Campgrounds near Schaghticoke, New York offer diverse options across seasons and terrains. Located in Rensselaer County at the junction of the Hoosic and Hudson Rivers, this area serves as a gateway to both the Adirondacks and Green Mountains. Most campgrounds operate from May through mid-October, with many sites situated along waterways that provide recreational opportunities during warmer months.
What to do
Waterfront activities: At Alpine Lake RV Resort, campers can enjoy lake-based recreation throughout the season. "Bring your boats and SUP boards for lots of fun! Hikers and water enthusiasts will live this place! Lots to explore," notes one visitor. The waterfront sites are particularly popular during summer months.
Hiking trails: Jamaica State Park Campground offers scenic hiking options within an hour's drive of Schaghticoke. "We hiked the west river trail (which leads right out of the campground) to Hamilton falls which is a gravel closed road that follows the west river upstream 2 miles to Hamilton falls trail which then leads up hill for another mile to the falls," reports one camper who visited in May.
Family recreation: Many campgrounds offer structured activities throughout the week. "They have movies, dances and even some kayaking, padding, etc. They have these dinos scattered throughout the park and also a few pools," writes a visitor to Alpine Lake RV Resort. Most scheduled activities run during peak summer season between late June and early September.
What campers like
River access: Arrowhead Marina & RV Park earns praise for its riverside location. "Well maintained, located on the Mohawk River. Shady, grassy areas. Boat launch and pier," writes one reviewer. The park provides direct water access for both boating and fishing.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. "The campground was clean. Cory down the road was cool to swim in, lots of shops and outlets to go to," notes a reviewer about Dorset RV Park. Bathroom cleaning schedules vary by campground, with most facilities cleaned at least once daily.
Entertainment options: Scheduled activities enhance stays at many parks. "They have activities like bonfires, bingo, pot luck dinners, and complementary donuts & coffee every Sunday morning," reports a camper about Dorset RV Park. Most entertainment programs operate weekends during peak season, with expanded schedules during holiday periods.
What you should know
Cell service and WiFi: Connectivity varies significantly by location and carrier. At Dorset RV Park, one camper noted: "WiFi exists, but 100% unreliable. Not just slow, often was entirely offline or connected without Internet. When it did work, it was actually halfway decent."
Seasonal considerations: Most camping facilities near Schaghticoke operate from May through October. "Vermont Jamaica State Park is open from May 12 to Columbus Day weekend," notes the park information. Fall foliage season (late September to mid-October) typically requires advance bookings as sites fill quickly.
Site selection: Terrain varies across campgrounds, affecting the camping experience. "Our site was level but some definitely were not," reports a camper about Dorset RV Park. Many parks offer site photos online, which can help RVers select appropriate spots for their equipment.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lake George Escape Campground features multiple play areas. "This is a total family playground and if that is what you are looking for, this is your place! There are tons of activities, lots of families and 'stuff' going on all the time," notes one visitor. Most playgrounds are centrally located near bathroom facilities.
Water recreation: Multiple swimming options exist throughout the region. "They had a waterslide, peddle carts, kayaks and boats for rent, dancing, and teen specific activities too," notes a Lake George Escape visitor. Most water facilities operate from late June through Labor Day, depending on weather conditions.
Pet considerations: Policies differ significantly between parks. "Ledgeview Village RV Park does not allow pets," states their rules, while other parks like Jamaica State Park welcome pets with standard leash requirements. Always verify current pet policies when booking.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV campers should be prepared for varied terrain. "For the $ they could do more for their facilities," notes one RVer who stayed at Jamaica State Park. Many visitors recommend bringing leveling blocks, particularly at older campgrounds with less developed sites.
Navigational challenges: Some parks have tight access roads requiring careful driving. At Lake George RV Park, "The roads and campsites are gravel and a little tight to get around because of all the trees but we were able to manage in our 45' motorhome," reports one visitor. Most parks provide site maps online that can help with planning arrival routes.
Reservation timing: Advance planning is essential during peak periods. "We would return here due to the proximity to Lake George and Saratoga, but we would choose a totally different type of site," notes an RVer at Alpine Lake RV Resort. Most RV parks near Schaghticoke allow reservations 6-12 months in advance.
