Cabin camping near Arden, New York offers access to the western Hudson Highlands region, with elevations ranging from 900 to 1,300 feet. The area features mixed hardwood forests dominated by oak and maple trees, with numerous lakes and ponds scattered throughout. Most cabin locations experience distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months.
What to do
Lake activities: Swimming and boating at The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center provide refreshing summer recreation options. "You can also rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity," notes Ethan K., who found the lake particularly appealing for water-based activities.
Hiking trails: Access to Appalachian Trail within short distances from several cabin locations. "Great hiking for all abilities. Free camping at stone shelters. Beautiful lakes all over the place," according to Meredith C., highlighting the trail connectivity throughout the region.
Weekend events: Seasonal activities for families staying at cabins. At Jellystone Park Gardiner, "It has an event just about every weekend with kid activity," says Jennifer I., making it suitable for families seeking structured entertainment beyond nature exploration.
What campers like
Meal services: Optional dining plans at certain cabin facilities eliminate cooking responsibilities. "One highlight was having meals cooked by the stellar chef. The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio," reports Ilya F. about the Corman AMC Harriman Center.
Rustic simplicity: Basic accommodations maintain an authentic outdoor feel while providing essential shelter. At Sebago Cabin Camp, Sara P. observed, "This place is only an hour away from NYC with so much to do and see. These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge. You still feel like you are 'roughing it' but with the convenience of a fridge."
Public transportation access: Transit options from urban centers make cabin camping accessible without personal vehicles. "This campsite is accessible by public transportation. There is a shuttle run by the campsite to and from Tuxedo Park Train Station (reservations on shuttle required)," explains Ilya F., highlighting connectivity benefits.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Limited openings during peak months require advance planning. According to Hashim C., Sebago cabins provide "the way to get away and relax enjoy the lake... they also have movie nights they do big bon fire on Saturday very kid friendly."
Military restrictions: Exclusive access at certain facilities limits civilian use. At West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area, one visitor confirmed, "Round Pond is camping reserved for active and retired military personnel only... there are several signs everywhere making it clear that it is only for military."
Cooking realities: Outdoor methods often preferred over indoor options. Katharine T. advises to "Ignore the hotplate and just cook on a fire out other outdoor set up," suggesting that despite indoor cooking equipment, outdoor methods yield better results.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Water attractions make certain locations particularly appealing for children. At Jellystone Park Gardiner, Amanda S. notes, "Nice pool that is shallow so you can relax and let the little ones go in the water park section alone or they have a 3 ft pool also."
Weekend programming: Structured activities provide entertainment beyond self-directed exploration. Hashim C. mentions that at Sebago, "ranger Joe is great with the kids and they have firewood for purchase on site."
Cabin configurations: Multi-room setups accommodate larger family groups. "Most cabins have 2 rooms with 4 cots but some are larger," explains Hashim C. about Sebago Cabin Camp arrangements, allowing families to distribute sleeping spaces according to needs.
Tips from RVers
Site quality variations: Level conditions differ significantly between locations. At Croton Point Park, Lee D. found, "We had a loosely defined gravel pad that was level. All sites appeared level," which is crucial information for those bringing trailers or RVs.
Mixed-use facilities: Options beyond RVs include cabins at many campgrounds. "The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together," notes Lee D. about Croton Point Park, where cabin options provide alternatives to RV camping.
Accessibility challenges: Terrain conditions impact equipment transportation at some locations. At Camp Glen Gray, Jose N. explains, "No vehicles allowed to drive through camp. Trading Post for treats and other items," indicating gear must be carried or transported without vehicles.
