Poestenkill camping areas sit along the eastern edge of New York's Capital District, with elevations ranging from 500 to 800 feet. The surrounding terrain features mixed hardwood forests, small lakes, and seasonal streams that vary significantly in flow between spring runoff and summer months. Winter camping options remain limited across the region, with most facilities closing after mid-October.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: 3-mile round trip to Hamilton Falls from Jamaica State Park Campground follows a gravel road along the West River. "There is plenty of trails in the area and you can go to the waterfall/rock slides and take a dip in the pools. The area is beautiful and good food across the street," notes Jackie G.
Water recreation: Multiple options at ponds and lakes throughout the region. "They have these dinos scattered throughout the park and also a few pools. So much to do on the camp ground and great for group camping! Other larger lakes close by for water sports as well," explains Meag F. about activities at Lake George RV Park.
Mountain biking: Access to forest trails from several campgrounds. "Clean well kept level areas! Staff was friendly! Great hiking or biking along the West River," reports Chris S. about Jamaica State Park's trail system.
Fishing: Freshwater opportunities in stocked ponds and natural lakes. "The sites were large and wooded. Great access to Mt Greylock and LOTS of hiking close by. Staff was so accommodating-always willing to spend time giving recommendations," writes Stephanie about Mt. Greylock Campsite Park.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate water access. "Waterfront sites worth the dollars! Bring your boats and SUP boards for lots of fun! Staff is friendly and helpful. Grounds are large and well maintained. Hikers and water enthusiasts will live this place," shares Deb V. about Alpine Lake RV Resort.
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower quality matters to visitors. "The bathrooms are sanitary and are not port-a-potties. For us, they also had a playground to play at, and a boat dock to kayak," explains Meike W. about Jamaica State Park.
Recreation options: On-site activities receive positive feedback. "There were plenty of activities to keep me entertained — from relaxing by the lake and enjoying the hiking trails to spending time at the recreation areas," notes a reviewer at Alpine Lake RV Resort.
Natural surroundings: Wooded sites provide privacy and shade. "Its got so many different nooks and crannies and so many different levels up and down the hill and Valley and just a beautiful peaceful place in the woods," says Ami B. about Mt. Greylock Campsite Park.
What you should know
Site topography varies significantly: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "The campground has a lot of hills and some are pretty steep. We always bring our bikes and love to bike through the campgrounds, but this one is not good for biking," cautions Kim R. about Mt. Greylock Campsite Park.
Seasonal operations: Most facilities close after mid-October. "Super clean. Great location near a fantastic quarry, country store, and Manchester shopping," mentions Rachelle S. about Dorset RV Park, which operates May through October.
Cell service limitations: Coverage can be spotty in mountainous areas. "Small town general store, no cell service and a gorgeous back drop is a perfect spot to just unwind from the real world," reports Brittany B. about Jamaica State Park.
Reservation requirements: Book early for premium sites, particularly summer weekends. "We drove in on a whim and were pleasantly surprised by how well the staff accommodated us. We managed to get a prime leanto site right on the river," says M.A.D. P., though this experience may be uncommon during peak periods.
Tips for camping with families
Look for designated swimming areas: Several parks maintain beaches with lifeguards. "Nice little weekend getaway. Clean bathrooms, roomy tent sites, nice staff. Fun playground and nature area for kids. Very family friendly place with beautiful hikes to Hamilton falls," writes Fransheska A. about Jamaica State Park.
Consider parks with organized activities: Some facilities offer scheduled entertainment. "The campground is so clean and nice! Perfect for the dogs with best dog park I ever saw. Free shows every night at the playhouse kids loved. Animal shows kept daytime events going strong," says Michael C. about Lake George RV Park.
Platform tent sites: Offer advantages during wet conditions. "This was our second time coming to this campground and our second time getting dumped on by the rain, but have no fear!! The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection," shares Rosie R. about Taconic State Park.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment. "They have movies, dances and even some kayaking, paddling, etc. They have these dinos scattered throughout the park and also a few pools," notes a visitor about recreational options for children.
Tips from RVers
Water pressure concerns: System capacity affects multiple RV sites near Poestenkill, New York. "Had an issue with water pressure on Saturday around 10am and called the office to make sure there was not a known water issue. Front desk knew nothing and said they would send maintenance but we never saw anyone. The situation improved so we think it was just a high demand time of day," reports April L. about Alpine Lake RV Resort.
Navigation challenges: Narrow roads affect accessibility. "Tree placement and a pretty sharp 110+ degree turn makes it challenging to maneuver. I don't think campground staff is familiar with their own campground and that larger rigs are likely to have issue in this loop," warns Katie E. about Dorset RV Park's internal roads.
Site dimensions: Confirm measurements before booking. "Large sites, grounds were very clean, level sites, quiet, staff was very pleasant," reports Eric C. about Ledgeview Village RV Park, which offers sites suitable for larger recreational vehicles.
Hookup placement: Connection locations vary between parks. "Well maintained, located on the Mohawk River. Shady, grassy areas. Boat launch and pier. Friendly people. A perfect campground," notes Coffee&Camping T. about Arrowhead Marina & RV Park, which features full-service waterfront sites.
