Camping options near Poestenkill extend throughout the eastern New York region, with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,200 feet across varied terrain. Most campgrounds operate from May through October, with temperatures averaging 45-75°F during camping season. Winter conditions generally make camping impractical from December through March, though some yurt camping facilities near Poestenkill maintain limited availability during colder months.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Taconic State Park offers trails connecting to Bash Bish Falls, accessible from campsites. A camper noted, "Had a couple spots right next to each other on a group trip. There are plenty of hiking trails nearby and of course, trails to Bash Bish Falls which is beautiful" (Taconic Copake Falls).
Mountain biking access: Molly Stark State Park provides a central location for mountain biking enthusiasts with Mount Snow nearby. According to one visitor, "This is a nice campground that my fiance and I stayed at after a day of mountain biking at Mount Snow. It had good facilities, a few lean-to's if you were lucky enough to get them booked before they were gone" (Molly Stark State Park Campground).
Fishing opportunities: Several ponds and lakes across the region offer fishing options, though catch rates vary by season. A visitor to Woodford State Park commented, "Didnt have any luck fishing at North or South pond. A lot of hiking trails in the area. Went to Tannery Falls, beautiful waterfall. About a 20 minute drive away, worth a visit."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Moreau Lake State Park provides wooded separation between campsites, creating natural barriers. According to one review, "I love the spacious campsites. It's very woodsy between sites, so it seems very private. Bathrooms and Showers are clean. Over 20 miles in hiking trails, this is one of the nicest parks, I've visited" (Moreau Lake State Park Campground).
Water features: Many campgrounds feature ponds, lakes, or water attractions that enhance the camping experience. A camper at Spacious Skies Woodland Hills noted, "The pond has a fountain which sounds like a small waterfall at night, and wildflowers were in bloom. Very nice bathrooms and showers, and my dog loved the dog park" (Spacious Skies Woodland Hills).
Community activities: Organized events create social opportunities at several campgrounds. One visitor described, "Over the weekend they had organized corn hole games and several other ways to get physical and have a blast. They also had a community 'Father's Day' breakfast (fathers ate free!) which was open to all and yummy!"
What you should know
Seasonal timing: Most campgrounds in the region operate from mid-May through mid-October, with limited off-season accommodations. A reviewer at October Mountain State Forest noted, "Some of the sites are very visible and a few are tucked away into the woods with privacy. Most are pretty close to their neighbors. Although we were here on Wednesday and Thursday during the summer and the campground was pretty quiet after 9PM" (October Mountain State Forest Campground).
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby roads or infrastructure. One camper reported, "It is near an electrical plant that has a hum all day & night—makes for great white noise when sleeping. There is a road that seems to house construction vehicles that were busy going by early evening and early morning."
Reservation requirements: Advanced booking is essential during peak season, especially for yurt camping near Poestenkill. A visitor commented, "First off no same day reservations or walk ups allowed, second it yells you that the fee is $17.50 per site, I expected a little added extra fee for booking etc.... check out was $58.50 per night."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly campgrounds: Woodford State Park caters specifically to families with children. A reviewer shared, "Perfect for families! there are tons of different types of campsites with either tent spots, lean tus, and a few (hard to get) cabins. bathrooms are plentiful and clean, hot showers for a small price. beautiful clean swimmable lake with a walking trail around it" (Woodford State Park Campground).
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas with varying levels of amenities. One visitor noted, "2 lIfeguarded swimming areas — a kiddie pool and a deep area with floating dock to jump off of. Very short hike (or drive) to the beautiful Bash Bish falls."
Playground access: Many family-oriented campgrounds include playground equipment for children. According to a camper, "There is also a nice playground for kids to enjoy. This is dry camping so there are no hook-ups but there are restrooms and shower."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring leveling equipment. A visitor to Spacious Skies Woodland Hills reported, "Terrain is uneven. Hit and miss on how flat or leave sights are. Although sites are squeezed in, it is a nice family campground. However the site I had was steep grade from steps to picnic table" (Spacious Skies Woodland Hills).
Accessibility considerations: Access roads to some campgrounds present challenges for larger rigs. One camper advised, "It is important to follow the directions and turn off of Rt. 2 onto Central Shaft Road (google maps labels it Shaft Road. It is between the Blue Vista Motor Lodge and Hoosac Range Preserve). The other road that accesses the campground is nearly unpassable with an rv."
Hookup availability: Only certain campgrounds offer full RV hookups, with many providing no-frills camping. A reviewer mentioned, "The road to our campsite was paved and in good shape but there were a few tight spots because of the trees that make it tricky for a big rig (Loop A seems to be the best for big-rigs)."
