The best camping near Schodack Island State Park

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

Discover the natural splendor of Schodack Island State Park.  

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Community favorites near Schodack Island State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Schodack Island State Park

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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" list 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. ***Coming spring/summer of 2025 we will be launching the official opening of our food truck onsite - come and enjoy a taco during your stay!
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$90
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Sacred Waterfall & Quiet Camping

46 sites · Lodging25 acres · Middleburgh, NY
NOTE: THIS IS A QUIET CAMPING AREA for reconnecting with nature. Not suitable for parties or loud groups. Kahonrakén:ra, The White Spiral Waterfall, is a world unto itself. For generations, the majestic waterfall has been revered for its spectacular beauty and power. 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 Ioskóhare, the Schoharie Valley. 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. There are two tiny cabins on the property. 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. One cabin is in the forest, just beyond a grass circle clearing. The other is down the hill through a wildflower grove. Both sites have extra space to set up a tent if needed. The Forest Cabin is insulated with hemp, has electric lights and outlets, is bigger inside with a work desk, has Anderson crank out windows, has a bigger deck, and has two twin mattresses under the bed if you need them. The Wildflower Cabin is a bit deeper in the forest, a little smaller, uninsulated with two walls of old-school wood-pane windows that open out to the forest completely, one twin mattress under the bed and a powerstrip for light electric use. Both sites have private fire pits, solar shower stalls, fans for cooling and an oil filled electric heater for chilly nights. We do not allow partying. There is a profound healing process happening at the waterfall. At the request of the original caretakers, we ask that you to respect the sacredness of this land. Thank you! It's about a 10 minute hike down the gorge to the waterfall from the campsites. 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. In the evening, make a campfire at your fire pit and fall asleep under the stars listening to the waterfall and the river below. Be aware that the hike is steep and appropriate footwear is required. 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 at the gas station on your way in. 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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$102
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Upper Shire Campsites Hudson Valley

7 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. It is located in Columbia County near the Massachusetts and New York border. 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 and our new off-grid double shower shack with hot and cold water on demand. This place has 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 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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$76.50
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Wyomanock Farm

32 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents75 acres · Stephentown, NY
PLEASE Note! All water will be shut off after October 13 until the 2025 season. Our 75 acres is a wonderful, diverse mix of habitat, harmoniously integrated with our small farm. This land was the homestead of the very first caucasian settler of the area, John Wiley, in 1787. Before that, it was the land of the Mahican native Americans. They named it "valley of the butternut trees", or Wyomanock. The Wyomanock Creek is the backbone of this little valley. Beaver have dammed the creek at several points to create ponds and other wetland features that support a diversity of wildlife including otter, moose and a myriad of birds, from osprey to herons. This sanctuary is host to many uncommon native plants and plant communities. We would love to share it with you! Your host, Thom, invites you to property to explore 75 acres of meadows, woods and water. Choose one of several sites either in the woods or open areas. You are also free to use our outdoor solar shower or take a dip in the cold pond! Our location is convenient to the Berkshire Mountains, state parks, hiking and other attractions, including Ramble Wild tree to tree adventures and Jiminy Peak. There are a few miles of rail trail access just down the road.
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$30
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Balsam Gleann Meadows

3 sites · RVs, Tents400 acres · Big Indian, NY
Come enjoy over 5 generations of our families property stewardship, on 370 acres of forested uplands with 30 acres of lowland meadows. We have 3 Rustic camp areas, with area # 3 offering pitched Glamping Tent with accommodations. Please bring your own bedding, towels etc. There is no cell service on or close to the property, so save or print your maps before you leave and follow the white oval signs to the campsite. 1.1 miles of upper Esopus Creek awaits visitors for fishing native Brook Trout, hiking, swimming and sunbathing. We have two new bathrooms and a spring feed gravity water system, feeding a wash station and two showers. 3 wash stations are available with one @ showers, one @ kitchen and one @ rest rooms. A large kitchen area, with a 16' long counter and a picnic table is available by the fire pits as well. Delight in your visit at Balsam Gleann Meadows
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$75
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Magic Forest Farm

