Beach Camping Near Dover Plains, New York, US: 12 Best Beach Campsites 2026

Set up camp in Dover Plains if you’re after beach access—there are over 1,180 campsites here where sand and water are always within reach. Expect options starting at $48 a night, with most places averaging around $102. You’ll find sites where you can swim, spot wildlife, or even try your luck at snow sports come winter. Bring your pets, rinse off in a hot shower, and count on toilets at most sites. Locals swear by Bare Camping (40 reviews), High Peak Meadows (17 reviews), and Forest Treasure Island (8 reviews) for easy beach access and a laid-back camp vibe. Pack for wet and dry weather, and don’t forget your binoculars—wildlife-watching here rarely disappoints.

90% (94)

Top-rated campgrounds near Dover Plains

Set up camp in Dover Plains if you’re after beach access—there are over 1,180 campsites here where sand and water are always within reach. Expect options starting at $48 a night, with most places averaging around $102. You’ll find sites where you can swim, spot wildlife, or even try your luck at snow sports come winter. Bring your pets, rinse off in a hot shower, and count on toilets at most sites. Locals swear by Bare Camping (40 reviews), High Peak Meadows (17 reviews), and Forest Treasure Island (8 reviews) for easy beach access and a laid-back camp vibe. Pack for wet and dry weather, and don’t forget your binoculars—wildlife-watching here rarely disappoints.

90% (94)

Top-rated campgrounds near Dover Plains

1. Bare Camping

79%

(68)

44mi from Dover Plains · 6 sites · Tents

Property was bought just as another project. However, after realizing the beautiful surroundings it only made sense to share it with others.

2. Harbour House

86%

(14)

46mi from Dover Plains · 4 sites · RVs

A Direct Water Front Property adjacent to the Public Boat Ramp. Sweeping views of Long Island Sound. Power and Water hookup available. There is 3 miles of bike/walking path along beach. Bird Sanctuary and Walking distance to a new Tiki Bar / Pub/ With Live Music / Ice Cream and close to the legendary New Haven Pizza Joints. Use of house back patio with Adirondack Chairs for morning coffee sunrises or sunset cocktails. The main 3 spots are located in a 40ft driveway. The 4th spot next to the house is perfect for Vans.

3. Serene Shoreline Retreat Farm House

100%

(3)

50mi from Dover Plains · 1 site · Lodging

Escape to Healing By Growing (HBG) Farms in scenic East Haven, Connecticut, for a unique restorative overnight stay. Immerse yourself in the tranquil rhythms of our 0.10 acre suburban farm, where your visit directly supports our vital Agritherapy program for Brain Injury & Trauma Survivors. * Comfort with Convenience: Farmhouse downstairs space offering comfortable accommodations with full access to plumbing and electricity for added ease during your stay. Bring your own bedding, pillows, towels and toiletries Or we can provide it for you as on Add on for an additional fee.. Your HBG Farm Experience: What You'll See: * A Healing Farm in Action: Witness the daily life of our small-scale, diversified farm. Depending on the season, you might see planting in our fields and greenhouse, harvesting fresh vegetables and herbs, tending the land or our gentle animal husbandry practices. * Respectful Observation of Agritherapy: While the privacy of our program participants is paramount, you may observe from a respectful distance the peaceful activities of our Brain Injury and Trauma Survivors. This could include gardening, mindful beach walks just 3 minutes from the property, or nature-inspired creative projects. * Beautiful Healing Landscape: Discover the serenity of our farm, featuring a rain garden, a tranquil calming koi pond, a fruit orchard, and thoughtfully designed spaces that promote well-being. * Dedicated Program Areas: You'll see areas specifically created for our Agritherapy program, including accessible garden beds, quiet seating for reflection, and our outdoor covered classroom. * Sustainable Practices: Learn about our commitment to the environment by observing our composting systems, rainwater filtration, and other eco-conscious methods in action. * Proximity to the Shore: Enjoy the best of both worlds! Our farm is a mere 3-minute walk to the beach, offering a readily accessible sanctuary for relaxation, healing, and rejuvenation. What You Can Do: * Immerse in Beach or Farm Life: Unwind!

