Camping near New Milford, New York primarily takes place in mountainous terrain with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,800 feet above sea level. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing from November through March, while summer daytime highs typically reach 75-85°F. Most campgrounds in the region require advance reservations during summer weekends, with cancellation policies varying from 24 hours to 7 days notice.
What to do
Hiking on the Appalachian Trail: Access points near High Point State Park Campground allow day hikers to experience sections of this historic trail. "I stopped at the shelter while hiking the AT in High Point SP. It was raining the entire day and the shelter provided a dry place to take a break. The shelter has the usual facilities, privy, water source (must be filtered), bear box, etc," notes Richard M.
Kayaking and swimming: Wawayanda State Park Campground offers both activities at their lake during summer months. "Clean, access to kayaking/beach/trails. Largely friendly staff and campers," explains M.P. Water activities are typically available from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Animal encounters: Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort features a small petting area with various farm animals. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," shares Faith D. The animals are accessible to all campers, making it especially appealing for families with younger children.
What campers like
Scenic views: Moon Valley Campground offers panoramic vistas from elevated camping spots. "This was a great campsite nestled in the foothills of Northern NJ on the NY border. Small, clean with great views and great location for hiking," explains Bob F. The dome structures provide a unique glamping experience with extraordinary views.
Secluded sites: Stokes State Forest features camping areas tucked away from crowds. "The campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents. Site came with bear proof bin for garbage and fire ring," according to E.M.V. The Steam Mill Camping Area is particularly noted for its remote feel.
Lakeside camping: Multiple campers praise the water access at Lake Ocquittunk in Stokes State Forest. "We stayed at site 11 on Lake Ocquittunk. It was a fair sized site with room for a couple large tents. Site was located on a small hill next to the lake with the road directly in front and water about 50 yards away," shares Josh S. Morning mist rising from the water creates peaceful early morning views.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Beaver Pond Campground and other area campgrounds have strict food storage protocols. "'Welcome to Bear Mountain' grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He is in his ranger hut, checking in the late evening arrivals to the campground," relates Steve W., emphasizing the importance of proper food storage in bear country.
Tent platforms: Many sites throughout the region feature wooden platforms for tent setup. "Spread out. Raised platforms a big plus. The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. You definitely feel like you have your own space and are not camping on top of your neighbor," notes Ethan K. Platforms are particularly valuable during rainy periods.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: From pit toilets to full shower houses, facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. "Bathrooms are spaced out. No running water except for pump founded outside of the bathrooms. Toilets are pump flushed. Showers are only located INSIDE High Point State Park, not throughout the campsites," explains Damia F. about High Point State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers designated play areas for children. "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that," mentions antruze, adding that the campground provides family-friendly amenities while maintaining a peaceful atmosphere.
Beach swimming: Beaver Pond Campground features lifeguard-monitored beach areas. "A stones throw from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint. Free Hot showers in the bathrooms, with plenty of room to change," shares Megan B. Swimming areas typically open late May through early September.
Weekend activities: Several campgrounds organize family events during peak season. "Great location and nice, full hook-up sites. Back-in and pull through sites and can accommodate large rigs," notes Dave S. about Black Bear RV Park. Call ahead to verify current activity schedules, as these change seasonally.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: Black Bear RV Park provides complete services for larger vehicles. "Great location and nice, full hook-up sites. Back-in and pull through sites and can accommodate large rigs. A little expensive but everything is included," says Dave S. The campground remains open year-round, though winter camping requires additional preparation for freezing temperatures.
Leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling blocks at several campgrounds. "So, we got in with no reservation, which was great. It's in the same park as the high point, also great. The sites are varied, some have tent platforms, it's just off the AT, but we have a trailer and the 'trailer' sites aren't level," warns Grant M. about High Point State Park.
Highway proximity: Some campgrounds offer convenience but with noise trade-offs. "Open during the winter. Easy on, easy off. Lots of pull through sites. Next to grocery store. CLEAN bathrooms, showers, laundry. Super nice owners. Perfect for an overnight stop," explains BENdejo about Tri-State RV Park. Consider interior sites rather than perimeter locations for reduced traffic noise.
