Lake Taghkanic FAQ
Quick answers to the questions people ask most about Lake Taghkanic State Park, drawn from New York State Parks and NYSDEC. The park is open 8 a.m. to sunset year round, charges $10 per vehicle in summer, swims at the West Beach when lifeguards are on duty, and rents campsites, cabins and cottages from mid-May to late October.
Where to Read More
Each answer below comes from the page that covers the topic in full: hours and fees, West Beach, camping, cabins and cottages, boating, fishing, hiking, winter and rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to go to Lake Taghkanic State Park?
$10 per vehicle when the fee is collected: weekends and holidays from May 23 to June 28 and daily from June 29 to September 7 in 2026. An $80 Empire Pass covers it.
What are the hours at Lake Taghkanic State Park?
8 a.m. to sunset, every day of the year.
Can you swim at Lake Taghkanic?
Yes, at the West Beach when lifeguards are on duty: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends and holidays from May 23 to June 28, then 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily from June 29 to September 7 (2026).
Is the East Beach open?
No. State Parks lists the East Beach as closed.
Are dogs allowed at Lake Taghkanic State Park?
Yes, leashed (6 feet maximum) on marked trails, roads, parking lots and campsites. Not on the beach, in playgrounds, picnic areas, cabins or cottages.
How much is camping at Lake Taghkanic?
$17 to $24 a night for 2026, plus a $7.25 booking fee and $5 a night for non-New York residents.
How much are the cabins at Lake Taghkanic?
Cabins are $412 to $700 a week. Cottages are $110 to $157 a night, and full-service cottages $180 to $195 a night.
How do I reserve a campsite or cabin at Lake Taghkanic?
Through ReserveAmerica online or at 1-800-456-CAMP (2267), up to nine months ahead.
Can you rent boats at Lake Taghkanic?
Yes. The boat house rents rowboats, kayaks, paddleboats and canoes in season.
Are motorboats allowed on Lake Taghkanic?
No gas motors. Electric motors only, and every boat needs a park permit ($30 a season, $10 a week).
What fish are in Lake Taghkanic?
Largemouth and smallmouth bass, chain pickerel, crappie, perch, bluegill, pumpkinseed, rock bass and brown bullhead, among others (NYSDEC).
Do I need a fishing licence?
Yes, if you are 16 or older: a New York State freshwater fishing licence.
Is there hiking at Lake Taghkanic?
Yes. The 2025 State Parks map shows 12 trails, about 13.3 miles in all; the longest is the 4.96-mile Lakeview Trail South.
Can you ice fish or skate at Lake Taghkanic?
Only when the park says conditions are appropriate. Call (518) 851-3631 to check ice thickness.
Which entrance should I use?
Cars can use the Taconic Parkway entrance. RVs, trailers, campers and buses must use the Route 82 entrance.
Is Lake Taghkanic a carry-in, carry-out park?
Yes. Take home everything you bring.