Thompsons Lake Campground At Thacher State Park
00 review68 Thompson's Lake Rd, EAST BERNE, New York, 12059, United States
Thompsons Lake Campground At Thacher State Park
$20.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary based on site type and duration of stay. $60 for three nights of camping was reported by a user review. Day-use fee for non-campers is $7 for beach and trails access.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of nature, Thompson's Lake Campground beckons families seeking authentic outdoor adventures without sacrificing comfort. Imagine waking up in your wooded campsite to the sound of birds chirping, then spending your day lounging on the sandy beach or paddling across crystal-clear waters. This cherished getaway strips camping down to its essence—no electrical distractions, just pure connection with nature. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring forest trails, or gliding through snow-covered paths on cross-country skis, Thompson's Lake delivers year-round outdoor magic with impeccably maintained facilities and pristine restrooms that make roughing it feel remarkably civilized.
Thompson's Lake Campground offers traditional campsites suitable for tents and RVs, but there are no electricity, water, or sewer hookups. It is family-friendly, with options catering to both small and large groups.
Historical SignificancePerched at the edge of the magnificent Helderberg Escarpment, Thompson's Lake Campground shares its backyard with the renowned Thacher State Park. This remarkable location places campers at the crossroads of geological wonder and ecological diversity, where ancient limestone cliffs tell stories millions of years in the making. The area's rich natural heritage has long attracted scientists, nature enthusiasts, and families who recognize this special corner of New York as a living classroom and recreational treasure.
Weather and SeasonsThompson's Lake transforms with each passing season, offering distinct adventures throughout the year. Summer bathes the campground in golden warmth, creating perfect conditions for lazy beach days and sunset kayak excursions. As autumn arrives, the surrounding forests explode in a symphony of reds, oranges, and golds, while crisp air invigorates morning hikes. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, turning trails into cross-country skiing wonderlands and the frozen lake into an ice fishing paradise. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and mild temperatures ideal for exploration, making every visit a unique seasonal experience.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery, the campground's position along the Helderberg Escarpment promises varied terrain and scenic vantage points that enhance every outdoor adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryThompson's Lake itself serves as the campground's sparkling centerpiece—a pristine jewel of clean, inviting water that mirrors the sky and surrounding forest canopy. Mixed hardwood and conifer forests create a living tapestry of greens that shift with the seasons, providing both shade and shelter for campers and wildlife alike. A beautiful stretch of public shoreline invites leisurely strolls where you can skip stones, search for wildlife tracks, or simply pause to absorb the tranquil scenery that makes this destination so beloved by returning families.
Geological RegionThe dramatic Helderberg Escarpment defines this landscape with its ancient limestone cliffs and outcroppings that rise like natural monuments from the earth. This geological marvel creates a diverse ecosystem where mixed hardwood and conifer forests thrive alongside open meadows, offering campers a front-row seat to millions of years of Earth's history. The varied terrain provides endless opportunities for exploration, from fossil hunting along limestone formations to discovering hidden groves where sunlight filters through towering trees.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes handicap access, and the nature center and trails appear to be accessible.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as generously sized, with some specifically noted as extra-large by reviewers.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy at campsites varies; some sites are secluded, while others are close together. One review stated, "Some sites are pretty close, others are a nice distance apart."
Total Campsites100 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Booking online was worthwhile to find a site that matched our preferences." Some campsites are closer to amenities like restrooms or the beach.
Best CampsitesSite 93 was highly recommended for proximity to water fill stations and bathrooms.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Campers arriving after 9 PM risk losing reservations.
Check-out
Quiet hours end at 7 AM, suggesting departure should occur after this time.
Stay Limit
Amaximum of 14 continuous nights allowed per reservation. After staying 14 nights, campers must leave for 48 hours before re-registering.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 guests per campsite. Additional vehicles incur fees.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has numbered loops, with sites varying in proximity to lake paths, restrooms, and open fields.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Winter activities include cross-country skiing and ice fishing. Pre-registration for summer reservations recommended.
Reservation PlatformsReserve America for online reservations (pre-registration available two days prior to arrival).
Walk-in Availability"Campers arriving after 9 PM are asked to call the park or risk losing the reservation." No specific details on walk-up site availability provided.
Cancellation Policy"Any reservation with departure dates outside the 9-month maximum window cannot be changed or canceled until 18 days after the reservation was made."
