Best Camping in and near Thacher State Park

63% (4 reviews)

Tread well when you visit this beautiful countryside filled with history in eastern New York.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Thacher State Park

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Thompson's Lake Campground

137 sites · RVs, Tents In Thacher State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Thacher State Park

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Magic Forest Farm

11 sites · RVs, Tents225 acres · Coeymans Hollow, NY

Our slice of paradise consists of 225 acres of forested land nestled in the foothills of the Catskills near Albany. We are a homestead and small campground devoted to the principles of organic farming and self reliance. Modern agriculture and big business are unsustainable, destroying farmland at a accelerating pace. It is important for us to teach the next generation, there is a alternative. We produce much of our own food. We own a sawmill, and have many natural building projects started. We have friendly goats, chickens, ducks, peacocks, donkeys and horses the guests can pet and feed. There are many waterfalls and swimming spots within a short drive. A quick 5 minute drive will get you to one of the best disc golf courses in the north east. For the truly adventurous, Clarksville cave is a short drive away. Visit their website for list of proper gear and rules. We do rent some of the equipment needed.

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Sacred Waterfall & Quiet Camping

60 sites · Lodging25 acres · NY

NOTE: THIS IS A QUIET CAMPING AREA for reconnecting with nature. Not suitable for parties or loud groups. Kahonrakén:ra, The White Spout Waterfall, is a world unto itself. For generations, the majestic waterfall has been revered for its spectacular beauty and powerful energies. It is considered a sacred site that has been central to local land rematriation work with the Kanienkeha:ka, also known as the Mohawks, the original inhabitants of Skóhare, the Schoharie Valley. Surrounded by 25 acres of both private wooded land and wide-open fields of wildflowers and fireflies, the Waterfall Cabin and Campsite are easily accessible, just off a country back road. From the campsites, it's about a 10 minute hike down the gorge to the waterfall. We do not allow partying the campsites. There is a profound healing process happening at the waterfall. At the request of the Kaneinekehaka caretakers we ask that you to respect the sacredness of this land. Thank you! There are two campsites on the property, not far from each other in the forest. One campsite is in a grass circle clearing and the other has a rustic cabin and three small flat terraces for extra tents. They are both accessed by separate footpaths through the forest, below an old red barn, surrounded by ash and walnut trees, singing birds, deer, wildflowers, and wild medicines. The campsites are not within view of each other. Each campsite has a private path down to the waterfall, where you can spend the day swimming, exploring the clay beds and looking for fossils in the 280 million year old gorge. Make a campfire at your fire pit and fall asleep under the stars listening to a 150' waterfall and the river below. Coursing between two outcroppings in a deep ravine, Kahonrakén:ra Waterfall crashes down over mossy rock shelves into a hidden pool, which then empties again into the river, running into emerald swimming holes and through dramatic clay beds. The effect is transporting. Truly, it is one of those extraordinarily beautiful spots on earth that makes you feel like you are in another world. The waterfall is amazing but the hike is steep, so please wear appropriate footwear. All hiking is at your own risk. Although your path to the waterfall is private and the waterfall is on private property, there may be other guests or locals that access the waterfall further down the road. There is no glass or alcohol allowed at the falls. Please be aware that you may hear your camping neighbors in the woods. For this reason, we ask that you don’t play amplified music and to keep noise down after 10pm so that your camping and local neighbors can chillax and enjoy the evening sounds of frogs, crickets, owls, and night songs of the countryside that makes Schoharie so special. In the big red barn at the entrance to the campsites there is a community room with a charging station, cold water sink, mini fridge, coffee maker, grills, and a port-a-potty for your use. There are also 5 gallon solar shower bags that you can use at your campsite. You are responsible for filling them and putting them in the sun to heat the water. :) This is a leave no trace campsite. Please take all your trash with you when you leave. And please bring your own biodegradable soap for dishes and toilet paper for the port-a-potty! Firewood is available onsite for $1 per log. Instructions for payment are in the community room next to the red silo at the barn. The wood is stacked at next to the red shed just uphill from the barn. You can also buy your own fire wood en route. We recommend that you buy kindling. The Schoharie Valley is said to be the most fertile valley east of the Mississippi. It is still wild, unspoiled country and there are many local farms with fresh produce and organic meat within 5 miles of the house. There are several farm stands and a general store a few miles away, Scrumpy Ewe Cidery, Panther Creek Arts, and the Sap Bush Country Store and Café just up the hill in West Fulton. Mustang Valley, a wild mustang sanctuary and rescue center, is just down the road. Nearby hikes include Looking Glass Pond and Vroman's Nose, among many others.

