The Hudson Valley region surrounding Poughquag offers diverse camping options within 30-45 minutes of town. Elevation changes from 500 to 1,500 feet create varied microclimates, with higher campgrounds experiencing cooler temperatures even in summer months. Fall camping sees temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night, requiring appropriate gear for overnight stays.
What to do
Fishing at multiple ponds: Rudd Pond at Taconic State Park has excellent largemouth bass fishing. "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," notes one visitor to Rudd Pond Area — Taconic State Park.
Historic sites within 30 minutes: The Hudson Valley region contains numerous historical landmarks. "FDR home and library...a must to see. Quaint towns nearby," writes a camper who stayed at Interlake RV Park & Campground. The area also offers Revolutionary War-era sites and preserved mansions.
Hiking diverse trail networks: Access to the Appalachian Trail and numerous connecting paths provides day hiking options. A visitor to Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground observed, "We didn't take the Perkins Memorial Tower trail, but heard it was amazing. Next Time!!!" The park features trails rated from easy to challenging, with accessible options for all mobility levels.
What campers like
Platform tent sites for weather protection: Many campgrounds feature raised platforms that keep tents dry. "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 (20-30 minutes away) and the Walkway over the Hudson," reports a camper at Interlake RV Park.
Swimming in clean lakes: Natural swimming areas with lifeguards operate during summer months. A visitor to Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground shared, "Quiet, clean enough and well worth the price. Showers are hot and there's great water pressure. The cleanliness of the bathrooms depends on how busy the campground is."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dawn and dusk provide chances to see deer and other animals. "The best part was at dusk when the animals came out!" mentions a camper at Black Bear RV Park. Early morning hours typically offer the best wildlife viewing, especially near water sources.
What you should know
Crowding varies significantly by season: Weekends during peak leaf-peeping season (October) see maximum occupancy. "Weekends - this park is FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!" advises a visitor to Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground.
Site privacy differences: Campsite layout and vegetation screening vary widely between parks and within the same park. "All sites were so different. There was a storm the night before our arrival date, all campers were evacuated and they did a fantastic job clearing all the debris and downed trees before our arrival," notes a camper at Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground.
Bears are present: Proper food storage is essential in the Hudson Valley region. "Welcome to Bear Mountain" grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He is in his ranger hut, checking in the late evening arrivals to the campground," recalls a visitor to Beaver Pond Campground, who was warned about bear activity in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and structured activities: Family-oriented campgrounds offer organized events. "This is a large family campground with tons of stuff to do, I was pleasantly surprised by how quiet it was," shares a visitor to Thousand Trails Rondout Valley who rated their experience highly.
Beach access for children: Several parks maintain swimming areas with amenities. "Great beach, 5 minute drive from campground. Clean facilities, with a rec room for rainy days. A camp store with all the supplies you might have forgotten," writes a Lake Taghkanic State Park visitor who found the setup ideal for family car camping.
Consider accessibility needs: Some campgrounds offer more child-friendly terrain than others. "The campground has a lake with boat rentals. Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low," reports a visitor who found Lake Taghkanic well-suited for family activities.
Tips from RVers
Winter RV camping limitations: Most state parks close to RVs by mid-October, while private campgrounds may remain open. "We are returning to the south after spending a couple months of fall in New England. We have short driving days and we try stop after every couple hundred miles for one night at a time, just to sleep, shower and eat. This was our first stop and primarily chosen because it was one of the few places along our route that was open for RVs in the off season," notes a winter visitor to Black Bear RV Park.
Site leveling considerations: Pay attention to campsite grade when selecting RV spots. "Our site was even and easy to level on. Lots of locals and summer residents," mentions a Thousand Trails Rondout Valley camper describing their RV site experience.
Hookup availability varies: Full-service RV sites cost more but provide consistent amenities. "Great location and nice, full hook-up sites. Back-in and pull through sites and can accommodate large rigs. A little expensive but everything is included," reports a satisfied RV camper at Black Bear RV Park.
