Best Camping near Thiells, NY

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Thiells, NY has a lot to offer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Thiells is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Thiells. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near Thiells, NY (122)

    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park

    1. Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park

    40 Reviews
    148 Photos
    485 Saves
    Pomona, New York

    Beaver Pond offers campsites, some with a raised platform, for up to two tents and six persons per site; select sites can accommodate a trailer or RV up to 30 ft. long. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring with flip top grill, and there are shared full-service bathrooms centrally located. Located in Harriman State Park and adjacent to Lake Welch, the campground offers convenient access to swimming beaches, hiking trails, and neighboring state park facilities. Visitors can experience the natural beauty of the Lower Hudson Valley, while having the ease of access to local shops, historic sites, and countless seasonal events.

    *Please be advised that there are no electrical hook ups for trailers at this campground.

    Alcohol is not permitted at Beaver Pond Campgrounds.

    No Pets Permitted.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $15 - $22 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Clarence Fahnestock State Park — Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Clarence Fahnestock State Park — Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Clarence Fahnestock State Park — Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Clarence Fahnestock State Park — Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Clarence Fahnestock State Park — Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Clarence Fahnestock State Park — Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park

    2. Clarence Fahnestock State Park — Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park

    34 Reviews
    121 Photos
    417 Saves
    Fishkill, New York

    This scenic campground, formed along the park's natural rock ridges, provides alcoves of privacy and tranquility for campers. Each of the 80 campsites has a picnic table and fire ring. Additionally there is an area for RV camping. Although there are no hookups available or dump station, restroom and shower facilities are centrally located to all RV and tent sites. Individuals, as well as larger camping groups, are welcome. The campground's nature center houses environmental displays and a variety of touch boxes. On weekends, park staff organizes hikes and craft activities. Movies are shown on Saturday evenings for the enjoyment of all campers.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Croton Point Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Croton Point Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Croton Point Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Croton Point Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Croton Point Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Croton Point Park

    3. Croton Point Park

    9 Reviews
    26 Photos
    284 Saves
    Croton-on-Hudson, New York

    Croton Point Park is a 508-acre park situated on a peninsula on the east shore of the Hudson River. This park offers year-round events and activities and has facilities for camping, hiking and swimming. The park, rich in natural and human history, is also the site of historic wine cellars that are thought of be the oldest in New York State and the Croton Point Nature Center. The oldest oyster shell middens on the North Atlantic Coast uncovered by archeologists on Croton Point confirm that the peninsula was inhabited by Native Americans as early as 7,000 years ago. Croton is in fact named for the Indian sachem, Kenoten, which means "wild wind.” In the 17th century, Indians of the Kitchawank tribe on the Wappinger Confederacy occupied a large fortified village on the high flat at the neck of Croton Point, which they called Navish. This was one of the most ancient and formidable Indian fortresses south of the Hudson Highlands.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents

    $30 - $60 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park

    4. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park

    6 Reviews
    12 Photos
    127 Saves
    Pomona, New York

    The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center is an ideal destination for anyone looking for hiking, paddling, and camping opportunities in the heart of Harriman State Park at Breakneck Pond. Harriman State Park, New York’s second largest park, is located 30 miles from Manhattan and accessible by public transportation.

    The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center is open to the public, and is a great location for scouting, school, faith-based, and youth groups as well as family reunions and corporate outings.

    The Center offers common space for outdoor programs, waterfront access to 64-acre Breakneck Pond, a dining hall, and group meeting space. Accommodations include group and family cabins, tent platforms, and three-sided shelters, offering a range of overnight experiences.

    The public can also enjoy The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center through an AMC adult, family, or teen program. Membership is not required to join an AMC program. AMC members receive discounts on lodging and programs. Click here for a complete listing of upcoming programs for adults and teens.

