In the Hudson Valley region, Staatsburg offers convenient access to several glamping destinations with varying levels of accommodation near the Hudson River. Most glamping sites operate seasonally from April through October, with several closing after November 1st due to weather conditions. Winter camping options are limited to specialized year-round facilities with adequate heating systems.
What to do
Water activities at Lake Taghkanic: The state park features multiple swimming areas including a deep section with floating dock. "The swim area is marginal- best for little ones," notes one camper at Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground. For water sports enthusiasts, "The lake is great for kayaking, paddle boarding, canoes and for fishing. Bring your own gear but kayak and canoe rentals are available."
Creek exploration with children: Families visiting Thousand Trails Rondout Valley often enjoy the natural water features. "The creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish," reports one visitor. This activity provides easy nature interaction for all ages during warmer months.
Hiking opportunities: Many glamping sites connect to local trail systems. According to a visitor at Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park, "There are plenty of hiking trails nearby and of course, trails to Bash Bish Falls which is beautiful." The park offers "a very short .65 miles hiking trail behind the campground and a cool big rock to climb on near the bathrooms."
What campers like
Kid-friendly water facilities: Parents appreciate the specialized water areas for different age groups at Jellystone Park Gardiner. One visitor noted, "Nice pool that is shallow so you can relax and let the little ones go in the water park section alone or they have a 3 ft pool also." These facilities provide safe recreation options for families with children of varying swimming abilities.
Creekside camping sites: Many campers prefer water-adjacent sites for their natural ambiance. A visitor at Thousand Trails Rondout Valley described their experience: "We had one and a babbling brook was 30 feet behind us. Great spot for morning coffee." These natural water features enhance the camping experience without requiring visitors to leave their immediate site.
Tent platforms at state parks: For those seeking traditional camping with increased comfort, certain parks offer elevated solutions. At Taconic State Park, "tent sites are available with very large platforms." Another camper noted, "Each of the sites had a large platform (enough room for one very large tent or 2-3 smaller tents), a fire pit, and picnic table."
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Glamping accommodations offer different levels of seclusion. One camper at Lake Waramaug State Park Campground noted, "What it does have are clean, large sites that are partially wooded and not out in the open." However, they cautioned, "Wouldn't even TRY to stay here on a weekend unless you like seeing/hearing your neighbors' every move as there is zero privacy."
Bathroom facilities fluctuate seasonally: Campground bathroom quality can be inconsistent. At Taconic State Park, campers report, "Bathroom facilities are adequate." However, at Jellystone Park, one visitor observed, "Very few for the number of sites and people it covers. They need to add more bathrooms. They rarely cleaned the bathroom in all the 6 days that I stayed."
Weekend crowds impact experience: Most glamping sites near Staatsburg become significantly busier on weekends. A Lake Waramaug visitor advised, "I would never camp here on a weekend.... it is a party place then." Similarly, at Jellystone Park, a camper noted, "It can end up being as crowded as an amusement park depending on when you go."
Tips for camping with families
Schedule-conscious planning: Weekdays offer quieter experiences at most sites. "If you go during the week the place is a ghost town," reports one Lake Waramaug camper. This timing strategy helps families avoid the busier weekend periods when activities and facilities may be overcrowded.
Age-appropriate activities: Different glamping locations cater to specific age groups. At Jellystone Park Gardiner, "This campground is great for kids. It has a event just about every weekend with kid activity." However, one parent noted, "I was worried my 12 year old would be too old for it but he enjoyed making friends there."
Pet documentation requirements: Families traveling with dogs should prepare proper documentation. At Taconic State Park, "If you are traveling with a dog, be sure to bring proof of rabies— they ask." This requirement helps maintain safety standards at many campgrounds in the region.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RVers should research specific sites before booking. At Brookside Campground, one visitor mentioned, "During the heavy rains water flowed down the roads ways due to the clay based soil and looked like it pooled up in places near the tent areas." Understanding terrain characteristics helps avoid potential flooding or access issues.
Hookup considerations: Full-service sites offer varying amenities. At Thousand Trails Rondout Valley, campers note the availability of "full hookups, tents and cabins to rent." However, at some campgrounds, guests discovered challenges: "the sewer connection in 372 ran uphill for me, but my pipe sits very low."
Transportation rentals: Some locations offer on-site vehicle rentals, though quality and value vary. At Jellystone Park, one visitor advised, "Renting a golf cart is prob not the best option $175 for 2 days and it only goes 5mph I can walk faster than that." These rentals may not be necessary at smaller campgrounds where walking distances are manageable.
