Best Campgrounds near Hillsdale, NY

Please note Crane Pond Road from the lower parking lot to the pond itself is NOT maintained and often gets very muddy. 4WD is required, if you go back there without it your day is gonna suck. From experience - if your vehicle isn't lifted you may come out with a ding or two from rocks and other things jutting out of the ground. Not fit for an RV in any capacity. The parking lot at the end of Crane Pond Road is relatively small but can fit at least 6 vehicles. There is an outhouse near that lot and a foot bridge off to the right, leading to Pharaoh Mtn Trail. 

If you're staying to camp there are (9) sites only accessible by boat (I haven't found a map that numbers/letters them), except the one right by the parking lot. There is a trail leading to that one. My family and I have never used the other sites so I can only attest to the one which is freaking GREAT. There is a stone cliff near it that goes down about 12(?) feet and is great for fishing or jumping off of. There is also a stone area right by the water if you want to fish or just sunbathe. Stone fireplace on site. The view right there is beautiful and at night you can hear the loons (visible during the day as well).

This is a state campground with some remote sites. However it is a gateway to Pharaoh Lake Wilderness. Lots of hiking trails to many ponds and one lake most of which have lean tos and other sites which are free. People are pretty quiet and respectful as opposed to Rogers Rock which was getting completely out of hand. Generators and loud music at all hours. Only takes a few bozos to ruin the camping experience for those around them. Then there are the many jet skiers who disregard not only the wake laws but have no consideration for those trying to load and unload boats at the launch as they speed by. Anyway, I love Putnam Pond! Also very nice paddling pond and decent swimming!

This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side. The terrain eventually transitions into a low-lying, swampy area, likely due to recent rainfall over the past week.

About 500 feet down the right-hand trail, there is a smaller path branching off to the left. This leads to a previously used campsite, approximately 200 feet from the main trail. The site includes a stone fire ring, indicating prior use.

Given that camping is permitted anywhere in the woods as long as it’s at least 150 feet off the trail, the surrounding area offers an abundance of potential camping spots.

I stayed at Alpine Lake RV Resort for three nights and had an absolutely fantastic experience. The entire resort is beautiful and well-maintained, with peaceful surroundings and stunning natural scenery. The lake views are especially breathtaking — perfect for early morning coffee or a sunset stroll.

The RV sites were spacious and clean, with full hookups and easy access. Everything was well organized, and I appreciated the quiet atmosphere and friendly neighbors. The staff was incredibly helpful and welcoming from the moment I arrived, making check-in a breeze and offering tips on things to do in the area.

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. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an active getaway, this place has something for everyone.

I’ll definitely be returning and would recommend Alpine Lake RV Resort to anyone looking for a memorable outdoor escape.