    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
    • Market
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner

    5. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner

    23 Reviews
    50 Photos
    97 Saves
    Gardiner, New York

    Overlooking the winding Wallkill River, Yogi Bear Campground NY is set on 100 rolling acres and boasts a majestic view of the Shawangunk Ridge. When our campers aren’t busy swimming and splashing at Yogi Bear’s Water Zone & Splash Pad or bouncing high on our jumping pillow, they can enjoy endless outdoor activities and amenities that the whole family will enjoy. All of our cabins and campsites take full advantage of the unparalleled setting and beautiful scenery that surrounds our Camp-Resort. Just a short drive from hiking at Minnewaska State Park and local history in New Paltz, Jellystone Park™ offers a breathtaking camping experience for everyone.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Sebago Cabin Camp — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sebago Cabin Camp — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sebago Cabin Camp — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sebago Cabin Camp — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sebago Cabin Camp — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sebago Cabin Camp — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mahlon Dickerson Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Mahlon Dickerson Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Mahlon Dickerson Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Mahlon Dickerson Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Mahlon Dickerson Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Mahlon Dickerson Reservation

    7. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation

    18 Reviews
    42 Photos
    300 Saves
    Jefferson, New Jersey

    This is the largest park in the Morris County Park System, encompassing 3,494 acres of beautiful near-wilderness and recreational areas. The Reservation is the park to visit with over 24.5 miles of multi-use trails for novice and experienced skill levels. For off-road bicyclists, discover the challenge and adventure of the blazed biking trails. Horseback riding, seasonal camping, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and softball are recreational activities at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. Digital trail maps are available online.

    One of the outstanding features of the Reservation is the magnificent view from atop Headley Overlook, a 1,280 foot elevation, one of the highest points in Morris County. The Saffin Pond area is a most scenic location to enjoy a day of fishing. The Saffin Rock Rill area offers space for educational programs.

    Some of the unique activities at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation include a radio-controlled car track, and model boat racing. All are operated by nonprofit groups comprised of interested residents.

    Mahlon Dickerson Reservation (MDR) is a 3,590+ acre park with miles of trails and a Recreational Campground. MDR is a quiet place to enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, birdwatching and more. There are two (2) camping areas within the park. One (1) area accommodates Recreational Vehicle (RV) campers who travel with Motorhomes (Class A/B/C), Trailers/Fifth Wheels and Pop-up Campers. The second area is for Tent and Adirondack Shelter (Shelter) campers.

    This campground is designated for recreational camping only.

    This seasonal site is intended for short-term stays and does not allow for monthly or long-term reservations.

    RV Sites - Reservations area allowed for up to fourteen (14) consecutive nights and cannot exceed 14 reserved nights in a 30 day period. Tent and Shelter Sites - Reservations are allowed for up to two (2) consecutive nights, three (3) consecutive nights on a Holiday weekend and cannot exceed two (2) reserved nights , three (3) on a Holiday weekend in a 7 day period.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Ward Pound Ridge Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Ward Pound Ridge Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Ward Pound Ridge Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Ward Pound Ridge Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Ward Pound Ridge Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Ward Pound Ridge Reservation

    8. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation

    9 Reviews
    54 Photos
    170 Saves
    Cross River, New York

    The 4,315-acre park makes Ward Pound Ridge Reservation the county’s largest park. With its varied terrain and landscapes and miles of wooded trails, the park provides a variety of activities in all seasons. There are areas for picnicking, lean-to camping, fishing and cross-country skiing.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents

    $45 - $55 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from High Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from High Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from High Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from High Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from High Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from High Point State Park Campground