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers numerous recreational activities suitable for families and outdoor enthusiasts. These include water-based activities like swimming, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. There are also ample opportunities for hiking and biking, with access to over 25 miles of trails. Winter activities include cross-country skiing and ice fishing. A nature center provides educational programs and interactive exhibits.
Hiking
Several trails are available, including those at the nearby Thacher State Park. One reviewer mentioned, "There is a nature center with hiking trails adjacent to the campground," and another referred to the "nice system of trails on premises that connects to another larger network."Fishing
Fishing is permitted both from shore and boats. One reviewer noted that many people fish from the shoreline, and others highlighted opportunities for ice fishing during the winter.Swimming
The sandy beach provides a designated swimming area with lifeguards during the summer. However, swimming is not guaranteed as it is subject to water quality and lifeguard availability.Biking
Biking trails are available both within and near the campground, connecting to those in Thacher State Park.Boating
Boating activities include kayak, canoe, and stand-up paddleboard rentals. There is also carry-in boat access for those bringing their own watercraft.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with one camper mentioning the frequent sighting of a bald eagle.Beach activities
Beach activities include swimming, sunbathing, and walking along the lakeshore. However, the beach is described as small and can get crowded during peak times.Cultural and Educational Programs
The nature center offers educational programs and exhibits on the area's geology and biology.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports include kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits available at campsites. Firewood sold at the entrance for $6 per bag.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife encounters including ticks. "Be careful folks if you want to bring kids there." Swimming safety depends on water quality and lifeguard presence.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 63%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 13.7 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
State-run ranger station at the campground with direct contact available via phone (518-872-1674). Nearby Albany provides access to hospitals, police stations, and other emergency services.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak camping season aligns with summer and early fall. Swimming is staffed with lifeguards during peak times.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available throughout the campground. Several reviews noted the cleanliness and maintenance of the campground, which likely extends to these facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on Thompson's Lake with carry-in boat access. "Perfect for kayaking, fishing, and camping."
Common complaintsNoise issues reported during quiet hours and lack of enforcement due to absence of park police. "If you like rap music, partying, and profanity until 1 AM... then this is the campground for you."
HostPark staff reportedly helpful but enforcement of rules during quiet hours inconsistent.
Campground Map
68 Thompson's Lake Rd, EAST BERNE, New York, 12059, United States
Driving directionsThe park is located on Route 157, 18 miles southwest of Albany. "If driving from Albany area, you might pass through the picturesque villages of Altamont or New Scotland." A scenic winding one-lane highway leads to the campground.
Accessible year-round via paved Route 157 southwest of Albany, with scenic but winding one-lane highway sections. Winter conditions may occasionally affect access.Nearby places
Albany (18 miles, approximately 30 minutes), Colonie (approximately 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Firewood ($6/bag) and ice ($2/bag) available at the campground entrance. Fuel and additional supplies accessible at Stewart’s, approximately 8 minutes away by car.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Thompsons Lake Campground At Thacher State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Thompson's Lake Campground are mixed but generally positive. Highlights include the cleanliness of facilities, family-friendly atmosphere, and diverse recreational activities. However, some users raised concerns about the lack of enforcement of quiet hours and poor cell phone reception.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive reviews frequently mention clean bathrooms and showers, the well-maintained beach, and the nature center. Many users appreciated the availability of firewood and ice on-site, as well as the...
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Common Concerns
Common complaints include noise issues due to inadequate enforcement of quiet hours, crowded beach areas during peak times, and the absence of cell phone service.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend arriving early for beach access, especially on hot summer days. Planning campsite selection in advance is also advised for those looking for more privacy or proximity to specific...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with activities like swimming and boating drawing large crowds. However, winter offers unique activities such as skiing and ice fishing. Noise complaints and...
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Camper Quotes
"Bathrooms are super clean with showers at every one," noted one reviewer. Another remarked, "The lake isn't huge but the water is very clean and perfect for swimming and small boats." A user also...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 93 received positive mention for being near water fill stations and bathrooms. Another reviewer appreciated the privacy of their site compared to open fields across from it.
Accessibility Features
Reviews indicate that the campground is accommodating for families and has handicap access, but no specific details on accessibility features were provided.
Pet-Friendly Features
The campground is pet-friendly, with leash rules and a limit of two pets per site. Multiple reviewers praised the pet accommodations, calling it 'dog-friendly' and 'suitable for furry friends.'
Last updated August 10, 2025