Campsites near Pine Plains, New York offer varied accommodations within the scenic Hudson Valley region at elevations ranging from 500-800 feet. Located between the Taconic Mountains and the Hudson River, this area features a mix of wooded campsites, lakefront options, and facilities that remain open primarily from April through October. Weather conditions range from mild spring temperatures to colorful fall foliage season when nighttime temperatures can drop below 50°F.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Access trails leading to Bash Bish Falls from Taconic State Park, where the short hike crosses state lines into Massachusetts. "Bash bish falls are just a short drive," notes one Rudd Pond camper. Another visitor at Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park mentions, "I loved the dock. Close to great hiking."
Fishing opportunities: Try catching largemouth bass at Rudd Pond in Taconic State Park. "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," shares a visitor at Rudd Pond Area — Taconic State Park.
Historical exploration: Visit the FDR National Historic Site about 20-30 minutes from the Rhinebeck area. A camper at Interlake RV Park noted, "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 and the Walkway over the Hudson."
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Elevated platforms at some campgrounds provide better protection during rainy weather. "The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection! The lake is gorgeous and there are plenty of nearby hikes for exploring," shares a reviewer at Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground.
Well-maintained pools: Several campgrounds offer maintained swimming areas during summer months. At Brook N Wood Family Campground, one visitor mentioned, "They have a great heated pool that our little one loved. Lots of space to run around and a cute mini golf area."
Year-round cabin options: Some locations offer cabins for visitors who prefer not to tent camp. "No complaints. everything is perfect every year we've been. the lake is beautiful and clean. expect to pay $15 fee (I think) to use your paddleboards / kyacks etc. Worth every penny," notes a cabin camper at Lake Taghkanic.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary: Bathhouses at some campgrounds receive more maintenance than others. "Showers are hot and there's great water pressure. The cleanliness of the bathrooms depends on how busy the campground is," explains a reviewer at Lake Taghkanic State Park.
Site privacy differences: Campsite proximity varies significantly between and within campgrounds. A camper at Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground advised, "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site. This place can book up during camping season in the Northeast so make sure to book early in advance."
Weekend crowds: Many campgrounds experience higher occupancy and noise levels Friday through Sunday. "This was a truly great campground, but its proximity to NYC draws large crowds on weekends," notes one Taconic State Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming: Look for designated swimming areas with lifeguards and shallow sections. "Big and spacious state park with many camping options. Has options for trailers, tent sites, platforms for tents and even some cabins. Small store in park that sells firewood and ice and a few other things you may need. Big lake with swimming and boating as well as many hiking trails," shares a visitor at Lake Taghkanic.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds for children. At Thousand Trails Rondout Valley, a camper noted, "This is a large family campground with tons of stuff to do, I was pleasantly surprised by how quiet it was. I really enjoyed our visit."
Rainy day activities: Some parks offer indoor recreation options. One Lake Taghkanic visitor mentioned, "Great beach, 5 minute drive from campgound. Clean facilities, with a rec room for rainy days. A camp store with all the supplies you might have forgotten."
Tips from RVers
Seasonal spacing strategy: When booking rv sites near Pine Plains, New York during peak season, consider timing. "Management spaced out the reservations so people camping together could be together, but then allowed empty sites in between each group," explains a Brook N Wood visitor describing their summer 2020 experience.
Electricity considerations: Most rv camping options near Pine Plains provide various hookup configurations. At Interlake RV Park & Campground, "Full amenities - stay for a few days or a season; lots to keep you occupied," notes one RVer who appreciated the range of site options.
Extended stay potential: Some campgrounds accommodate longer visits with full facilities. "Stayed there for 3 weeks for work it was quite priced very reasonably for full hook up and about a half hour from stunning views," shares an Interlake RV Park visitor about their extended stay experience.