4. Macedonia Brook State Park

100%

(3)

51 sites · Connecticut

A trip to Macedonia Brook State Park is basically what the word “splendid” was invented for—blissfully scenic and impossibly pleasurable. Hiking down the Blue Trail, you can’t help but feel good about the world. Wipe that smile off your face, we dare you. It’s okay, we know you can’t.The Blue Trail, which is by far the main area attraction, meanders over Cobble Mountain and several other peaks, crossing a handful of babbling springs and streams. The views of the Catskills and Taconics are downright gorgeous. And don’t even get us started on fall colors. So go have yourself a splendid time at Macedonia Brook.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Lake Waramaug State Park

76 sites · New Preston, Connecticut

If there was a beauty pageant for all the lakes in Connecticut, Lake Waramaug wins, hands down. It’s not even a competition. Scenically, Lake Waramaug State Park is unrivaled. Being caught without a camera here is like showing up to potluck without a dish. You just don’t do it.When the fall foliage starts to peak, whoa. The sight of the vivid colors reflected in the unrippled lake surface is more beautiful than anything you’ve ever seen. Don’t let your significant other hear you say that, though. If you listen closely, you can hear the clicking shutters of a thousand photographers.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. High Peak Meadows

99%

(43)

40mi from Dover Plains · 2 sites · Lodging

Unplug, unwind, and recharge amongst 250 acres of private property conservation forest at our peaceful waterfall campsite in a secluded 3-acre meadow . Just off the NY Scenic Byway County Route 16, there is tons of space for larger groups. A New York favorite. Greet the morning sun from your tent as it rises above High Peak. Surrounded by the Indian Head Wilderness peaks, you'll enjoy the cool mountain air at night and stunning views all day long. Hike the trails and then dip in the creek when you get back. This campsite is equipped with a single Queen-sized cot with air mattress, woodstove, portable camp toilet, solar heated sun shower. Bring your own bedding/sleeping bags. Drive-up access requires SUV-type clearance for the creek crossings. For easier 2 wheel access check out my other 5-star secluded campsite- Schoharie Creekside Tent. Only a quick drive to Tannersville, Hunter, Windham, Palenville, Woodstock, Phoenicia, Catskill and Saugerties where you can explore the cute town, restaurants, and shops. The site is perched on the banks of the Roaring Kill Stream, perfect for swimming and fishing. There are also lots of flat areas to put additional tents. Great access to the Roaring Kill Trailhead and to the Devil's Path Hiking Trail. If you're looking for some water activities take a short drive to Colgate Lake. Site guidelines Do be careful driving on the dirt jeep track out to the camp. Don't miss swimming in the Roaring Kill Falls. Do leave the campsite just as you found it. "Don't feed the bears." Seriously, do keep a very clean camp. Do ask questions about local activities- swimming holes, hiking, etc. Please take all trash with you, leave no trace!

7. Housatonic Meadows State Park

100%

(1)

61 sites · Sharon, Connecticut

The term “back to nature” is taken very seriously at Housatonic Meadows State Park. You thought an afternoon in the park was reconnecting with Mother Nature? Think again. For a real taste of unabated wilderness try visiting this place. One night under the stars on the banks of the Housatonic River will have you howling at the moon and starting fires without those sissy matches.Tucked away in the rugged hills of the northwestern uplands, a trip here will carry you satisfyingly far from any major metropolitan area. No four-lane highways and bumper-to-bumper traffic—this is the land of deer-crossing signs and single-lane bridges. You can fish the river, roam miles of trails and spend the night just steps away from both. No matter what time you visit, nature welcomes you.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

8. Mills Norrie State Park

90%

(5)

55 sites · Staatsburg, New York

At Mills Norrie State Park, there’s so much to do! Drive in, boat in, hike in, the choice is yours. Comprised of more that 1,000 acres in the Taconic Region of New York, you can shop, dine, barbeque, or camp out under the stars or reserve a cabin for a fancy affair. When you visit Mills Norrie State Park, there are many sites not to be missed. Take a hike (or snowshoe!) to view the Hudson River or kayak through its waters. In fact, come in summer and winter and do them both. We’ll see you there!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

