Best Campgrounds near Schenectady, NY

Camping near Schenectady, New York, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

• Hiking: The Catskills are nearby, providing great trails for all skill levels. One camper mentioned, “This is a hiking park... Kaaterskill Falls is an exception - short, easy trail, but the parking fills up quickly.”
• Swimming: Many campgrounds have access to lakes or streams. A reviewer noted, “There are two nice lakes with beaches,” making it a perfect spot for a refreshing dip.
• Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper shared, “There are bears that visit the campground... they showed us a picture - it was a large black bear.”

What campers like:

• Scenic Views: Campers appreciate the beautiful surroundings. A review stated, “The Catskills are very scenic & we enjoyed our time there!”
• Privacy: Many sites are well-spaced, allowing for a more secluded experience. One camper remarked, “Each of the campsites... has a lot of foliage around it, creating privacy between you and the site next to you.”
• Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms and showers are a big plus. A reviewer mentioned, “The bathrooms/showers are state park clean - which means not very,” but others found them acceptable.

What you should know:

• Limited Cell Service: Be prepared to unplug. One camper noted, “There is NO cell service & just forget about WiFi. You are unplugged.”
• Bear Activity: Keep food secured to avoid attracting bears. A camper warned, “There’s a lot of bear activity here, so constantly cleaning up your food is very important.”
• Reservations Recommended: Popular sites can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A reviewer advised, “It can get a little busy on the weekends, so worth reserving in advance.”

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids. One camper said, “There is a FULL schedule of themed activities for the kiddos, weekly.”
• Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys. A family shared, “The campground has some great hiking trails and a cozy vibe in a beautiful part of NY.”
• Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep everyone happy. A reviewer mentioned, “The store was fairly well stocked with things you might’ve forgot to pack.”

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Some sites may not accommodate larger RVs. A camper noted, “Our site was fine and large enough to accommodate our RV and tow car but some campsites were pretty small.”
• Know Your Hookups: Make sure to check for electric and water hookups. One reviewer stated, “The sites are spacious and well spaced out,” which is great for RV camping.
• Be Prepared for Fees: Some campgrounds have additional charges. A camper shared, “Had to pay $100 for early arrival!!!” so be aware of the campground policies.

Camping around Schenectady, NY, has something for everyone, from nature lovers to families looking for fun. With a little planning, you can enjoy a great outdoor experience!