Camping options around South Salem, New York include a range of experiences from rustic state parks to full-service RV facilities. The region sits at the edge of the Hudson Valley, featuring rolling hills and mixed hardwood forests that provide distinct seasonal camping environments. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-40°F, while summer camping season brings 70-90°F temperatures with moderate humidity.
What to do
Swimming at lakes: Kettletown State Park Campground offers a swimming area, though conditions can vary seasonally. "The 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," notes Shelly B.
Hiking on trails: The region has extensive trail networks with varied difficulty levels. "There are a lot of nice hikes directly from the campground. The Pelton Pond hike loop is 1.5 miles and easily accessible from sites on the west side," reports Jess M. from Beaver Pond Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Several parks provide fishing access for various species. A camper at Taconic State Park mentioned, "There is plenty of fishing access from shore and you can rent a boat for the whole day to fish on the water. I caught 2 decent-sized largemouth bass!"
What campers like
Platform campsites: Rudd Pond Area — Taconic State Park features elevated tent platforms that prove useful in wet weather. "Almost all of the sites have platforms to pitch your tent on. There's space near the platform that is flat-ish with a picnic table and a fire pit," explains Katherine P.
Off-season quietness: Campgrounds are significantly less crowded outside peak summer months. "Weekends - this park is FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!" advises a Fahnestock State Park visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Many campsites offer nature observation opportunities. At Black Bear RV Park, one camper noted, "The best part was at dusk when the animals came out!" while another reviewer at Beaver Pond mentioned seeing deer "running everywhere" through the campground.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park fills quickly during peak season. "Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out," advises one camper. Another noted, "Weekends - this park is FULL!"
Site variation: Campsite quality varies significantly even within the same campground. "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," reports an impressed visitor at Fahnestock.
Bathroom conditions: Facility maintenance varies by park and season. At Kettletown, a camper observed, "The bathrooms are always kept clean and stocked," while another noted more critically, "CT should really invest in better quality bath houses."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Interlake RV Park & Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "With that you get free wi-fi, a heated pool, a lake for fishing and boating, a game room and snack bar, movies, other sports, and the security of a gated entrance," reports Jean C.
Educational opportunities: The region offers historical sites suitable for family visits. "The campsite is close to FDR home and library...a must to see. Quaint towns nearby," suggests a camper who found the location ideal for educational day trips.
Space for children: Some campgrounds are particularly suited for families with active kids. "The reason why this place is perfect for kids? It has a huge land of campsite that the kids can run around until their energy is out for the night!" shares Jennifer H. about Kettletown State Park.
Tips from RVers
Winter considerations: Year-round RV campgrounds near South Salem have specific winter limitations. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, a visitor experienced challenges with utilities during colder months: "Unfortunately at this site, the heated water pipe was broken so we had no water for the night."
City access from RV parks: Several RV campgrounds near South Salem provide convenient access to urban areas. "This is a prime location for visiting the city or heading down the shore. The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8 blocks away," explains Joe R. about Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Site selection strategies: When booking RV sites, consider your specific needs. "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor will be within inches of your rig," advises Keith and Tia S., providing practical advice for choosing sites at crowded rv campgrounds near South Salem.
