The Hudson Valley is a paradise for nature lovers and those who love wildlife. If you are planning a camping trip in the Hudson Valley, Jellystone Park™ Lazy River, in Gardiner is the perfect spot to see beautiful wildlife, from blue jays to eastern spadefoot toads! The campground and surrounding areas are the home to so much wildlife found in New York making it the perfect spot for wildlife lovers to visit! 

History of Gardiner

Gardiner, New York, nestled in the Hudson Valley, provides a rich array of wildlife, thanks to its diverse habitats and protected natural areas. With scenic natural wonders such as the Hudson River, Shawangunk Ridge, and Catskill Mountains there are so many picturesque places to see wildlife. Here's an overview of what you might encounter in and around Gardiner.

Mammals

From white-tailed deer grazing in open fields to the occasional sighting of black bears in the dense forests, you’ll want to keep an eye out for all kinds of wildlife during your Hudson Valley camping adventure. Coyotes may be heard howling at night, while bobcats roam the wooded areas, rarely making an appearance. Smaller mammals like skunks, rabbits, and various rodents also scurry around, adding to the region’s rich biodiversity. These creatures are all part of the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley and add to the rich outdoors experience!

Birds

If you’re camping at Jellystone Park™ Lazy RIver, don’t forget to pack your binoculars for an exciting birdwatching adventure! The Hudson Valley is home to a diverse range of bird species, and surrounding areas have documented 277 bird species, making it a great destination for spotting colorful feathers flying around. Keep an ear out for the soft hums of Doves or the loud calls of Blue Jays. The bright yellow plumage of American Goldfinches during the breeding season makes them easy to spot, while the tiny Black-capped Chickadees fly through the trees with their signature black caps. Also, listen for the rhythmic tapping of Downy Woodpeckers as they search for insects in tree bark. Birdwatching is a fun and educational activity for all ages, so challenge your family to see who can spot the most species during your camping trip!

Amphibians

When camping in the Hudson Valley, you'll have the opportunity to encounter a variety of amphibians and reptiles native to the region - thanks to our beautiful riverfront campground in New York! You'll get a chance to see Eastern Spadefoot Toads - these rare toads are primarily found in the Hudson River Valley, including areas around Gardiner. They prefer habitats with loose, sandy soils for burrowing and are often active after heavy rains. Also keep an eye out for the tiny Jefferson Salamanders, typically found in moist, wooded areas. So if you ever have a rainy camping day, look around for some animals that may have come out to play! 

Reptiles

Similar to amphibians, the reptiles of New York like to be by bodies of water and come out more after light rains or quick storms. The Eastern Box Turtle can be found here and is recognizable by their domed shaped shells; these turtles are commonly seen in forest and meadows. With so many different types of reptiles to see when camping in the Hudson Valley you can always have your eyes ready to see something new!

Notable Natural Area

There is so much unique and beautiful wildlife in this area because of the well maintained and respected natural areas that the Hudson Valley has to offer to these animals. Several protected areas near Gardiner offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Just a short drive away from the campground you’ll find the beautiful Mohonk Preserve encompassing over 8,000 acres of cliffs, forests, fields, ponds, and streams, it's home to more than 1,400 plant and animal species, including the peregrine falcon and Jefferson salamander. Also right around the corner is Wallkill Valley Rail Trail! This 22-mile trail passes through diverse habitats, where visitors might observe tracks of bears, deer, coyotes, bobcats, skunks, and rabbits. Bird species such as mourning doves, blue jays, and goldfinches.

Jellystone Park™ Lazy River in Gardiner, New York, offers a unique blend of comfort and adventure, making it an ideal destination for families seeking memorable experiences. The park's expansive 100-acre grounds are filled with diverse wildlife that allow you to immerse yourself in the regional natural beauty. To respect local wildlife, lean towards caution near bodies of water and natural brush, as some wildlife can be dangerous and should be left undisturbed. Whether you're seeking a relaxing retreat or an action-packed adventure, Jellystone Park™ at Lazy River is here for all. We invite you to experience the best of Hudson Valley camping and wildlife at our riverfront campground in New York! Create lasting memories with your loved ones amidst the beauty of nature. Book your stay with us today and embark on an unforgettable journey!