9. Fahnestock State Park

86%

(14)

75 sites · Merritt Park, New York

Whether on the water or on the trails, this NY park is the perfect setting for adventure.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

10. Black Rock State Park

76 sites · Thomaston, Connecticut

Up, down. Up, down. Up, down…the rolling hills of Black Rock State Park would lull you to sleep in a heartbeat. That is, if your legs weren’t pumping and sweat wasn’t trickling down your face. With each crest of a wooded hilltop, the hiking gets even better, and more remote, too.Scenic views and cool waters put Black Rock high on the traveler’s list when the weekend rolls around. The western highlands of Connecticut don’t get much better than this. Ask any local—the Mattatuck Trail from the Grey section of Waterbury to the Wigwam Reservoir in Morris is one hike you don’t want to miss. At the very least, it’s a good place to start.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

11. Lake Taghkanic State Park

100%

(4)

86 sites · Copake Lake, New York

Lake Taghkanic is a great place for both summer and winter stays, with plenty of tent campsites as well as cabins and cottages, and a variety of activities to do year round. For winter folks, there's cross-country skiing and snowmobile trails, as well as ice skating and ice fishing areas, and plenty of fire pits to warm those chilly bones. For summer lovin', there are two beaches, so if someone kicks sand in your potato salad (accidentally, of course), you can just go to another beach and pretend like it never happened. The only sleeping quarters that are on the water are some of the cottages in the West End Cottage Area, so if you're planning on playing Beach Party Bingo, plan accordingly or be willing to walk a bit from your tent or cabin.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

12. Kettletown State Park

100%

(2)

61 sites · Heritage Village, Connecticut

Summers get hot in the northeast. And muggy. We’re sweating just thinking about it. When it’s mid-July and Connecticut is threatening to burst into flames, Kettletown State Park is where people go to cool off.The refreshing waters of the Housatonic River and Lake Zoar are guaranteed to lower your body temperature and restore your energy levels. The rest of the park that isn’t water is heavily wooded, providing lots of welcome shade. Shoot, you could even go for a hike and not worry about overheating. It’s the perfect summer getaway from summer, if that makes sense. Don’t think about it too much, just go.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

13. American Legion and Peoples State Forests

100%

(1)

34 sites · Winsted, Connecticut

Tree huggers unite! This is the promised land. Consisting of two separate forests, the wooded bastions of Mother Nature rise tall and strong in these parts. Each tree is beautiful in its own way, but perhaps no trunk is better for squeezing than those in the 200-year old white pine grove in the Whittemore Recreation Area of the Peoples Forest. One can only hug so many trees, however, so it’s a good thing there are lots of other things to do in the American Legion and Peoples State Forests. The trails that wind through these wooded acres will keep hikers on their feet for days on end. And the waters of the wild and scenic West Branch of the Farmington River attracts kayakers and fishers from all over Connecticut and even neighboring states. But if you want to just come and squeeze an oak, no one will fault you.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

14. Beartown State Forest

100%

(4)

12 sites · Housatonic, Massachusetts

Discover the natural allure of Beartown State Forest.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Public campgrounds near Dover Plains

100%

(3)

Macedonia Brook State Park Campground

4.3mi from Dover Plains · 51 sites · Tents, RVs · in Macedonia Brook State Park

Lake Waramaug Campground

10mi from Dover Plains · 76 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Waramaug State Park

Housatonic Meadows State Park Campground

100%

(1)

Housatonic Meadows State Park Campground

12mi from Dover Plains · 61 sites · Tents, RVs · in Housatonic Meadows State Park

nature always wears the color of the spirit - r.w. emerson

90%

(5)

Mills Norrie State Park Campground

20mi from Dover Plains · 55 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mills Norrie State Park

The campsites are comfortable and well maintained.

