Best Campgrounds near Poughquag, NY

The camping landscape surrounding Poughquag, New York encompasses several established campgrounds and natural areas within an hour's drive. Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground, located about 20 miles northeast of Poughquag, provides tent and RV sites with both drive-in and walk-in options. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park offers free dispersed camping on over 900 acres with hike-in access for those seeking more primitive experiences. The region includes a mix of state parks and private campgrounds accommodating various camping styles, from basic tent sites to cabins and glamping options at places like Jellystone Park in Gardiner, which features amenities such as electric hookups, water, and shower facilities.

Reservations are highly recommended during the peak camping season from May through October, when most campgrounds in the area operate at full capacity. Many campgrounds near Poughquag have seasonal operations, with Clarence Fahnestock running from April 15 to December 4 and Jellystone Park Gardiner open from April 16 to November 1. The terrain varies from relatively flat, accessible areas to more rugged woodland settings requiring moderate hiking to reach campsites. Weather considerations include warm, humid summers and increasingly cool temperatures in fall, with potential for rain throughout the camping season. "99% of people don't even know this area exists. If you want a quiet piece of beautiful forest to truly rough it and go camping for a few days, then this is what you have been looking for," noted one review of Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park.

Campers consistently highlight the region's accessibility from New York City as a major advantage. Several visitors mentioned appreciating the forested setting and relative seclusion of certain campsites despite their proximity to urban areas. Clarence Fahnestock State Park receives particular attention for its hiking opportunities, with trails surrounding Canopus Lake and connecting to the Appalachian Trail. According to feedback on The Dyrt, "This is one of my favorite places to go camping with friends. It is so close to the city and has easy access to all the wonderful things in the area." Site privacy varies considerably, with some campgrounds offering well-spaced sites while others feature more communal layouts. Mosquitoes can be problematic during summer months, and campers should be prepared for varying levels of bathroom cleanliness and maintenance at different facilities throughout the region.

Best Camping Sites Near Poughquag, New York (140)

    1. Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground

    34 Reviews
    Fishkill, NY
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 225-7207

    $17 / night

    "This park has a nice open beach on Canopus Lake with a concession area and bathhouse, which we found to be quite clean! They even have boat rentals - or you can bring your own boat to launch!"

    "When you are camping with a large group of friends and don't all have access to a car, this is the perfect spot."

    2. Jellystone Park™ Gardiner

    32 Reviews
    Gardiner, NY
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 255-5193

    "With a new check in area, Gardiner has really stepped up. They expanded the pool area to include another pool plus splash area and water slides."

    "We got a red carpet site by the Gaga pit and near the water park (Cindy bear lane) and it was a convenient yet noisy site. Kids were at the playground 8 am or before and the noise woke us up."

    3. Macedonia Brook State Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    Kent, CT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 927-3238

    $14 / night

    "Our camp spot was right above the river the flows behind this spot. You can go sit down by the water. But be careful!"

    "We camped next to the brook and one couldn't have had a much better experience! Had supper in nearby Kent which is a fantastic small village."

    4. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    3 Reviews
    Verbank, NY
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 256-3000

    "Less then 10 min drive from town, but hiking in and finding a suitable place to make camp has the feeling of the wild, with the safety of having full cell service."

    5. Mills Norrie State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Staatsburg, NY
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 889-4646

    $17 - $102 / night

    "There are great hiking trails on the Hudson River right outside your campsite. Amenities are the great outdoors and an ancient bath house built during the New Deal in the 1930's."

    "Firewood wasn’t available at the camp, had to drive about a mile to grab some. Close to town so easy to grab needed items."

    6. Sylvan Lake Beach Park

    1 Review
    Stormville, NY
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 221-9889

    "Reminds me of lake camping that I grew up with. Hosts are very nice and helpful. This is more of a seasonal camping site. Do not follow your GPS directions. Get directions from the campground staff."

    7. Lake Waramaug State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    New Preston, CT
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 868-0220

    $17 - $50 / night

    "One of my favorite so far , went with family , to comply w covid and social distancing, the camp only rent your site and no one on your left or right or across ! Amazing !"

    "My family has been camping at Lake Waramaug for over 20 years. I can say most of what’s been said is true or partially so but whether it’s bad or good depends on your point of view."

    8. New York City North-Newburgh KOA

    14 Reviews
    Plattekill, NY
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 564-2836

    "They have the best staff and they are everywhere, if you need someone they are always around and super friendly also."

    "Location- 4 stars- close to NYC but kinda just in the woods and close to homes, not much around. Sites- 4 stars- a real mixed bag- the rv/trailer only section is really nice, wooded."

