The best camping in James Baird State Park, NY

·

Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor activities at James Baird State Park.  

The best camping in James Baird State Park, NY

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
The new, upgraded cabin!

4. Offsite Cabin Wassaic

98%
(33)
15mi from James Baird State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Wassaic, NY
***PLEASE READ DESCRIPTION - NO RUNNING WATER NOV - MARCH*** Our *NEW* cabin is located on the top of a clearing in the mountains outside Wassaic. Enjoy swimming, hiking, chilling, fires and sunsets views without any light pollution or street noise. Designed as a retreat for the modern creative, the cabin is fully off-grid but features Starlink Internet, a compost toilet and heat / AC. We do provide 5 gallons drinking / cleaning water, but during the winter no sinks or showers are operable. Nearby towns (Kent, CT / Wassaic, NY) have awesome art, shopping and plenty of food options as well as easy access to the Appalachian trail and Macedonia state park. 15 minutes from the Wassaic metro north station, the cabin can be reach by taxi. The cabin is accessible by car, but may require a short hike in after heavy rain or snow.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$225
 / night
Archmage Sanctuary

5. Archmage Sanctuary

100%
(38)
16mi from James Baird State Park · 1 site · Tent · Wassaic, NY
Our land is 18 acres of a wooded hill, surrounded by hundreds more acres of trust-preserved land. A brook glitters from across the street, visible from most spots on the hill. The preserve land can be hiked, though there are not always paths. Macedonia and Kent Falls state parks are nearby by car, as well as an entrance to the Appalachian Trail just five minutes down the road. We are just six minutes away from the Tenmile River Metro North station and can pick you up with advance coordination. The town of Kent, Connecticut is a 7-minute drive and has lots of shops, dining, and an art gallery. The town of Amenia, New York is a 12-minute drive and has a drive-in movie theater, and some restaurants. Historic Downtown Wassaic is a 7-minute drive and is home to the Wassaic Project art gallery.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Lean to

7. Lean-to spacious site.

99%
(56)
16mi from James Baird State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Clinton Corners, NY
We are located in the heart of the Hudson Valley, close to the Village of Rhinebeck and the Hudson River. There are many things to do within a half an hour of the campsite. Learn more about this land: A very spacious semi-wooded site that is in the shape of a triangle. The dimensions are approximately 100' by 100' by 50'. Perfect for the large group camp out or the family site. The Lean-to is approximately 10'x9', large enough for a small tent or keep the picnic table in there for bad weather. Large or multiple tents no problem, put your tents in the wooded area where there is room for multiple tents. There is a fire pit area, picnic table, 4 outdoor chairs and corn hole that all are included with the site. A seasonal stream runs along the campsite giving you a nice bubbling brook sound.  Plenty of privacy with screens around the site. Within 15-20 minutes of our site is just about anything you could desire. Local restaurants, hiking, fishing, shopping, drive in movie and much much more. Rainy days no problem explore one of our nations pieces of history, Vanderbilt mansion, Theodore Roosevelt home, Montgomery Place Mansion, Poets walk, Ferncliff forest, or Art Omi. If you would like to look at some places close by, we have a google doc it is bit.ly/ 2KvA05U [just without the space between them]
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$43
 / night
The 1772 Lefevre Homestead

9. The 1772 Lefevre Homestead

94%
(106)
17mi from James Baird State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · New Paltz, NY
This property was once a working apple orchard. Over regulation made it very difficult to manage so we let it lie foul for years. Then we let a fellow farmer use it to graze his cattle. Now our children has taking it over and are raising beef cattle on the property. Our campsite lies on the beautiful two and a half century old LeFevre family farmstead with rich history and stunning views of the Shawangunk Mountain ridge. The property is on a 40-acre old apple orchard that is super private and filled with dramatic views and spectacular sunsets. Wake up in your tent to the sounds of birds chirping, roasters crowing and cows just close enough but just far enough way. On occasion there may be a person driving by to tend to the cattle.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$64
 / night
Red Fox Meadow Campsite

