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Thatcher/Thompson's Lake
Overview
Thompson’s Lake Campground is a quintessential New York State destination located within the expansive **John Boyd Thacher State Park**. This facility offers a serene escape for RVers looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Helderberg Escarpment. Unlike a busy highway stop, this park emphasizes a **tranquil, wooded atmosphere** where the sounds of the forest take center stage. It serves as a peaceful basecamp for those wanting to explore the unique geological history and recreational opportunities of the Capital Region.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in East Berne, NY, the park sits atop a high limestone plateau that provides a dramatic landscape. The surrounding area is characterized by **dense hardwood forests** and the cool waters of Thompson’s Lake. Visitors are treated to a landscape shaped by millions of years of geological activity, featuring deep valleys and rugged cliffs. Its proximity to Albany makes it an accessible getaway for locals and travelers alike, offering a **mountainous retreat** just a short drive from the state capital.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground features 140 spacious sites, many of which can accommodate RVs of various sizes. Essential facilities include **hot showers and flush toilets**, ensuring a comfortable stay despite the rustic setting. For recreation, the park offers a **private sandy beach** with swimming access, volleyball courts, and a playground. There is also a dumping station available for self-contained rigs. The inclusion of the Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center nearby adds an educational layer to the camping experience, perfect for curious travelers.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
A highlight of any visit is the **Indian Ladder Trail**, where hikers can walk beneath towering limestone cliffs and cascading waterfalls. For thrill-seekers, the nearby adventure park offers ziplining and ropes courses. Thompson’s Lake is ideal for **non-motorized boating and fishing**, providing a calm environment for kayaks and canoes. Nature enthusiasts will also appreciate the various overlook points that offer panoramic views of the Hudson-Mohawk Valley and the Adirondack Mountains in the distance.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for **traditional camping enthusiasts** who prefer natural scenery over high-end resort amenities. It is a fantastic choice for families seeking a summer beach vacation or hikers looking to explore New York’s distinct terrain. Because the sites offer a more secluded, quiet vibe, it is perfectly suited for **nature photographers and birdwatchers** wanting to stay close to the action of the escarpment without sacrificing the peacefulness of the deep wilderness.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
User Reviews
Thomas Hamilton
Nice camp ground on Lake Thompson. Smaller sized sites with no electricity. Some of the sites have direct access to the lake to dump in you kayak. There is a boat ramp on the end of the lake. Saw a bald eagle in the trees at the other end of the lake.
Amelie Li
A very quiet park. You can see many fish playing in the water while walking by the lake. On the way to the camp, we met an Amish family selling fruits, vegetables and eggs. They were cheap and fresh. If you happen to be on the way, you should go and take a look
Nadia Gonzalez
Good little beach to take a dip in. When we pulled up to the little box office before we get into the park the girl that was working it just stared at us until we said hi, stared at us again and then i told her we’re going to the beach. She said $7 then just stared at me still sitting down and i had to get out of my car to give her my payment. Not a crazy big deal but I’ve never been to a park where I’m the one getting out of my car when I just roll through after paying. Also the lifeguards close early and i could tell they were itching to leave, telling people false times when they showed up an hour before close. I heard them say multiple different closing times to different people. 8/6/25
Daniel Jones
A great place to take the family to camp with a beach that has the most attentive, fit, patient lifeguards in the business. You can fish, rent kayaks and SUPs. Buy wood, ice, and hot clean showers. All you need for a relaxing getaway 20 minutes outside of Albany in the Helderbergs. Make reservations far in advance if you like a specific spot.
Marilyn Sanford
We rented an RV from Alpine Haus in Amsterdam NY and drove to the campground. We brought our 2 granddaughters and we all had a vacation to remember. Everyone that works there is friendly and helpful. The campground is clean and the sites are large and private. Rules are enforced and I felt safe and relaxed. The lake is beautiful whether you want to swim, fish, or just watch the waves roll in and the bald eagle soaring above.