    9. High Point State Park Campground

    23 Reviews
    138 Photos
    136 Saves
    Matamoras, Pennsylvania

    High Point Camp Campsites: 50 tent sites (no trailers) along Sawmill Lake with fire rings and picnic tables. Flush toilets are within walking distance. Open April 1 through October 31. Fee: NJ Resident $20 per night; Non Resident $25 per night. Group campsites: Two group campsites with drinking water and pit toilets. Each campsite accommodates up to 25 people. Open year round. During the winter months visitors must bring in their own water or obtain it at the park office. Fee: NJ Resident $50 per night; Non Resident $100 per night. Cabins: Two cabins each with furnished living room with a woodstove; three bedrooms -one room with double bed, two rooms with twin beds; kitchen with hot and cold running water, electric stove, refrigerator; bathroom with shower, toilet, and sink. Electricity. Cabins are located on eastern shore of Steenykill Lake. Each accommodates six people. With prior permission from the superintendent, two additional people may be accommodated. Cabins are open from May 15 to October 15. Fee: NJ Resident $75 per night; 525 per week; Non Resident $85 per night; $595 per week. Group cabin: Living room with woodstove, full kitchen, two bunkrooms with double bunks, bathrooms, showers. Accommodates up to 28 people. Open May 15 to October 15. Fee: NJ Resident $175 per night; Two-night minimum; Non Resident $185 per night; Two-night minimum.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $5 - $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from New York City North-Newburgh KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from New York City North-Newburgh KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from New York City North-Newburgh KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from New York City North-Newburgh KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from New York City North-Newburgh KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from New York City North-Newburgh KOA
Showing results 1-10 of 122 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Thiells

Recent Reviews in Thiells

587 Reviews of 122 Thiells Campgrounds


  • Dan G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Lake Camping Resort
    Oct. 30, 2024

    Panther Lake Camping Resort

    Too expensive! Water stinks!

    Nice staff but water smells horrible! The staff know about the water smell and told me there’s a lot of iron in the ground. I was charged $105/night for a basic back-in pad. When I consider that plus “trailer park” feel of all the permanent patrons with the clutter and crap everywhere- not worth it!!! The CG needs some work.

  • Oak T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Stokes State Forest
    Oct. 27, 2024

    Stokes State Forest

    Always stoked for Stokes!

    Stokes is my go-to state park for unplugging and enjoying time with my family. We brought our son (23 months at time of visit) on his first camping trip this past September. He loved every minute of it.

    Site T07 in Lake Ocquittunk is gorgeous and one of the few relatively secluded sites in the campground. You need to carry your gear down a narrow, rocky path that's a little steep near the road, but it's manageable. There's also a graded path into the site adjacent to a neighboring site, but you should check with those campers if they are ok with you cutting through to use it. (We opted not to disturb our neighbors and take the slope.)

    I thought I would be able to launch my kayak from site 7 since it's waterfront, but there are a lot of huge rocks in the water that prevent you from getting out into the lake. We had to find a different launch spot. That was probably the biggest disappointment for us.

    Still, I love site 7 and it's absolutely worth the privacy and the views every morning.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Croton Point Park
    Oct. 18, 2024

    Croton Point Park

    Not too much to offer

    General: A county park with a mix of w/e (6 sites) and FHU sites plus about a dozen tent sites near a capped dump! There is a lodge and cabins close to the end of the point, but they appeared to be part of a group camp experience. They all appeared to be closed for the season (or because no one was renting at the time; they reminded me of places I used to take youth groups for weekend camps). The reservation process is a bit wonky. You need to call (no online reservations) and then wait for an e-mail, but the e-mail does not tell you your assigned site; you have to wait until you check in to find out your site.

    Site Quality: We had a loosely defined gravel pad that was level. All sites appeared level. The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together. No one was in the tent sites, but they did have new picnic tables.

    Activities/Amenities: Other than a playground and a basketball court, there did not seem to be any activities to partake in. There used to be a pool but from the looks of it, it hasn’t been in use for many years. There are walking paths outside of the campground that are located within the park, but we did not have time to explore them. 

    Bath/Shower house: Clean but a bit dated. No shelves or hooks for toiletries. I was surprised the door was left open all night long. There was a sign warning that the toilets were slow flushing, but I think this may have been fixed because the flush was so powerful that the water splashed over the top of the seat! 