86%

(14)

Fahnestock State Park Campground

23mi from Dover Plains · 75 sites · Tents, RVs · in Fahnestock State Park

Black Rock State Park Campground

25mi from Dover Plains · 76 sites · Tents, RVs · in Black Rock State Park

100%

(4)

Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground

25mi from Dover Plains · 86 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Taghkanic State Park

100%

(2)

Kettletown State Park Campground

29mi from Dover Plains · 61 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kettletown State Park

100%

(1)

Austin F. Hawes Memorial Campground

32mi from Dover Plains · 34 sites · Tents, RVs · in American Legion and Peoples State Forests

100%

(4)

Beartown Campground

38mi from Dover Plains · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Beartown State Forest

94%

(16)

Kenneth L. Wilson Campground

39mi from Dover Plains · 71 sites · Tents, RVs · in Catskill State Park

100%

(7)

Tolland Campground

39mi from Dover Plains · 88 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tolland State Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Xavier

November 2025

16 ft campervan

1 night at Harbour House

Easy to find, right on the water. Price is right. Not far from the highway.

J

Judy

October 2025

23 ft Class B

With pets

1 night at Harbour House

Easy spot, close to boat ramp and park. Might be some noise at night and spots are close to each other, but fits the bill,

Stacey

October 2025

30 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Harbour House

Nice quiet place for an RV. We have a 31’ RV and had no troubles at all finding the place or parking. We’d definitely try to stay here again in the future.

P

Peju

October 2025

2 nights at Serene Shoreline Retreat Farm House

Dr Ivette’s farm house is cute and very comfortable. She goes over and above to make your stay comfortable. The farm is amazing and interesting. The beach is a few minutes walk. Definitely worth the trip.

L

Linda

October 2025

24 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Harbour House

Felt secure and got a good night’s sleep. Wish our stay had been longer to allow us to see more of the area.

L

Laura

September 2025

25 ft Class B

With pets

1 night at Harbour House

Good place to stay for a night or two… we liked being close to the water and having a place to walk our dogs.

E

Ertis

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to High Peak Meadows

We had a wonderful experience at this campsite! The property is beautiful, peaceful, and well cared for, making it the perfect place to relax and celebrate special moments. The host is incredibly attentive and thoughtful, providing clear guidance to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable stay while also respecting the land. The campsite itself is well maintained, with great amenities that make the stay comfortable while still giving you that true outdoor experience. Our group especially appreciated the spacious setup and the chance to enjoy nature together in such a welcoming environment. We’re grateful for the opportunity to stay here and look forward to returning. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a clean, organized, and enjoyable camping spot!

S

Samantha

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Bare Camping

Very nice, exactly what we were looking for. Not too close to civilization, but also not in the middle of nowhere. Spot was spacious and very cute.

K

Kate

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to High Peak Meadows

There are so many positives about the Scoharie Creekside site! Our family of 4 (2 adults, 2 kids, 1 dog) had a wonderful weekend relaxing, exploring the creek and Roaring Kill Waterfall, and watching our dog enjoy the off leash splendor of the very large and private camp site! During our stay, Max was helpful and polite to us. We appreciated he was close by if we needed something. I don't want to necessarily give a bad review, we had a wonderful time and it's a beautiful location/set up. However, some things that bothered us - 1) At the time of booking, we were surprised with an extra $100 in charges which, after I inquired, turned out to be $25/person/night for "extra person" fees (for anything more than 2 people). There was nothing at all in the listing stating this. After inquiry, the owner adjusted the listing, but did not refund us the charge. I simply can't imagine the extravagance of such a charge if a group of substantial size decides to reserve this site (which is set up beautifully with a ton of flat space for extra tents). With a group of 10 people you'd be paying $200 extra per night?!?! Feels like price gouging to me. 2) The cost of the fire wood is extravagant, and you have no choice but to use the owner's wood. He did allow a discount for us which we appreciated but again, $15 for a plastic tote of wood which last for a 1-2 hour fire is crazy. Ultimately, though we had a great time, we won't return because the cost is too much for what it is.

