Know Before You Go...
More Info
Pet Policy
A maximum of two pets are allowed in campsites and day use areas unless prohibited by sign or directive. Pets are to be supervised at all times and either be crated or on a leash not more than 6-feet in length. Proof of rabies inoculation shall be produced if requested by staff. Pets are not permitted in playgrounds, buildings, golf courses, boardwalks, pools and spray-grounds or guarded beaches (this does not apply to service animals).
Fishing
Fishing
is prohibited at the Emma Treadwell Nature Center. Patrons
can access fishing down the road at the DEC boat launch located on Thompsons
Lake Road
Thompson's Lake Campground, nestled in the mountains just four miles from the Helderberg Escarpment, is a popular camping ground and recreation area. Conveniently located within
Thacher State Park, this campground offers 140 wooded campsites and is comprised of a sandy beach, mixed hardwood and conifer forests, limestone outcroppings and open fields. Recreational opportunities include a volleyball court, horseshoe pits, a playing field, swingsets, carry-in boat access, canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards, fishing areas, and nature trails. Interpretive and recreational programs are offered for campers throughout the summer. During the winter, visitors can cross-country ski and ice fish.
The Emma Treadwell Thacher Center is located on Thompson's Lake next to the campground and is accessible to campers. The center opened in July 2001 and offers exhibits, interactive displays, trails for hiking and skiing, and educational programs.
A boat launch site is available and is carry in only.
Current Water Quality - Beach Results
PLEASE NOTE: Generators may be used from 9:00 am to 11:00 am and 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. If a generator is deemed unreasonably loud by staff, use may be limited or prohibited.
Pet Policy: A maximum of two pets are allowed in campsites and day use areas unless prohibited by sign or directive. Pets are to be supervised at all times and either be crated or on a leash not more than 6-feet in length. Proof of rabies inoculation shall be produced if requested by staff. Pets are not permitted in playgrounds, buildings, golf courses, boardwalks, pools and spray-grounds or guarded beaches (this does not apply to service animals).
Hours of Operation
- Park is open for day use year round.
-
- 2024 Camping Season: A Loop opens 5/3 and B Loop will open 5/24
-
2024 Swimming:
5/25 - 6/16, Weekends Only, 10:00am - 5:45pm
6/22 - 9/2, Daily, 10:00am - 5:45pm
-
Fees & Rates
Most New York State Parks charge a vehicle use fee to enter the facility. Fees vary by location and season. A list of entry fees and other park use fees is available below. For fees not listed or to verify information, please contact the park directly.
The easy-to-use Empire Pass card is $80- and your key to all-season enjoyment with unlimited day-use entry at most facilities operated by State Parks and the State Dept. of Environmental Conservation including forests, beaches, trails and more. Purchase online or contact your favorite park for more information.
Learn more about our Admission Programs including the Empire Pass.
Maps
New! Download this park's digital map to your iOS Apple and Android device.
Firewood source maps show a 50-mile radius from which untreated firewood may be moved to this campground. For more information see firewood restrictions.
Drop-in Play Time
Thursday, March 28, 2024 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
The
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center offers many self-guided opportunities for
little hands to explore! Dig for fossils in the kinetic sand table, build a
beaver dam in the stream table, or roast a pretend marshmallow on the plush
campfire with some new friends. The Nature Center is open Tuesday-Sunday from
9:00am to 4:00pm. No
registration is required. Meet
at the Nature Center. For
children ages 0-5 and their caregivers.
Line and Wash a Different Way
Sunday, April 14, 2024 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
Practice watercolor techniques as you paint wildflowers with professional artist Diane Steele. $20 per person, cash payable at the time of the program. Meet at the Nature Center. All skill levels. Ages 18+. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800. Meet at the Nature Center.
Registration: Required
Drop-in Feeder Watch
Tuesday, April 16, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
Stop by to see which
birds are enjoying our feeders! An educator will be on hand to answer any
questions you may have about native birds, bird feeders, and FeederWatch—a
citizen science initiative that allows you to contribute to real-life research
projects. No registration
required. Meet at the Nature
Center.
Back From the Brink: Bald Eagles
Saturday, April 20, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
How did America's
national symbol almost disappear? Learn about the history of Bald Eagles on an
easy 1-mile hike through prime eagle habitat. We'll observe an active eagle
nest and, if we're lucky, see young bald eagles with their parents! Registration required.
Call 518-872-0800. Meet at the Nature
Center. Ages 8 and up.
Registration: Required