations: Mobile connectivity varies significantly by location and carrier. Kara W. reports that at Schodack Island, "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." Most campgrounds near population centers offer some connectivity, while more remote locations may have none.
Seasonal differences: The region experiences distinct camping seasons with different conditions. Spring often brings wet conditions, while Katherine P. notes about Rudd Pond: "We stayed here in August 2020. This is a really interesting campground that's situated on a hill overlooking Rudd Pond in Taconic State Park." Winter camping options are extremely limited in this area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play equipment for children. At Prospect Mountain Campground, Sandra S. mentions, "They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing." Most playground facilities are centrally located near bathhouses or camp stores.
Swimming areas: Designated swimming spots provide safer water recreation. "Great beach, 5 minute drive from campgound. Clean facilities, with a rec room for rainy days," reports Kurt S. about Lake Taghkanic. Supervised swimming areas typically operate between Memorial Day and Labor Day, with some extending through mid-September depending on staffing.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife programs and interpretive activities enhance family camping experiences. At Schodack Island, Chris D. notes they have "large playground, boat ramp and hiking/biking trails. It sits under some extremely large cottonwood trees and there is an abundance of wildlife." Most state parks offer weekend naturalist programs during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Dump station logistics: RV waste management varies between campgrounds. At Mt. Greylock Campsite Park, staff provide an uncommon service where "they will dump tanks for guests upon departure." Most campgrounds with dump stations position them near the exit roads for convenient access when leaving.
Site dimensions: RV site sizes differ significantly across the region's campgrounds. Kara W. remarks about Schodack Island: "The sites are amongst the most spacious I've ever seen. RV sites offer 30/50 amp electricity." Site sizes typically range from standard 30-foot pull-throughs to larger 45-foot sites at newer facilities.
Road conditions: Access roads present challenges for larger vehicles in certain areas. Lisa S. notes about Rudd Pond: "Camper van off the grid. Large site with privacy, but not many campers early season." Most campground websites provide road restriction information, but calling ahead is recommended for RVs longer than 35 feet.