    Because it was on a point on the Hudson, I had hoped for views from the campground but there were too many trees to see the water. I was perplexed by the signs throughout saying no trespassing/fishing prohibited. I get the no fishing part but the trespassing? When we checked in, we had to write down our credit card number on a slip of paper before we were given a key that opened the gate to the campground. When we checked out, we asked for the paper or to watch it get shredded but were told they had to keep it on file which concerned us.

  • Jake R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Campgaw Mountain Reservation
    Oct. 15, 2024

    Campgaw Mountain Reservation

    Busy but Lonely

    Campgaw doesn’t seem to offer much in terms of a camping experience. The sites themselves are fairly close to the road and there are super popular hiking trails that run right through all the camps. If you like being woken up by folks walking their dog at 7 AM, this is the spot for you.

    However, once the sun goes down, the campsite becomes a ghost town (except for the odd sheriff driving down the road). We went on a holiday weekend, and we were the only campsite that was occupied, so that is absolutely a plus. There was also plenty to do during the day, like joining the hikers on those trails, disc golf, and sitting by the water.

    All-in-all, it is not a terrible site, especially considering the cheap price.

  • Jared W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Osa Trail
    Sep. 29, 2024

    Osa Trail

    Great family campsite!

    We had a great time staying here. It's a very beautiful campsite. There's lots of great hiking and activities in the area.

  • Jacob D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park
    Sep. 19, 2024

    Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park

    Very nice and relaxed

    Perfect place to get away and be in the calm nature. Only sound I’ve heard is the birds in the trees. Very open area with many sites with bear lockers, picnic tables and fire pits. We called ahead yesterday and they said it’s walk-in, so we will go register now because we came in late. Only $20 for out of state!! That’s the cheapest I’ve seen across all New England lol

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettletown State Park Campground
    Sep. 10, 2024

    Kettletown State Park Campground

    Great location, but not a good experience

    Camping Review:

    This campsite is beautifully located in the woods, offering a peaceful and serene environment. There are no busy roads nearby, which ensures a quiet setting during the day.

    However, there are several downsides to consider. The camping spots are uneven, making it challenging to set up tents or campers. Additionally, swimming at the nearby beach is restricted to residents of the village, so visitors are not allowed to swim there.

    During our stay, there were multiple large groups, including a Christian group that preached (screamingly) and played loud music until midnight, despite the designated quiet hours. Unfortunately, the management did nothing to enforce the rules, which was disruptive.

    Another significant issue was the state of the sanitary facilities. They were extremely dirty, with feces present in various places. It took a long time before anything was cleaned, which obviously kept us from using the facilities.

    Overall, while the location is beautiful, the poor management, noise issues, and dirty sanitary facilities seriously detract from the experience.

  • Wailym C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Kittatinny Canoes River Beach Campsites
    Sep. 8, 2024

    Kittatinny Canoes River Beach Campsites

    River Access made easy

    The perks of this campground is the easy river access.  Besides Dingmans camp nearby or others on the NJ side of River, this is the only riverside campground before reaching NY.  The river access alone makes it worth a visit if you plan on kayaking a long stretch and need a home base, like we did. Friendly and attentive staff, clean bathrooms, full camp store, swimming allowed at your own risk.  They offer kayak tours with shuttle service. Small campground stretches up river side with several site options. The sites are very very small and close together.  The lower river front sites offer the best views for tent campers.  The upper RV/camper sites near entrance have some water views but most are obstructed by trees and sit high above river.  You cannot access river from here but it’s an easy short walk down to river access area.  The rest of campground is very cozy with a few sites near a small creek.  It was very quiet during the week, hardly anyone there.  We enjoyed the river almost to ourselves.   The weekends get very busy as most come to swim and bbq. Overall still a very nice spot for a weekend. Our reason for 3 star rating is the size of camp sites and road noise 24/7 due to two busy nearby roads.  We could hear it from anywhere in the campground, and some tents sites sit right along the side of the road.  But, we would stay again for the convenience of river location and accommodating staff.  We stayed in site 130 with 34’ trailer.