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Locust Grove Waterfall

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Oak Hill, NY

Fall asleep to the sounds of the waterfall on the Catskill creek! Escape the chaos - find peace and solace among the Catskill mountains. Located directly on the Catskill creek in the hamlet of Oak Hill, you'll be sleeping to the sounds of the waterfall just steps from the site. At the foot of the waterfall is your own personal swimming hole. Take advantage of the multiple hammock relaxation stations throughout the property and swimming in the creek. If you're up for a walk, the infamous Yellow Deli is just a mile down the road. We're just a few minutes away from Windham Mountain and various trails if you're the hiking type. Check out our "Must See" book in the tent for suggestions on places to enjoy during your stay. This campsite features a queen size bed for two. Site guidelines Bring loads of extra blankets and warm clothing. Boots are a must. Although the driveway is kept clear, car should ideally be AWD or 4WD depending on weather conditions. Consult your campkeeper. Let your campkeeper know when you are arriving so we can light up entry for you. Cleanup all common spaces when you leave. But, make yourself at home. Video Footage of the site - Instagram - @locustgroveny ***We have added a second full size glamping tent, the same size as the main tent with a queen size bed. This is only available to you when you book this site with a capacity of more than 2 people, it will never be rented to anyone else when you are there.

Campaway on Cotton Hill

2 sites · Lodging21 acres · Berne, NY

Nestled in the Helderberg Hills, north of the Catskill Mountains sits a campsite on Cotton Hill. This is the perfect campsite for fishing, swimming, creek walking, fossil hunting, mountain views, star gazing, and just relaxing and enjoying the outdoors. We are close to award-winning breweries, wineries, historic sites, farmers markets, restaurants, and shopping. We have several accessible hiking trails with great views nearby. We can't wait to welcome you to our private slice of heaven. There are 21 acres for you to discover with 10 acres in front, and 11 acres of woods with a meandering creek as the border. You can think of this land as your land for the duration of your stay. Respect the land and tent as you would your own. Squish your toes into the earth and breathe in the wild thyme-filled grassy trails. Go for a walk in the woods. Take a deep breath. Relax & recharge! The pebble beach at the pond allows for a gradual entry and goes to 16 feet deep in the middle. Feel free to swim on out to the floating dock. We love jumping in. There are many fish in the pond, most of them are large mouth bass. You may use our canoe, but please wear a life jacket if you are not a confident swimmer. (*Swimming is at your own risk!) The ‘Fossil Creek Trail’ leads down through the woods from the pond area to the slate bed creek. (*Please watch your footing on the trail- some is quite uneven.) There are many amazing fossils to find if you look in the creek bed during the dry season. The woods are cooler and bug free, perfect for siting and relaxing with a book or picnic. There are several trails that wind around the pond and then back up to the Tent.

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Dharma Bums Eco Lodge

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents45 acres · Castleton On Hudson, NY

We have three different sites to choose from: Tiny House, Glamping, and Camp Site. Each is unique and private from each other! The bathroom is shared with the other sites, but it is covered and well maintained. Enjoy our private outdoor shower and toilet! Extras are available to purchase: firewood bundle, wine tasting and farm fresh eggs. All of our sites are animal friendly! Let your dog roam here! Our property sits on the foothills of the Adirondack's on 45 beautiful acres just 15 minutes east of Albany. Choose to explore our vineyard and winery on site and opt into our wine tasting next door. Open April-October, Friday-Sunday, 10-4pm Trails and walking paths are throughout the property and you may even catch our horses and honey bees that roam our beautiful community! Across the street is the Empire Foot/Rail Trails which is special for walking and biking. Local landmarks nearby and easy access to HWYs. Waterfalls and nice parks nearby Just a short distance away, our special community area that hosts yoga classes, and gathering sites: picnic tables, fire pits, gardens etc! We are just a short distance away from Troy and Albany

Booked 1 time

Mapletree Farm

2 sites · Lodging, Tents19 acres · Altamont, NY

We love the land, forest and streams around Altamont. We are working to build our vegetable and flower gardens, and create a small orchard. Our campsite is located near the fields, orchard and a quiet brook. Learn more about this land: Private, beautiful sweet camping site on almost 20 acres near charming, historic Altamont Village. The campground is in a flat, secluded grove with privacy. You can wake up in the morning with views of the Helderberg Escarpment! We are minutes from Altamont Orchards and Thatcher State Park, Indian Ladder Orchard, and all that this area has to offer. Walk to the village. Less than 25 minutes to downtown Albany, University of Albany, lots of great restaurants and cafes. Don't miss the nearby Bozenkill Preserve and a visit to Thatcher State Park for 25 miles of great hiking and panoramic views of the Hudson-Mohawk Valleys and the Adirondacks, Berkshires and Green Mountains. Climbing, hiking, apple orchards. Then come back for dinner at the Farmhouse Tap and Tavern, Allied Brewing Co, Cider House or Village Pizza and Paisano's Pizza followed by a peaceful night at this private campsite at our farm and forest property.

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Creek side

4 sites · Lodging8 acres · Schoharie, NY

Come stay in a cozy cabin in the woods, creek side with a patio over looking the creek, cabin is heated by wood, generator runs cabin, nice getaway to enjoy nature at its finest, local bar/restaurant located 3 minutes from property, out side out house for bathroom, cabin does not have running water.