Andrew AJ

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to High Peak Meadows

Incredible, private, picturesque place to camp with your own meadow to yourself, not to mention all the basics covered for you and a very sweet and helpful host! We stayed in the smaller / less expensive site but are interested in coming back and renting out the larger meadow, maybe with a couple friends.

D

David

August 2025

15 ft campervan

1 night at Harbour House

Great location. Easy access and rt next to town boat launch. Met some locals and watched people load their boats

C

Cathy

August 2025

With pets

3 nights at High Peak Meadows

We had a wonderful experience staying at Schoharie Creekside Tent at High Meadow for a few days. We found it to be a lovely spot, peaceful and quiet, yet our hosts were nearby and responsive if we needed anything. The tent was in good condition and we were grateful for the woodstove on the chilly nights. We enjoyed the hammock located in a nice shady grove of pine trees, and We took advantage of the inner tubes our hosts supplied to float on the creek behind the campsite. Highly recommend!! 😁

Chris

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to High Peak Meadows

We stayed at Schoharie Creek Campsite in August 2025 and our group of seven dads and their kids (8-12 years old) had a perfect camp weekend. The location is fantastic near Tannersville and its restaurants/groceries. The camp site is really special. Very secluded, beautiful views and the Schoharie Creek running through it is a treasure. In August the creek is pretty low but there is a nice deep area about 100 yards long right next to the camp site that is perfect for floating in a tube, exploring and enjoying the afternoon. Being close to other attractions and hiking trails in the area made it easy to leave camp, do some hikes, get a nice lunch at the Hunter Mountain Brewery, reload on some groceries in town and return to camp. The hosts were excellent and take great care of their beautiful property. We loved it and look forward to our next trip.

N

Neil

July 2025

26 ft Class B

1 night at Harbour House

Nice place. Owner was very kind. Would stay here again if I'm in the area.

A

Amberly

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Serene Shoreline Retreat Farm House

It was so wonderful staying at Dr. Ivette’s place - my family and I had a great time! Very cute and comfortable and so convenient to everything. We’ll be back!

S

Suzanne

July 2025

25 ft Class C

2 nights at Harbour House

Harbour House was a great find. Right off the 95. Rob let us know about the area. There is a nice bike route/walk on the water and a new outdoor restaurant and creamery, Riva, that just opened in the route. Walkable and very nice. We also sat in the patio for our morning coffee that overlooks the harbor. We would return and recommend Harbor House FYI: there is a Dump Station at I91 South Bound, Wallingford Rest Area https://maps.app.goo.gl/omAp4ijQXfjzsWC7A?g_st=ipc

e

eric

July 2025

3 nights at Serene Shoreline Retreat Farm House

Wonderful trip! Made for a relaxing get-away. Dr Ivette was very hospitable

S

Suzanne

July 2025

25 ft Class C

1 night at Harbour House

Harbour House was a great find. It’s not easy finding spots off the interstate. We needed a spot on our way to NYC and this worked out well. We added two more nights. As noted, it is right next door to the public boat launch, but city maintenance keeps it cleaned up. Also the police monitor it on a regular basis. We would recommend Zuppardi’s Apizza. A local spot. We enjoyed it. We would come again.

Y

Yuriy

July 2025

Tent

2 nights at Bare Camping

Just returned from Bare Camp, - what a wonderful escape! The place is quiet, peaceful, and has a beautifully archaic charm. Perfect spot to unwind and reconnect with nature. Definitely recommend it for anyone and planning to come back again!

L

Laura

June 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to High Peak Meadows

The property is beautiful. Mark was helpful and had everything and more ready to go for us upon arrival. The water was refreshing and the tubes to float with were much appreciated! Everything was as listed/pictured and very clean. This time of year is tick season - we did encounter ticks but came prepared, I wouldn’t let it deter you. I’d highly recommend this spot to anyone, it’s worth a visit. Very toddler friendly too, just noting for others that the water at the one site was a bit of a steeper narrow path towards the water, but still very accessible! Thank you for sharing this spot with us to enjoy!