  • Lori M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Neversink River Resort
    Sep. 5, 2024

    Neversink River Resort

    Clean bathrooms, good amenities

    Stay in one of the last weekends of August.  We were a party of 8 so we needed 2 sites, the first sites we booked were horrible - so so tiny (E11 & E12) and right on a swampy pond where the grass is growing into the water so it was hard to see where the water line was.  We had kids, so we needed to move our sites.  We ended up right across the way on E7 & E8 - much better.  This loop for tent campers is mixed.  Some of the sites are literally on the road - stay away from the sites on the same side of the road as the pond.  I saw a family who literally had to block the road a little bc they couldn't park their car *and* have a tent on the tiny site.  Anything on the side of E7 is bigger and a little deeper into the trees, but nothing seemed to be private in this campground.  It was a busy weekend, so of course there was loud music and partying - it just so happens that it was next door to our sites.  Bathrooms were far on this loop.  There are little foot bridges that you could take to get to the bathroom easier (and closer) but they are set on people's campsites, so if someone is on that site it's really walking through their site to get to it.  The campground has good amenities - wifi, pool, jumping ball, playground, basketball courts, volleyball courts, and a tether ball court :).  Great for the kids.  Pool is small but it works.  There's a cafe there so we were able to grab coffees and stuff.  They deliver wood and ice to your site which is super convenient.  We would return for sure.  Also - just to let everyone know the fire pit is really small.

  • Cynthia K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Divide Campground
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Great Divide Campground

    Rock'in

     Our 4rth state in our 5 state trip is New Jersey! We wanted to see Delaware Water Gap NRA & I found a campground by Newton called The Great Divide. This is a private campground. Very scenic with a small lake, a pond & surrounded by woods. This is also the most expensive campground on our trip at $96.11 a night.

         Lots to do for families- they have kayaks for camper use. Horseshoes, tether ball, volleyball, a pool, a playground, a dog park. There's a swimming beach.

     One strange thing is there's a lot of tent sites & they seemed popular. For the amount of tent/popup sites they only have 1 shower per loop. They are very clean & checked often, but they're used heavily during the weekend. I had better luck Sunday evening. A bench outside the bathroom would have been nice to sit & wait. 

     The rv sites were all full hookup on our loop.

       We came in on a Friday & found out this campground ROCKS!!! They have live bands every Friday & Saturday night during the warm months. This might explain the higher rates. Party on!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Skyline RV Park
    Aug. 27, 2024

    Skyline RV Park

    Skyline RV Camp Has Moved

    Be advised that Skyline RV Camp has moved to:

    50 Noble St, Brooklyn, NY 11222

    The original property location at 2 Oak St was sold and is now private property.

    Google Maps coords are 40.730491531436556,-73.9577966772486

    There no longer is a waterfront view of the NYC skyline when camping at Skyline RV. The website views are misleading.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Hickok Brook

    Small, don't blink you'll miss it.

    There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping. Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY. Really is a nice quiet place. It's Labor Day weekend, see how many people try to cram in to the very limited camping area. Where I originally camped was not a spot, according to Ranger. Had to move next to the lake. Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Port Jervis Elks Brox Hiker/Biker Campground
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Port Jervis Elks Brox Hiker/Biker Campground

    Small but cool

    I read a previous review that stated small cars stay away. I nave a Nissan rogue and made it in no problem. It's .8 miles in on the right. There was another closer in but seemed full. I'm right across from the lake in amongst a copse of trees. Drawback solar is pretty much out. I would not drive an rv in here except maybe a small type trailer.

