Camping options near Watervliet, New York span across the Berkshire Mountains into western Massachusetts and southern Vermont. The region sits at the junction of several mountain ranges with elevations ranging from 200 to 1,400 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds in this area maintain moderate to high levels of tree cover, providing natural shade during summer months when temperatures typically range from 55-85°F.
What to do
Hiking at Woodford State Park: The park features extensive trail systems with options for all skill levels. "The trails in October Mountain State Forest are very pretty, with some grand vistas to pull over if you're some sort of nature pervert or lookie loo. Good fishin' and mushroom hunting and other things white folks like to do in these parts, too," notes a visitor to October Mountain State Forest.
Kayaking on local ponds: Many campgrounds feature ponds suitable for paddling. At Woodford State Park, one camper reports, "We unexpectedly had a free Saturday afternoon and night and 2 borrowed kayaks. The reservoir is beautiful- plenty of space to spread out for paddling and swimming."
Visit Bash Bish Falls: This natural waterfall sits on the New York-Massachusetts border. "Nearby is the main attraction Bash Bish Falls, which you take a short hike across state lines into Mass," explains a camper at Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park. The park connects directly to this popular hiking destination with trails leading from the campground.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots with natural barriers. One guest at Savoy Mountain State Forest observed, "Many of the sites (most of the ones on the periphery of the campground) are wooded and somewhat secluded, with 1-3 being the most secluded. We stayed in site 1, and we could barely see our neighbor's fire at night, because there were so many trees between us."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain high cleanliness standards. "The bathrooms were the cleanest campground bathrooms I've ever seen! The campsites are pretty big and somewhat private which is nice," reports a visitor to Woodford State Park.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities for animal sightings. At Piebald Mountain, visitors note wildlife encounters: "We were greeted by some turkey and visited by some deer. Comfy and cozy setting."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have poor to no cellular coverage. At Savoy Mountain State Forest, a camper reports, "The park is so hard to find that not even a cell signal can get there, if your looking to unplug this is a great spot!"
Varying site privacy: Site selection matters for those seeking seclusion. "What site you get makes all the difference. There are Many, I would say most, Sites that you feel very exposed and out in the open. Just plopped next to someone on the grass," warns a camper at October Mountain State Forest.
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds close during winter months. Frosty Acres Campground operates from May to October, with a camper noting, "They have a small winter section. You'll have the entire mountain side all to yourself! Snowshoe, cross country ski. Winter campfires. Elevation about 1409 feet."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation access: Many sites offer swimming areas specifically designed for children. Woodford State Park features "a small pond with swimming beach and a couple was just pulling their kayak out when I arrived," notes a visitor.
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds organize regular events for children. "Great for families! There are tons of different types of campsites with either tent spots, lean tos, and a few (hard to get) cabins. Bathrooms are plentiful and clean, hot showers for a small price. Beautiful clean swimmable lake with a walking trail around it," shares a Woodford State Park visitor.
Playground facilities: Several parks include dedicated play areas. Moreau Lake State Park has "a nice playground for kids to enjoy," according to a recent visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited but available. At Lake George RV Park, "Every site had full hookups. Nice for not having to empty grey tanks into wagon!" mentions an RVer.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. A visitor to Lake George RV Park advises, "Sites are decent size, but be sure to bring boards to level your trailer for some sites are quite uneven!"
Road access considerations: Some parks have challenging access roads. For Savoy Mountain State Forest, a camper warns, "Google Maps will often take you down a bumpy dirt road....stick to Rt 2 as long as possible if you're coming from that direction!"
Dumping stations: Most parks without full hookups provide dump stations. At Moreau Lake State Park, "This is dry camping so there are no hook-ups but there are restrooms and shower. Both were clean but the shower fluctuated between lukewarm, hot, and warm during my shower."
