It was our youngest’s birthday and we wanted to go camping. Nothing was really popping until we happened upon this beautiful looking Lake Taghkanic (pronounced Taconic) State Park. It had campsites, cabins and reeeeeeeaaaaallllly nice cottages on a lake with a man-made beach. Since we had recently done tent camping and it was September, we thought we’d get an upgrade. As the lakefront was completely booked up, we opted for the lesser cabins.
Lake Taghkanic is in Columbia County, New York — about two hours from New York City, depending on traffic which I did not love. However, it’s far enough to feel like an escape, but close enough that you’re not spending half your weekend just driving.
Driving in via the Taconic State Parkway is pretty straightforward, filled with a lovely landscape of rolling hills, wooded areas, and pastures. There were tons more wind turbine sightings than I thought I would see.
Lake Taghkanic offers multiple lodging/camping options. You can pitch a tent, bring a trailer, stay in rustic cabins, or rent cottages. The cabins are in the woods on the east end, separated from the main camping area; cottages are along the west end, closer to the lake shore. Some cottages are more “full-service” than others (kitchen amenities, hot water, heat or fireplace in some).
Our cabin was not what I was expecting but things have changed since my Boy Scout days sleeping in lean-tos. Outside was a picnic table and firepit. There was the enclosed porch with two chairs and then the main area. There was a fireplace, a dining table for six, 2 bedrooms, 1 toilet and a kitchen. The New Yorker in me did the mental calculation of what this unit would go for in the heart of Manhattan.
Once we got settled in, we decided that we needed some relaxation so packed a lunch and drove over to the lake. The lake is clean, well-maintained, and gorgeous, especially in early morning when the water is still. Swimming off the designated beach area is pleasant, so do stick to the flagged/swim-area on the beaches for safety. The lifeguard will embarrass you if you don't. Boat rentals are available, as well, but we just enjoyed the sand and the sun.
There are several hiking and walking trails. They loop throughout the vast acreage of the state park with many surprising turns so stay on your path. In autumn, the fall foliage adds another layer to the exploration. The kids also enjoyed the freedom of walking on their own and spotting wild animals that didn’t scare them.
Back at the cabin, we realized how lucky we were to be right across the path from the bathrooms/showers. The rooms are well maintained most of the time; hot water and good pressure were reliable plus you have the space all to yourself.
There’s also camp store for the basics open at limited hours where you can pick up: firewood, ice, snacks, etc. If you forget something, chances are you can pick it up. Stop there first when you arrive to see what they have. Prices are reasonable and folks are friendly.
The park lifeguards are on the beach during peak season. There are also picnic areas, playgrounds, and fields. A mixed option for the camping purists as well as the casual camper. I forgot, there’s also a recreation hall in the park. Word of caution, the beach and picnic areas get very busy on summer holiday weekends.
Camping opportunities are generally available from mid-May through late October. Outside that, lodging may be limited or closed. Also, in early spring or late fall, temperatures drop, and some services might not be fully staffed.
Practical Tips
Lake Taghkanic State Park, nestled next to Lake Taghkanic in the rolling hills and lush forests of Columbia County, offers a wonderful variety of recreational activities. The park has tent and trailer campsites and cabin and cottage camping facilities, two beaches, picnic grounds and a boat launch. In addition, the park has hiking, biking, cross-country ski and snowmobile trails. Ice skating and ice fishing are permitted when conditions are appropriate.
The park features two man-made beaches, boat launch sites, rowboat, paddleboat and kayak rentals, cabins, campsites, picnic areas, playgrounds, playing fields, pavilion, recreation hall and showers. Four vacation rental cottages offer the amenities of home.
Based on what we saw:
- Book early, especially cabins and cottages
- Bring good bug protection— especially in the warmer weather.
- Pack for varied conditions— early mornings and nighttime get brisk; pack a sweater or windbreaker to cover up.
- Be ready to walk a bit— getting to showers, store, or lake access may involve some walking. If you don’t want to drive, bringing a wagon helps.
- Check cabin/cottage amenities ahead of arrival— avoid surprises.
Lake Taghkanic State Park has a little bit for everyone. So relax by a campfire, make some s’mores and stare at the stars. It’s built for singles, families, groups, city folk, or anyone wanting an outdoor fix without going deep into remote territory. This park caters to all. It has enough amenities to make things comfortable, enough nature to make things feel special. Would I return? Yes — I’d try a cottage for part of the stay so I could enjoy the lakefront more directly. Book it today and enjoy.
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