  • Damia F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Stokes State Forest
    Aug. 23, 2024

    Stokes State Forest

    Campsites too close together and camping areas are greatly spaced out

    Stokes State Forest is a beautiful park with a lot of different trails to check out, though some of them are difficult to access due to parking. The camping areas are split between two different entrances. If you’re in Lake Ocquitunk, like I was, you don’t enter at the main entrance, you have to go past the main entrance about another mile on rt. 15 N. and enter by the YMCA. All the other camping areas are near the main entrance by the forest office. The campsites themselves are a little too close together in some spots with little coverage or privacy. There is a day parking area which is only accessible going through the main entrance by the forest office— if you visit during the week park entrance is free, but on the weekend fees can be a bit steep. I wasn’t super happy with my campsite as I wasn’t able to physically have my car on the site like I thought. I had to park in a small lot above my campsite and carry my belongings down a short slope to the site. I like to car-camp so this was a bit of a let down having my car separate from my actual campsite.

    The bathrooms were nice and had flush toilets, but the showers were out of service during my time. Bathrooms are extremely spaced out so you will have to walk a far distance unless you strategically choose a site next to one. I drove through the other campsite and only saw 1 set of bathrooms that had toilets and showers per campground, not including the outhouses I saw for those in the small cabins.

  • Jessica D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kymers Camping Resort
    Aug. 11, 2024

    Kymers Camping Resort

    Fun, friendly & nestled in the woods

    We stayed at Kymer's on a whim for a weekend, so we could be close to Mountain Creek for a Spartan Race. It truly exceeded our expectations in all aspects. This is a family friendly, camper-friendly place. Lots of seasonals- everyone waves, everyone stops to chat. This is what a campground should feel like. The sound of laughter and play sitting around the huge, clean pool was refreshing. Our site was Oak 10. It was level, good placement of electric water & sewer connects. Camp store has all the basics you might need. There is a brook that flows adjacent to the property. It's peaceful & magical. Pet friendly, although we didn't have our pup with us. We will be back again. I almost feel like I'm revealing a hidden gem with this post. 💎

  • Shelby
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park
    Aug. 4, 2024

    Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park

    Book your stay elsewhere!

    If you would like a peaceful, clean campground skip this place. This was the worst campground we’ve stayed at. The bathrooms are very outdated and not cleaned often enough. The sites are too close together with very little trees between sites allowing zero privacy. Their picnic tables also are disgusting, bring a table cloth! They have a lot rules one being “no amplifying speakers allowed” that they clearly do not enforce. It sounded like a rave throughout the night even after calling the ranger station and complaining. Guests were playing loud music until about 1:30 AM and starting up again right as quiet hours ended at 7 AM. There then was a religious service happening at 8 AM with a whole amp system we could hear clearly on the other side of campground. We absolutely will not be back.

  • G Y.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Waramaug State Park Campground
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Lake Waramaug State Park Campground

    Quiet Rustic Camping

    My family has been camping at Lake Waramaug for over 20 years. I can say most of what’s been said is true or partially so but whether it’s bad or good depends on your point of view. Note that we are a Scout family and my husband and son have camped many days well off the grid with only the gear and food in their backpacks. That skews our point of view. 

    First off, Connecticut’s state campgrounds are not KOA’s. 

    Do not expect top of the line activities that private campgrounds have.

    What it does have are clean, large sites that are partially wooded and not out in the open. 

    The lake is great for kayaking, paddle boarding, canoes and for fishing. Bring your own gear but kayak and canoe rentals are available. The swim area is marginal- best for little ones. 

    This park is remote from all conveniences- pack it in or expect a drive. There have been several times I’ve driven to the Dunkin Donuts miles down the road for coffee but I find using a French press is more convenient. For takeout there’s the White Horse on 202. It’s ranked a top restaurant in the state - the food is good. 

    Never have we had issues with wildlife besides squirrels and ducks. Leave no trace is important - it keeps the unwelcome wildlife out. 

    There have been issues with the bathrooms off and on over the decades. It seems like they’ve finally fixed everything. Our trip of 7/27-28 showed everything was fine.