10. Red Fox Meadow Campsite

95%
(264)
18mi from James Baird State Park · 4 sites · Tents · New Paltz, NY
Learn more about this land: A grassy meadow nestled between a forested ridge the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, an open access walking and bike path. The Rosendale Rail Trail Cafe is just across the meadow from you and Rosendale trestle bridge is a short bike or walk away. We do have hot water showers and heated bathrooms in the Owlwood. Use our hand drawn map to find your way around the farm. Please drive extremely slowly while on the farm road, there and kids and critters everywhere and your car will thank you! Also, we encourage everyone to drive as little as possible while on the farm, why drive when you can walk and enjoy the land. If you want to sleep in a car or rv make sure to contact us so we can let you know where to car camp. No cars are allowed in Red Fox Meadow. Also, if the meadow seems too wet to camp give us a shout, there are other areas to camp that are dryer in the wet moments, just not as private. We look forward to meeting you!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$32
 / night
Watching the sunset from my tent.

11. The Mountain Top @Wright's Farm

97%
(761)
18mi from James Baird State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Gardiner , NY
It all started when grandfather Charles B Wright first establish this farm in 1904. He purchased it for its natural springs. In our barn (now home to Gardiner Brewing Company) he had gravity fed water troughs for his cattle. Since then we have slowly switched from animals to tree fruit. You will enjoy rolling hills of fruit trees and fruit gardens along with beautiful views of the Shawangunk Mountain Ridge. We have 450+ acres so it in very private. As we are a working farm, you can see us driving pass with our tractors or maintaining the orchard around your campsite on occasion. You are welcome to ride your bikes, hike or jog where you will pass ponds and a working farm landscape. Please don’t pick our fruit. If you would like to enjoy the fruits of our labor please visit our farm store open year round on the premises where we sell cheeses, our fresh picked fruit and veggies, local meats, and our famous cider donuts along with other farm products. We also have a farm brewery open 3-7 in our old dairy barn for you to enjoy. Live music Saturdays and Sundays. Minnewaska State Park and Mohonk Reserve are only 10 minutes away. The rail trail is three minutes away. This trail gives you walking and biking access into New Paltz, where there is tons of restaurants and lots of shopping. Please be aware that during the months of September and October there may be a Pick-Your-Own customer or two walking around picking apples around the campsite area between the hours of 10:00-6:00. You are also welcome to come down to the farm market and purchase bags to pick your own apples in season.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Hunterbrook Mountain

12. Hunterbrook Mountain

100%
(17)
18mi from James Baird State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Carmel, NY
Welcome to our luxurious campsite nestled in the serene beauty of a mountain forest, alongside a picturesque mountain creek with a soothing waterfall. Here's what you can expect from your stay:Accommodations:A spacious 10x12 canvas tent awaits you, situated on a raised wood platform for comfort and protection from the elements.Inside the tent, you'll find a cozy queen-size memory foam bed, ensuring a restful night's sleep after your outdoor adventures.Outdoor Amenities:Two picnic tables provide ample space for dining or enjoying a game with friends and family.A fire pit with a cooking grill invites you to savor the experience of cooking meals over an open flame.Additionally, a propane grill is available for your convenience if you prefer grilling with ease.Comfort and Convenience:Stay warm during chilly nights with the provided propane tent heater, ensuring a comfortable camping experience.For your hygiene needs, a camp toilet and camp shower are conveniently located on-site.Exploration and Activities:Our 25+ acres of property boast hiking trails waiting to be explored, offering breathtaking views and opportunities to connect with nature.Nearby Cold Spring, NY, offers a variety of restaurants to satisfy your culinary desires.Fahnstock State Park, just a 10-minute drive away, presents further outdoor activities and scenic landscapes.If you're an avid hiker, numerous off-site opportunities, including the Appalachian Trail, await your exploration.Transportation:We offer a jeep service to transport your gear to and from the campsite, unless the ground conditions necessitate a walk-in, walk-out approach.Experience the perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and natural beauty at our campsite, where every detail is designed to enhance your outdoor getaway.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$136
 / night
The campsite dining area.