    9. Camp W Herrlich

    1 Review
    Holmes, NY
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 319-3084

    10. Ten Mile River Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    1 Review
    Gaylordsville, CT
    10 miles
    Website

    "While there are no rules about who can camp there, during thru-hiking season, consideration should be made for folks who rely on places like this during a long distance hike."

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Recent Reviews near Poughquag, NY

656 Reviews of 140 Poughquag Campgrounds


  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 10, 2025

    Allaben Primitive Campsites

    Pond spot

    Cool spot next to a pond. There are a few others that aren’t next to a pond, and therefore not as cool… but still pretty cool bc it’s free and you can walk up a little to a pond.

  • M
    Oct. 26, 2025

    North-South Lake Campground

    Beautiful grounds HORRIBLE STAFF

    I don’t normally write reviews especially a negative one. We had a very upsetting experience at North-South Lake. We drove over two hours to visit my husband’s childhood campground for the first time with our three kids(ages 5, 7, and 9). When we arrived at the entrance, we were asked if it was a day visit, and we said yes, we were only staying for the day. We paid the fee, received a map, and drove in. My husband was so excited to finally share this place and create memories with our children. Looking for a place to park, we thought we were lucky to find an empty campsite in one of the loops where he used to camp as a child.

    We parked the car hoping to enjoy the view of the lake, take a walk, and maybe make the kids a couple of s’mores before heading home.

     At around 2:15–2:30 p.m., the “SUPERVISOR” in the white Kia approached us in an extremely rude and nasty manner, speaking as if we were committing a serious crime and comparing our situation to“sleeping in someone else’s hotel room.” She asked us if we had a reservation; we said no. She said,“Someone else reserved this spot.” We were very apologetic, embarrassed, and immediately put our stuff in the car. I said they could have told us; we would have moved right away. I’m sorry. 

    She said,“They aren’t supposed to talk to you; that’s why they send me here.” She told us we had ten minutes to leave, waited there while we put our chair, blanket, and s’more cookies in the car, and refused our 9-year-old daughter access to the bathroom while we packed up our three things, and even followed us out of the loop to make sure we didn’t park elsewhere. My daughter came to us crying because the lady told her she couldn’t use the bathroom and had to get in the car. Well, she had an accident in the car right as we were pulling out. 

    We were mortified and apologetic. My husband even offered to leave the firewood we had just purchased for the next campers, but she was dismissive and harsh about that as well. 

    The following day, I called and asked to speak with a manager to explain how we were treated. The manager was just as unfriendly and miserable sounding as the supervisor. I was told they had been looking for us“for hours” and that it’s“common sense” not to park in a campsite. She actually said it’s considered trespassing. So, a friendly warning for first-time visitors: Apparently, if you don’t know that“day use” doesn’t mean“park in any empty campsite,” just for the day, you’re officially a trespassing criminal, at least according to the manager. 

    Reading the website now, I see that check-in for people with reservations is at 2 p.m., which was the time we were trying to make a small fire, so unless someone left their site and returned, it’s unclear how they could have been looking for us“for hours.” We were right there at 2pm. 

    The website also states: Day Use• Anyone who is not camping is a day-user. Day-use hours are from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Day-users are not allowed between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. 

    We were not camping but didn’t realize we couldn’t park in an empty campsite. I think“common sense” would be to inform DAY USE visitors at the ENTRANCE to use public parking, especially for families or first-time visitors who may not be camping experts. Bottom line: this was my husband’s childhood family spot. We just wanted to take a beautiful fall drive and have a special day with our kids. 

    We understand now that we needed to reserve the parking spot ahead of time, and it was an honest misunderstanding. I would have even offered to pay for the campers’ stay for their trouble. What we wish for is that the staff had approached us respectfully and explained the situation instead of treating us like criminals. Imagine being such a miserable person and working in such a BEAUTIFUL and peaceful place for families. 

    This was meant to be a special family day, honoring memories of my father-in-law and creating new ones with our children. Instead, it became stressful and humiliating. Sadly, this is what our children will remember about the day and about North South Lake

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Gunx Camping on a Horse Farm

    No Amenities but Great Location for the Gunks

    This campground is just mowed spots on a hillside in Kerhonkson. There are no facilities aside from some port-o-sans that the owners didn't recommend using. But the location is great for accessing the Shawamhunks. Given the lack of affordable RV campgrounds (and even the few expensive ones) in the area, this stands out.

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 24, 2025

    Austin Hawes Memorial Campground — American Legion State Forest

    Great State Forest Campground

    Austin Hawes (also known as American Legion State Forest/Campground) is a great little place in a beautiful part of the State. They have cabins if you want some of the creature comforts, as well as sites suitable for tents or campers. Have camped here before in tents and a pop up, it's right on the Farmington River, so we have gone tubing down the river, swimming and fishing as well. The bathrooms have showers and flush toilets, there are hiking trails in and near the campground, and stores not too far. Sites vary in size and privacy.

