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.
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- 2025 Camping Season: A Loop opens 5/2 - 10/13 and B Loop will open 5/23 - 9/1
-
2025 Swimming:
5/23 - 6/19, 10:00am - 5:45pm, Weekends Only
6/23 - 9/1, Daily, 10:00am - 5:45pm, daily
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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.
Knee-High Naturalists
Thursday, March 13, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800
Meets at Hop Field. Explore
the outdoors with our Knee-High Naturalists series! Best suited for children
ages 3-5 accompanied by an adult. Each session will explore a different theme -
activities may include crafts, games, storybook readings, or a kid-friendly
nature walk.
Registration
required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Let's Bird Together!
Friday, March 14, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
Meet at
the Nature Center. All ages. Accessible program.
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 and FeederWatch—a citizen
science initiative that allows you to contribute to real-life research
projects. No registration required.
Pitch in for Parks: Bluebird Box Building
Saturday, March 15, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800
Meet at
the Nature Center. Accessible program. All ages.
Are you
interested in learning more about Project NestWatch, and helping bluebirds?
Come build and paint a bird house. You can take the bird box home or donate it
the park to provide a home for nesting birds. Registration required: Call
518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Annual Nature Art Show
Saturday, March 15, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
Work by
over 50 artists will be on display at the Visitor Center from March 15 to April
4 in the Helderberg Room. A public opening reception will be held on March 15
from 1PM – 3PM; see beautiful nature-themed artwork in a variety of mediums,
enjoy refreshments, meet the artists! This is a free event, drop-ins
welcome, no registration is required. Accessible program. All ages.