14. Robibero's Retreat

97%
(220)
19mi from James Baird State Park · 2 sites · Tents · Gardiner, NY
Originally the Wallkill summer camp in the 70's we have turned this property into one of the Hudson Valleys premier wineries. Owned by the Robibero Family since 2003, we have revamped the entire property to be a quite and peaceful nook with gorgeous VineyardsWinery by day, campgrounds by night. Our secluded field is the perfect spot to pitch a tent and enjoy a night away from the noise. A roaring fire is a must as you can sit around in our tables and chairs and feel the heat from our 10 foot diameter fire pit! Many local hiking, fishing, and climbing spots nearby just a few miles away from our location. Bring your pet! Toilet also available.Just a 5 minute drive into the historic town of New Paltz and you will find many unique shops and great restaurants to indulgePlease call the winery for availability if you are interested in tastings.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$70
 / night
A queen size memory foam bed awaits you  !

15. Luxury Camping at 'Higher Ground'

99%
(44)
21mi from James Baird State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Putnam Valley, NY
HIGHER GROUND sits at the very southern tip of Clarence Fahnestock State Park. It's the ideal getaway if you want to explore Fahnestock, check out neighboring Cold Spring, Beacon, Peekskill, or just want to hang out at the site and read/relax by a campfire. We're only 1.5 miles from a SECRET entrance to Fahnestock and the trailhead to Candlewood Hill, one of the park's most exquisite views.. Just 2.5 miles away is a main parking lot and the hub for several other hiking trails including Catfish Loop, Three Lakes, Old Mine Railroad and the famed Appalachian Trail. We can provide you with a trail map and help plan your hike. Swimming at Canopus Lake is only 7 miles away. Other Fahenstock activities include fishing, boat rentals, biking, and snowshoeing/x-country skiing in the winter. Both the Glynwood Center for Regional Food and Farming and Stonecrop Gardens are only about 8 minutes away. 15 minutes to the west, poised on the Hudson River is the historic colonial town of Cold Spring, with shopping, lovely restaurants, plenty of natural attractions and a picturesque riverfront. 30 minutes northwest is the more bustling hipster vibe of Beacon with coffee shops and live music venues, and 20 minutes southeast puts you in the heart of downtown Peekskill with Hudson Valley MOCA and the Paramount Theater. We offer a 1 night minimum, but reservations for 3 or more nights will receive a 10% refund after you reserve the site.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$150
 / night
Historic Riverside Farm

17. Historic Riverside Farm

100%
(455)
22mi from James Baird State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Walden, NY
This amazing 50 acre farm is on the State and National Historic Register. Once part of the Milton Bodine land tract, this property has been privately owned for 4 generations. Come explore all Riverside Farm has to offer. **BEST IN NEW YORK 2022 and 2023** Voted Hipcamp #1 place to visit for 2022 *Riverside Farm was granted one of the States first Conditional Adult Use Cannabis Cultivation Licenses and has since formed FlowerHouse NY. The cultivation of New York's first licensed cannabis crops and products are happening offsite, at another location. However Riverside Farm is still an active and working Farm* Follow along @FlowerHouse_ny and @Waldenriversidefarminc This picturesque family farm is conveniently located just 80 miles from both Manhattan and Albany. Riverside Farm offers 1600 feet of direct river access, ponds, rolling meadows and woodlands. You’ll have 50 acres of freedom to enjoy at your leisure. There are convenient walking paths cut throughout the property to help guide you. The farm is yours to explore, check out the beautiful, historical barns, old school hand water pumps, the old-world windmill and other hidden treasures. All the campsites have plenty of space between each other (roughly 300 ft), and they all have their own access points to the river. We are approximately 1.5 miles from Angry Orchard Cider House. The new City Winery in Montgomery is minutes away. We are located right in the middle of the Shawangunk Wine Trail and have dozens of wineries and craft breweries within 20 miles of the farm. World class hiking trails and breathtaking views await at Minnewaska State Park and Mohonk Mountain House, both just 15 miles away. The Bashakill Preserve is home to some of the best bird watching in the Northeast and is 5 miles away. The walkway over the Hudson and fine dining options at Newburgh's waterfront are also within a short 20 minute drive. The Shawangunk, Wallkill and Hudson Valley rail trails are easily accessible for those wanting to bike or jog. Whether you're looking for a home base to explore the wonderful Hudson Valley and its attractions or looking to get completely lost in nature's peacefulness and beauty, Riverside Farm is the spot. Cancellations- If you cancel at least 1 week before your check in day and time, you’ll receive a full refund (minus Hipcamp fees). If you cancel within the 1 week before check in, there will be no refund. **unless WE reached out to you about concerning weather conditions!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$54
 / night
Sacred Hollow in Heart of Hudson