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents225 acres · Coeymans Hollow, NY
**Please confirm you have read our property description and rules before booking** 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 an accelerating pace. It is important for us to teach the next generation, there is an alternative. We produce much of our own food. We have friendly goats, chickens, ducks, peacocks, donkeys and horses the guests can pet and feed. There are no swimming holes on our property, but many waterfalls and swimming spots within a short drive (see list below). 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. Nearby Hiking Spots: Holt Preserve - 1.2 miles away Thatcher State Park- 9.4 miles Huyck Preserve- 11 miles Hannacroix Creek Preserrve- 8.4 miles Nearby Swimming Spots: Hannacroix Creek Preserve- 8.4 miles Kaaterskill Falls- 24 miles Thompsons Lake- 10 miles North-South Lake- 24 miles Parking: multiple car parking are available at each site.
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$40
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Upper Esopus Creekside Camp

3 sites · Tents100 acres · Big Indian, NY
Primitive Camp on the Esopus Creek in the Big Indian-Oliverea Valley surrounded by seven 3500' Catskill High Peaks including Slide Mountain, the tallest in the Catskills. Our PRIVATE camp (no other campers) is situated on 100 acres of land in the middle of the Catskill State Park. We are the closest HipCamp site to Slide Mountain, the Catskills tallest peak at 4180 feet. A perfect base camp for some of the best hiking in the Catskills, the site is bordered by Forever Wild Forest and is minutes from the trailheads to Balsam, Giant Ledge, Panther, Big Indian, Slide Mountain and dozens more peaks within 30 minutes or so away. Our drive up camp has a 4-6 person prospector type tent, a 10X12 covered tent platform, several individual tent sites with private fire rings, as well as a bunkhouse and a leanto for day use. The camp table and cook pit are covered from the elements. The main tent includes a wood burning stove, folding card table and seating for 4 and bunk bed with 4" thick self-inflating Therm-a-rest MondoKing 3D XXL Queen sized insulated mats for luxurious comfort. Open Network WiFi (no UN/PW needed) is available in front of hosts house a short woods walk away. Seasoned bundled 16" firewood is available by honor box cash payment on Brown rd across the camp entry road. Rules: 'Almost' anything goes. Learn about 'pack-in pack-out/leave no trace camping' and the 'leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but pictures' motto. Due to local laws, no music or noise louder than 60 decibels is allowed which is about as loud as conversation with 20 people in a restaurant, an office of 20 people speaking or being on the phone, background music typically heard in restaurants and public spaces, an air conditioning unit at 100 feet. Our site is to be best enjoyed for the sounds that do exist naturally, the many birds singing their song, the babbling Esopus Creek, the rustling leaves on the trees. Ask questions, I will always answer anything about camping and am thrilled to share my knowledge.
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$130
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The best camping near Schodack Island State Park guide

Overview

About

Embark on an adventure at Schodack Island State Park, where the Hudson River's embrace offers a sanctuary for both wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With 66 campsites nestled amid a rich tapestry of ecological diversity, visitors can revel in hiking, boating, and bird-watching. The park's trails invite you to explore scenic vistas, while the kayak launch beckons you to glide through tranquil waters.

Notable campgrounds

  • Secluded Riverside Campsites - Enjoy the serene sounds of the Hudson River as you camp amid the lush greenery.
  • Forest Canopy Campsites - Set up your tent under a canopy of cottonwoods, home to the park's avian residents.
  • Open Meadow Campsites - Bask in the open skies and starry nights at these spacious campsites.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early to secure your spot, especially for peak summer weekends when the park's popularity soars.
  • Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for a quieter experience and easier reservation opportunities.
  • Keep an eye on cancellation policies and last-minute availability for unexpected openings.
  • Explore nearby camping options if the park is fully booked, ensuring you don't miss out on the region's beauty.

When to go

The park's gates are open from dawn to dusk year-round, with camping available from May to November. The best time to visit is during the fall for vibrant foliage or spring for mild weather and blooming wildflowers. Winter offers a peaceful retreat, though some amenities may be limited.

Know before you go

  • Check tide charts before boating on the Hudson River or Schodack Creek to ensure safe and enjoyable navigation.
  • Adhere to the pet policy, keeping pets leashed and providing proof of rabies vaccination if requested.
  • Prepare for your visit by downloading the park's digital map to your mobile device for easy navigation.
  • Vehicle entrance fees apply from mid-April to mid-October, with an Empire Pass available for all-season access.
  • For bird enthusiasts, the park is a designated Bird Conservation Area, so bring your binoculars and birding checklist.

Top points of interest near Schodack Island State Park

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