    The only on-site services are firewood and ice sales. The little food shack is out of business. 

    Yes, cell service is basically non-existent. Our trip this weekend was the first time we received more than 1 bar in 20 years. Actually we were a bit disappointed because this camp ground is a great place to disconnect and relax. Being forced to put away the devices is heaven in my mind. You can drive about 5+ minutes out and get cell service. Regarding rowdiness, of the 20+ times we’ve camped only twice was it a problem. 

    Also, this place is not glamping. The area is rural, so cows do moo at 6am, and kids are up even earlier. If you like to sleep in skip and rent a B&B. 

    Also if you want a better place to swim go to Mt.Tom state park about 10 minutes up the road. It’s a day use only park-no camping- but the lake is gorgeous and there are very few people there.

  • mike
    Camper-submitted photo from Fieldstone Farmstead
    Jul. 15, 2024

    Fieldstone Farmstead

    Amazing experience!

    My partner and I booked a weekend at Fieldstone Farmstead and it was such a pleasant experience.

    The outdoor shower and outhouse were such an appreciated amenity. The proximity to hiking trails and lakes was such an added benefit as well. We would have been happy hanging out in the alpaca pen all day, but it was great to cool off in the nearby lake.

    The campsite was clean and free of leaves and sticks.

    Always felt safe on the property and the star gazing was a beautiful sight. Clean, quiet and cozy weekend. Would recommend to anyone.



Guide to Thiells

Camping near Thiells, New York, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor fun. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails nearby, perfect for all skill levels. One camper mentioned, "The staff person at Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park is so sweet! She picked a site for us suitable to our vehicle and, with so few people in the campground, away from other folks but close to the bathroom."
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds are near lakes and rivers, making it easy to cast a line. A visitor at Pickerel Point Campground — Promised Land State Park said, "I can’t believe how quiet it is here. Our site is wooded and very private."
  • Swimming: Some campgrounds have swimming areas. A review from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner highlights, "The campground has a lot of activities and has kids of all ages galore."

What campers like

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. A review from Worthington State Forest Campground noted, "Bathrooms were decently clean and had flush toilets."
  • Privacy: Many sites offer a sense of seclusion. A camper at Clarence Fahnestock State Park shared, "I have camped here in all seasons including early winter when all other places were closed."
  • Friendly staff: Campers often mention helpful staff. One visitor at Camp Taylor Campground said, "The family that operates this place are the friendliest and most accommodating hosts I have encountered."

What you should know

  • Noise levels: Some campgrounds have strict noise regulations. A review from High Point State Park Campground expressed frustration, stating, "We received complaints about the volume of our music and karaoke around 7 pm."
  • Site spacing: Campsites can be close together, which may affect privacy. A camper at Pickerel Point Campground mentioned, "Camp sites are very close together. I could hear the neighbors' conversation."
  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain facilities. A visitor at Round Valley State Park Campground noted, "The primitive restrooms aren’t maintained at all."

Tips for camping with families

  • Activities for kids: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds or organized activities. A parent at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner said, "My kids enjoyed themselves a lot, and that is what matters."
  • Plan for meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals and snacks. A camper at Beaver Pond Campground mentioned, "Going for a hike here in the morning before heading out."
  • Pack games: Bring board games or outdoor games to keep everyone entertained. A review from Camp Taylor Campground highlighted, "We had running water and an electric outlet."

Tips from RVers

  • Check site size: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A camper at Clarence Fahnestock State Park advised, "Careful which site you choose."
  • Be prepared for rough roads: Some campgrounds have bumpy access roads. A visitor at Stokes State Forest noted, "The roads on the way there are epic but also beautiful."
  • Bring extra supplies: Stock up on essentials before arriving. A camper at Pickerel Point Campground mentioned, "The rod into the campground was full of potholes."

Camping near Thiells, New York, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions