Spend some time with your family in the great outdoors at one of the many great Hudson Valley Campgrounds and State Parks. Camping is a great way to unplug and spend quality time together. If adventuring out into the wilderness isn't quite your thing you can still bring the campsite lifestyle home. We recently posted 7 great backyard camping tips, here.
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Read more: Local families share: How to make the most of outdoor camping
1. Sylvan Lake Beach, Hopewell Junction
For a peaceful family spot try Sylvan Lake in Dutchess County. Campsites are along the sandy beach of the beautiful Sylvan Lake with many onsite activities to keep the entire family entertained during your stay. Choose from boating, fishing, swimming, horseshoes, volleyball, playground, basketball hoop and more.
2. Wilcox Memorial Park, Milan
A little hidden gem that (well I guess until now) not many know about! You can visit for the day or spend some time tent or RV camping too. There is plenty to do while spending your days at the park. We enjoyed the paddle boats, the lake, you can fish and the large playground provided plenty of entertainment! Plus everything is relatively close together making it easy to keep an eye on kids running in different directions. Keep in mind the lake is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays when you plan your trip!
3. Rip Van Winkle, Saugerties
When I asked around a few years ago for a great local campground many suggested Rip Van Winkle. A staple in the community, many have worked there as teens and are now raising their kids spending summers here. I trekked my two littles up, not sure what to expect and was pleasantly surprised. A nice, quiet little campground in the Catskills with plenty to do. From a refreshing dip in a good old fashioned swimming hole, a dizzying trip down the spiral slide, to a relaxing game of giant checkers, and 11 fun zones, kids will stay busy and parents stay refreshed.
4. Skyway Camping Resort, Greenfield Park
Another beautiful campground in the Catskills though the catch here is it is RV camping only. Though if you don’t have one of your own there are RVs on site availible to rent. At skyway camping there is no shortage of amentities. A toddler romping room, clubhouse, fitness center, dog run, game room, pool, fishing and paddle boats amongst many others gives you the resort feeling with a camping experience.
5. Newburgh KOA, Plattekill
If you enjoy camping, chances are you have been to a KOA. Popular through the country, they provide a safe and fun camping experience for the whole family. I particularly like the Newburgh KOA, it’s nearby and full of family fun with two swimming pools, a fishing pond, Jumping Pillow, climbing wall, basketball, mini golf, an inflatable cinema, and lots more. Not much further, the Copake KOA is another great option!
6. Rondout Valley Campground, Accord
Rondout Valley RV Campground offers campsites from basic to full hookup, as well as rental cabins and park models to accommodate every level of camper. From a swimming pool, fishing, playground, and more, it feels like you are vacationing at a top resort! A few of the other amentities include volleyball, bike trails, horse shoes and nature/hiking trails.
7. Brookside Campground, Catskill, NY
Family owned and operated, Brookside is a relaxing, family- friendly campground set on the edge of the beautiful Catskill Mountains. They have a playground filled with outdoor toys, a pirate ship to play on and explore, a swimming pool, fishing and more.
8. Lake Taghkanic State Park, Ancram
A Hudson Valley favorite, families love to spend their summer days sitting by the lake here. Camping here is an excitement in its self. Lake Taghkanic has two beaches, boating, picnic area, playing fields, swimming, fishing, hiking and even a snack shack!
9. Brook N Wood Family Campground, Elizaville
A true camping adventure! They offer an enormous amount of fun for the whole family. Enjoy games of basketball, mini-golf, volleyball, horseshoes, softball and bocci. Kids will have hours of fun at our playground, riding their bikes, exploring our forest, and splashing around in or fishing our babbling brook. Brook n Wood offers recreational activities of every kind.
10. Kingswood Campsite, Hancock
Kingswood Campsite is your family-friendly destination with something for everybody! Take a walk around the lake, swim, fish, rowboat, or canoe! Walk our fitness trail play sports in our barn. You can bring your own tent or enjoy one of our cabin tents with wooden beds and fully equipped kitchen shelters. We have an RV lot as well! Rates include all the activities and amenities mentioned before.
Updated 4/21/2024
Other articles by Pam Perry