Taconic State Park is located along 16 miles of the Taconic Mountain Range, sharing a border with Massachusetts and Connecticut. Two developed areas, Copake Falls and Rudd Pond, offer an extensive trail system with terrain that varies from easy to challenging, offering spectacular views.

The extensive campground at Copake Falls has sites to accommodate campers seeking a more rustic experience, as well as those seeking a more "home-like" experience. 

There are plenty of activities for campers, as well as day visitors to enjoy in the oldest State Park in the Taconic Region. Bike or stroll along the Harlem Valley Rail Trail, hike to Bash Bish Falls, just over the Massachusetts border, or up Brace Mountain, the highest point in Dutchess County. Stop at the newly created Copake Iron Works Museum to learn about the iron industry at the former site of Copake Iron Works, established in 1845. In addition to the history offered by the Iron Works Museum, visitors can take a ride on the Pomeroy Railroad which offers an immersive interpretive experience that replicates the narrow-gauge railroad that transported iron ore from the nearby mine (now known as the Ore Pit Swimming Pond) to the blast furnace at the Copake Iron Works during the 19th Century. Copake Falls offers swimming opportunities at a designated swimming area with a dock in Ore Pit Pond and at the adjacent kiddie pool. The small but deep Ore Pit Pond is a popular destination due to its excellent water quality. Swimming is permitted when lifeguards are on duty-- floatation devices are not allowed. Freshwater fishing enthusiasts will delight in hooking brown trout and other fish in the Bash Bish Brook or rainbow trout in the old iron ore mine pit.

The fun doesn't end in wintertime. There are great trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, as well as 5 miles of snowmobile trails.

In season deer and bear hunting (rifle/shotgun/bow), turkey hunting (bow/shotgun), squirrel, fox, and ruffed grouse hunting are permitted. Small game season begins November 1st. A New York State hunting license is required. Please be aware that Taconic State Park property encompasses land in both Columbia and Dutchess Counties. Please adhere to the appropriate regulations set forth by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. The use of handguns is not permitted in any state parks. No youth hunts.