The Catskill region near Kinderhook offers diverse camping options across varied terrain ranging from wooded hills to open meadows. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F with cooler nights even in peak season. Many campgrounds in this area border state forests with access to hiking trails connecting to larger networks throughout the Berkshire and Taconic mountain ranges.
What to do
Trail exploration from camp: Taconic State Park connects directly to numerous hiking trails including routes to Bash Bish Falls. "Great campground, friendly staff, great trails around it. Would come back," notes a visitor to Taconic State Park.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated swimming areas with lifeguards during summer months. At Lake Taghkanic, "They have both platform and dirt tent sites, all sites come equipped with fire pits. The campground has a lake with boat rentals. Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low."
Local wildlife watching: The regional forests support diverse wildlife including frogs, toads, and interesting insects. "The taconic mountains offer some great flora and fauna. We had several species of frogs and toads wandering about in the evening, giant millipedes were plenty, and even found a newt on our hike," reports one camper at Taconic State Park.
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Several campgrounds feature elevated wooden platforms that keep tents dry during wet weather. "The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection! The lake is gorgeous and there are plenty of nearby hikes for exploring," notes a visitor to Lake Taghkanic State Park.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom and shower facilities. "Bathrooms on site as well as showers. Some sites are close together, but there are a few a little more secluded and set back," mentions a camper at Lake Taghkanic State Park.
Water features: Ponds and lakes at several campgrounds include fountains that create pleasant ambient sound. At Spacious Skies Woodland Hills, "The pond has a fountain which sounds like a small waterfall at night, and wildflowers were in bloom."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campground layouts vary significantly with some sites offering much more privacy than others. "A lot of complaints that up front the sites were too close together and this was true, but more towards the back was more spacious and private sites," notes a visitor to Taconic State Park.
Weekend crowds: Due to proximity to NYC, many campgrounds fill quickly on weekends. "This was a truly great campground, but its proximity to NYC draws large crowds on weekends," warns a camper at Taconic State Park.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds in the Kinderhook area operate from May through mid-October. October Mountain State Forest operates "mid May to mid October" while Lone Oak Campsites runs "April 15 to October 15."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds organize regular events specifically for children. "Tons of kids activities going on all day. There's a full bar with adult only dancing upstairs in the lounge Saturday nights, and a DJ playing dance music for the younger crowd downstairs," reports a visitor to Lone Oak Campsites.
Swimming areas: Dedicated child swimming zones exist at several locations. At Taconic State Park, "There was a very large open grassy field for play/sports, a playground and life guarded portion of the lake for swimming."
Budget considerations: Campsite costs vary significantly based on amenities and location. At October Mountain State Forest, a camper noted, "Fees are $15 residents and $20 non residents plus processing fees."
Tips from RVers
Hook-up verification: Double-check electrical requirements before booking as they vary between sites. One camper at Lone Oak Campsites advises, "Be careful on the map for what site has what amenities, and make sure to double check power requirements because it's not labeled on the sites and it varies."
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring leveling blocks. At Spacious Skies Woodland Hills, "Terrain is uneven. Hit and miss on how flat or level sites are."
Dump station access: For extended stays, confirm sanitary facilities. "There is no sewer, but they have a dump-station and on-site Honeywagon truck that you can schedule," notes a visitor to Treetopia Campground.