20. Sacred Hollow in Heart of Hudson

91%
(22)
23mi from James Baird State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hurley, NY
the locals know our street because of the indigenous people and early Dutch settlers mixing with the slaves. Much history here, with the small town of stone houses, making Hurley a national historic destination. This serene is secluded on a mountain surrounded by trees with seasonal views. The campsite is neighboring 105 acres of beautiful conservatory land available for hiking. No true trails are available, but you can be adventurous and hike further up the mountain, arriving to a clearing, providing you with a lovely mountainous view. From the mountain, you can hike to a waterfall or even hike across a lovely plain field surrounded by mountain ranges on both sides and crossing the creek over to Historic Stone houses in Hurley. Within a 10 minute drive check out some of the local restaurants like Alebrijes, Hickory BBQ & Smokehouse, and the Hurley Inn where the movie “Tootsie” was filmed!. Hurley Marbletown Trailhead and Rail trail parking are only a 6 minute drive away! The town of Kingston is about 15 minutes from our site where you will find Bluestone Wild Forest, antique shops, restaurants, other outdoor activities! The nights are just spectacular as you look into the sky surrounded by a blanket of stars, able to see the many constellations looking like jewels on a black cloth. The sounds of nature and all of it's distinct calls including that of eagles, is truly an experience. And we cannot forget our other friendly neighbors, the wild turkeys and deer! We are very appreciative of this beauty and would love to share this sacred place with you. Learn more about this land: Feels like you’re away from civilization but yet close to all the Hudson valley has to offer. 15-20min from Woodstock, rosendale, stone ridge, Rhinebeck, red hook, New Paltz and Mohawnk short 30 min drive. The glampsite is a yurt with a fire pit and a full modern bathroom just a short walk away. For a small fee, you can also rent our bikes for riding the nearby rail trail or just visit the waterfall 2 miles away. Wood available for purchase. THE HOT TUB IS PART OF A MINI-SPA PACKAGE AAND IS AVAILABLE FOR AN ADDITIONAL FEE. Not only will You be relaxing, but also connecting with the cosmos through a 1 hr transformative healing session offered by the host for an extra fee.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$54
 / night

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next James Baird State Park adventure.

Camper favorites near James Baird State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Calendar icon
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
Van icon
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Star icon
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Stories from the community

Other options near James Baird State Park

The best camping in James Baird State Park, NY guide

Overview

About

Nestled in the heart of Pleasant Valley, James Baird State Park offers a serene escape with its lush picnic areas, challenging golf course, and diverse recreational opportunities. Whether you're teeing off on the Robert Trent Jones-designed greens, enjoying a family picnic, or exploring the seven miles of picturesque trails, this park caters to all who seek adventure amid nature's splendor.

When to go

The ideal time to visit James Baird State Park is from April through mid-December, when the park's full suite of activities, including golf, is available. Summer months offer warm weather perfect for hiking and picnicking, while winter brings the quiet beauty of snow-covered trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Know before you go

  • Ensure your pets are supervised and on a leash not exceeding 6 feet in length, with rabies inoculation proof on hand if requested.
  • Accessible amenities are available, including food services and shelter rentals.
  • Remember, the park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, with no vehicle use fee required for entry.
  • For group events or pavilion reservations, plan ahead and book through the official reservation system.
  • Stay informed about the weather and any seasonal changes that might affect park facilities and hours of operation.
Be the first to review
Share your experience here to help other campers.