Harriman State Park and the surrounding regions provide accessible camping options 30-50 minutes from Ramsey, New Jersey, with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,300 feet throughout the area. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Both private and public campgrounds operate with varying seasonal calendars, with most facilities closing between November and April.
What to do
Swimming at Lake Welch: Located in Harriman State Park, the sandy beach area offers summer recreation for campers. "A stones throw from NYC this beautiful area combines Lake Welch and Harriman State Park. This camp ground is laid back away from the busy activity of the big city. If you want to get away and relax you can come here to walk, swim and camp. The beach is secured with lifeguards and shower and bathroom facilities are available," notes Brian O. from Beaver Pond Campground.
Paddling on Sebago Lake: Rent boats or bring your own for water activities. "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day. We were able to rent a cabin which was equipped with an outside grill and picnic area," writes Ethan K. about Sebago Cabin Camp.
Hiking the AT segments: Access portions of the Appalachian Trail through the region's parks. "Haven't gotten the chance to camp here yet, but will definitely do so this summer. Fantastic loop hike near some amazing hidden lakes," shares Meredith C. about trails at Wawayanda State Park.
What campers like
Spacious camping sites: Many campgrounds offer well-separated sites. "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. Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained," explains Ethan K.
Tent platforms: Raised platforms keep gear dry during wet weather. "I have camped Beaver Pond for the last 45 years and have found something new and better each every year I've gone to the campgrounds. I have gone from tent platform, tent camping, tarp, and now hammock camping," shares Elliot G.
Utility stations: Convenient facilities for washing dishes and gathering water. "I also particularly enjoyed the communal sink which made it very convenient and easy to wash dishes and fill up water," mentions Ethan K. from Beaver Pond Campground.
What you should know
Bear activity awareness: Follow proper food storage practices. "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... He offers us a highlighted map to our site, wishes us a good stay, and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area," warns Steve W. from Croton Point Park.
Off-grid accommodations: Most primitive sites lack amenities. "This is an off-grid camping experience. You can use your generator at certain hours. They have a beach. Their staff is friendly," notes Adaly about Beaver Pond.
Reservation requirements: Book well ahead for summer weekends. "Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great," advises Rebecca S.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly beaches: Lake facilities with lifeguards provide safe swimming. "Short distance from the NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," reports Zorina N. about Beaver Pond.
Communal activities: Look for organized events at campgrounds. "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too," shares Sara P. from Sebago Cabin Camp.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Keep watch for local fauna. "The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping," cautions Kelvin about camping at Beaver Pond.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research specific site details before booking. "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection," recommends antruze from Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Off-season visits: Experience more peaceful camping during weekdays. "We stayed here on a Thursday night in September prior to taking off backpacking. The campground was clean and quiet. RV hook-ups, tent platforms, and rustic tent sites were available," notes Rebecca S. about Beaver Pond.
Facilities access: Check seasonal availability of amenities. "Weekends - this park is FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck! We stayed in site number 1, and I found it to be just wooded enough," advises Shelly B. about Clarence Fahnestock State Park.
Legend