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Black Rock State Park Campground

    Nah

    If you want to feel like you are camping in the middle of a lawless low income housing project, this is the place for you. We camped next to a woman with 2 pit bulls, which was surprising, given the "no dogs allowed" rule, and were surrounded by people partying despite the "no alcohol" rule. Teens congregate in the bathroom so they could charge their devices but did not appreciate you being there to use the bathroom they clearly took over, and even though it's 2025, I still prefer no boyfriends hanging out in the women's bathroom. Call me whatever. Used to camp here years ago, clearly it has gone downhill. Park Ranger? What's that?

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Ten Mile River Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    Not a public campground!

    Ten Mile River Shelter and campsite is not a public campground. Sure, anyone can camp there, but it is designated for folks hiking the A.T., whether thru-hikers, section hikers, or whatever. While there are no rules about who can camp there, during thru-hiking season, consideration should be made for folks who rely on places like this during a long distance hike. It is at least a mile if not a mile and a half from approved parking (on the side of the road off the A.T.) to camp, either from the A.T. or a combo of the A.T. and a blue blaze trail (which is easier, imo). There are also no fires allowed on the CT A.T.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Osa Trail

    Gorgeous Views

    Had a great time here with my wife and 2 little kids and our dog.  One of the most beautiful sunrises we've ever seen!  Very secluded, though Alex is right down the driveway so didn't feel like the middle of nowhere.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Sage's Revine

    Not highest recommended

    There was a bunch of signs that said no parking so we parked at the entrance to the trailhead. The area itself is beautiful but I believe it is more for tent camping versus cars, overlanding vehicles and RVs.

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Mills Norrie State Park Campground

    Great staff but back-to-back campsite

    We stayed a coupe of days in Oct. This is a beautiful site to camp out. The staffs are friendly and very attentive.
    Bathroom and water pressure was ok. But one shower location for 50 campsites. Three small showers units and three toilet.
    I never stayed a state campsite where the sites are so close each other. If you like a “normal” distance to your neighbors, I'd not recommend this place.


Guide to Poughquag

Camping near Poughquag, New York, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are great trails nearby, especially at Clarence Fahnestock State Park. One visitor mentioned, "The NYS Parks has done a lot of work on the surrounding trails," making it perfect for all hiking levels.
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner, have ponds for fishing. A reviewer said, "The campground has a lot of activities and has kids of all ages galore," making it a great spot for family fishing trips.
  • Swimming: If you enjoy swimming, check out Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground. One camper noted, "The cleanliness of the facilities at the campsite is influenced by the volume of activity," so it’s a good idea to visit during quieter times.

What campers like:

  • Scenic views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. A visitor at Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park said, "I enjoy the beach/lakefront, option for platform sites, and regularly cleaned bathroom and shower facilities."
  • Family-friendly activities: Many campgrounds offer activities for kids. One family at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner shared, "This place is so much fun. My whole family loved the activities."
  • Quiet spots: Campers appreciate the peaceful areas. A reviewer at Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park mentioned, "I feel like we got lucky with our site. It had a nice wooded area behind us and felt more private."

What you should know:

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the right campground: Look for family-friendly spots like Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner, where one parent said, "My kids enjoyed themselves a lot, and that is what matters."
  • Plan activities: Make sure to check out the activities available. A reviewer at New York City North-Newburgh KOA mentioned, "They have a pond for fishing, basketball, a mini golf course, and a playground."
  • Pack for comfort: Bring items like tablecloths for picnic tables. A camper at Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park advised, "Their picnic tables also are disgusting, bring a table cloth!"

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Rondout Valley RV Campground said, "We were given a site that we were told we should be able to back in to. When we found it, there wasn't enough room to get in."
  • Look for amenities: Choose campgrounds with good facilities. A reviewer at New York City North-Newburgh KOA mentioned, "You can tell they maintain the campground and do their best to keep everything clean."
  • Be prepared for check-in: Some campgrounds can have long check-in times. A camper at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner noted, "It took 45-minutes to check-in."

Camping around Poughquag, New York, has something for everyone, whether you're in a tent or an RV. Just be sure to plan ahead and choose the right spot for your needs!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Poughquag, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, Poughquag, NY offers a wide range of camping options, with 140 campgrounds and RV parks near Poughquag, NY and 7 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Poughquag, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Poughquag, NY is Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 34 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Poughquag, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 free dispersed camping spots near Poughquag, NY.

What parks are near Poughquag, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Poughquag, NY that allow camping, notably Northfield Brook Lake and Hop Brook Lake.