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Upper Shire Campsites Hudson Valley

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents22 acres · Hillsdale, NY

The Upper Shire Private Campsites in the Hudson Valley are on a gorgeous hill with a small pond surrounded by 22 acres of an old horse ranch. Located in Columbia County near the border of Massachusetts and New York. There are currently 5 unique camping areas located here. Each one is special due to its location on the hill. Check out our map and enjoy our spacious yet secluded campsites. This place comes with a relaxed atmosphere and is located near Catamount Ski Resort, Bash Bish Falls, Taconic State Park, Hudson NY, and Great Barrington, MA. If you plan on bringing a pet please be sure to add that fee to your booking under "extras" ($25) If you have additional guest(s) that would like to join you that fee is ($25 a night per person) and you will need to message us about how to arrange that. We have extra easy pop-up two person tents are available to rent ($15 for two nights) you can also find that option under "extras" along with bundles of firewood ($15)

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Streams and near-by Activities

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Gilboa, NY

The site was once home to the Old Gilboa Post Office and has amazing ecological features including fossilsLearn more about this land:This is a 2 acre site that offers a wonderful terrain with 2 streams one being seasonal and the other spring fed, wooded hills and 4 seperate clearings to set up a campsite. The Driveways are large enough to fit a 36ft Travel Trailer or even a small watercraft with Trailer. There are plenty of activities in the area from hiking, fishing, wildlife watching, fossil hunting, sight seeing and more.

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Hickory Hollow

2 sites · Tents9 acres · Jefferson Heights, NY

Welcome to Hickory Hollow! Located 7 minutes from the Town of Catskill, 25 minutes from Hudson, and just under the Catskill Mountains, Hickory Hollow is the perfect campsite to take full advantage of the Upper Hudson Valley. There are two campsites you can chose from, both in clearings that make for great star gazing. Camp 1 is deeper into the forest taking about two minutes to walk to from the parking area. Camp site 2 is only a one minute walk but much closer to the farm. If you are coming with a dog, I would recommend staying at Camp site 1, as the farms dogs are very vocal when there are new friends in the area. Each campsite comes with a fire pit, a grate for cooking, and a picnic table. There is parking provided and a composting outhouse. You will need to bring your own firewood, though there is plenty of available kindling. The property is 9 acres and I encourage guests to hike down to the stream and take a walk if they feel comfortable. If not there are so many hiking/swimming options nearby and I am happy to point you in the right direction. This property has a been a life long dream of mine, and is (in my opinion) the most beautiful place on earth. That being said there is a still a lot of work that I am doing since this is a very new endeavor. So please watch yourself if you do decide to stay. The Hollow is beautiful but also very steep, so please be careful while you walk the woods. Pets are welcome, but again, be safe. There is an abundance of wildlife in the Hollow (see if you can spot the porcupine) but that can be very distracting for dogs, so be cautious when letting them off lead. Check out https://www.instagram.com/0hickoryhollow/ for photos of the progress.

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Private campsites miles of trails!

26 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Adams, MA

Aisling Mountain Farm campgrounds are located in Adams MA, is directly connected to Mount Greylock state park and its miles of trails. We currently have four tent campsites throughout the year with one that will accommodate trailers up to 16' without backing up! Enjoy the view, our cascading waterfall brook, and spend some time with our horses. Please see our FB page at Aisling Mountain Farm for more info. SOLID SOUND FESTIVAL CAMPERS PLEASE MESSAGE US BEFORE YOU REQUEST. With the increased traffic for the event, we have changes to our venue. Aisling Mountain Farm event campgrounds are available for local events. Tent camping conveniently located close to North Adams and Mass MoCA, with direct access to Mount Greylock and miles of trails. Minutes from free parking with shuttle service to Mass MoCA festivals. On event weekends we will have fire pits located around the property for everyone's use. unfortunately for large events we will not be able to accommodate trailers or RV campers.

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Runamuk Farm

5 sites · Lodging40 acres · Cambridge, NY

Picturesque location on farmland with views of the mountains. We are a micro-farm. Go for a short hike on the property, get to know the animals watch the sunset most of the summer. We are located 35 minutes from Saratoga Springs and Lake George, NY, and 45 minutes from Dorset and Manchester, VT. Hike the Adirondack or Green Mountains, paddle the streams or go to a nearby small city for a play, a festival, or a concert. There is a long list of things to do and see within an hour of our tent.

The best camping near Thacher State Park guide

Overview

About

Steep limestone cliffs rise above the surrounding plains 15 miles east of Albany. These cliffs are special for several reasons. They provide great views of the Hudson and Mohawk Valleys 1,300 feet below. They also harbor some of the richest fossil-bearing formations in the world.

Geologists still study the rocks today. There are around 40 caves in the park. The longest of them is Hailes Cave, and it stretches for more than 3,700 feet.

Geology aside, Indian Ladder Trail is the most popular trail in the park. The trail straddles a cliffside high above the park. When you hear a gentle rush of water, that means you're about to walk behind Minelot Falls.

Bring your flashlight to peek into the caves you see along the way. At the top of the trail, you see the Hudson Valley below you. The Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center helps explain the rich natural beauty of this place.

Thompson's Lake Campground accommodates tents or RVs. Around 140 campsites vary from secluded to open.