The Pittstown region sits at approximately 500 feet elevation within the Taconic Mountains, with nearby campgrounds spanning into adjacent areas of Vermont and Massachusetts. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop into the 30s. Most campgrounds in the region remain open from May through mid-October.
What to do
Kayaking and paddling on the Battenkill River: The river provides excellent paddling options with moderate currents suitable for various skill levels. At Camping On The Battenkill in Arlington, Vermont, visitors note the convenient river access. "We were at site 17, and it was a massive site. Lots of room would be great for a large family or group. The beach on the river is beautiful and clean! Easy swimming for all," reports Christina M.
Fishing for trout: Several campsites offer fishing opportunities within walking distance of camping areas. Pine Hollow Campground has a stocked pond with catch-and-release trout fishing. According to AcIdBuRn, it's "a very quiet and clean campground. Friendly people and nice pond for swimming and catch and release trout fishing."
Hiking at Mount Greylock: The trail network includes routes suitable for day hikes from nearby campgrounds. Sperry Road Campground at Mount Greylock State Reservation offers direct trail access. "The hike in was a fairly easy 1.3 to the campground. The sites were huge and spread out. Although we could kind of see our neighbors if we tried, we were far enough away that we weren't looking at them all weekend," writes Heidi R.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campers value the natural separation between sites at certain campgrounds. At Woodford State Park Campground in Woodford, Vermont, Melissa S. found the environment peaceful: "We love the VT state parks and try to camp there 3-4 times a summer. Site 13 was on the corner of the first loop, but that wasn't an issue to us at all! There were plenty of trees and brush and space so we didn't feel we were in the road."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds with well-maintained bathhouses receive consistently positive reviews. Schodack Island State Park Campground stands out for its facility maintenance. Kara W. notes: "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, so just be aware of that. Lots of water fill ups in the campground."
Waterfront sites: Campsites with direct water access are highly valued. According to Jenny A., Woodford State Park offers "a small reservoir with a little beach that you can swim or kayak/canoe in. There's a bunch of fish and other little creatures so it's fun to explore." Similarly, at Cherry Plain State Park Campground, Caleb G. reports, "It was nice and calm at the campground. The staff where nice and the pond was beautiful. Very quite and relaxing."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the region require advance booking, especially for weekend stays from June through August. Sites can fill 2-3 months in advance for holiday weekends.
Limited cell service: Several campgrounds have minimal or no connectivity. At Woodford State Park, campers can expect to disconnect completely. As Angelica H. explains, the campground "offers great hiking and a casual feel to it. Good for passer byes or staying the weekend to go fishing. Again on Route 9 so not the quietest campground, but there are back sites that offer some more privacy if wanted."
Walk-in site considerations: Some of the most scenic camping areas require carrying equipment from parking areas. At Cherry Plain State Park Campground, professorthedog P. describes: "Quiet campgrounds with multiple kinds of sites. We stayed in a hike in site, near the bathroom facilities, but out of view. It's a steep, short hike uphill."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas for children. At Aqua Vista Valley Campgrounds, Mary F. shares: "We went for the Halloween event, and the kids had a great day and evening! They really enjoyed trick or treating!!!" The campground hosts regular family activities throughout the camping season.
Swimming options for children: Shallow water access points provide safer swimming for younger family members. According to Sandy M. at Woodford State Park, "The views on some of the sites to the lake are beautiful. The grounds and facilities are well kept. And you are close to both Bennington and Wilmington."
Weekend activity planning: Most dog-friendly campgrounds near Pittstown offer scheduled weekend activities during peak season. Adventure Bound Camping Resort at Deer Run in Schaghticoke provides regular programming for children. Lauren reports: "Family oriented. The kids loved love water attractions. Our site was large and shaded."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Come prepared with leveling blocks as many sites require adjustment. At Adventure Bound, Lauren notes: "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."
Water and electric hookup locations: Plan for appropriate cord and hose lengths, as utility connections may not be optimally positioned. At Pine Hollow Campground, Robert K. found: "We had a full hookup site and everything worked well. Would definitely stay there again if I'm in the area."
Big rig accessibility: Larger RVs should verify access routes and site dimensions before booking. Andrzej K. reports that Pine Hollow Campground is "Clean, friendly stuff, large RV welcome, but it seems tight for the big ones. We had a site with Electric and Water hook up. There are sewer hook up available also."
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