Camping in the highlands of Arden, New York offers diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,800 feet. The region sits at the junction of the Hudson Highlands and Appalachian ranges, creating a microclimate that extends the camping season from mid-April through late October. Winter temperatures can drop below 20°F, while summer days typically reach 75-85°F with cooler evenings.
What to do
Hiking to scenic viewpoints: High Point State Park Campground offers excellent access to the Appalachian Trail and the state's highest point. "I spent two nights camping with my niece and this campground was perfect. The site was maybe a 50-yard walk-in and we barely heard anyone around us and had a real wilderness feel. We fit in a hike up to the Appalachian Trail from our campsite," notes one visitor.
Water activities on multiple lakes: Several recreation areas feature swimming and fishing opportunities within 30 minutes of Arden. At High Point State Park Campground, visitors can experience multiple water features. "We swam at the pond (Lake Marcia), and got in a fishing session at Steeny Kill Lake. The slight downside was that we had to drive between the different lakes," explains a camper.
Farm experiences with animals: Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort combines camping with farm animal interactions. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," writes one camper. This campground offers unique farm-based activities not found at most standard sites in the region.
What campers like
Secluded platforms for tents: Many campgrounds feature elevated wooden platforms that keep tents dry and level. A visitor at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation shared, "They have these 12x12 platforms to put your tent on. This was pretty cool especially since some of the sites are all gravel with surrounding dirt. The sites are very large."
Military-only camping options: Active duty and veterans have exclusive access to certain facilities. "We love that it's a place specifically for Vets and active Military. Everyone is amazingly respectful of each other and the caretakers take such care of the grounds. It has become a home away from home for us and a chance to connect with other Vets," explains a visitor to West Point FMWR Lake Frederick Outdoor Recreation Area.
Geodesic dome accommodation: For those interested in yurt camping near Arden, New York, the region offers alternative structures. A visitor to Moon Valley Campground reported, "Small, clean with great views and great location for hiking, cruising etc. Bring your tent or use the existing glamping tents. Headed back for a fall weekend in the 'dome' which has incredible views."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: This region has significant black bear activity requiring proper food storage. At Stokes State Forest, "Bear lockers are not provided" and "proper food storage is a must," according to recent visitors. Some campgrounds provide bear-proof bins for garbage.
Limited or no phone service: Connectivity varies widely across campgrounds. "Just a note to other campers with T-Mobile, we did not have any service on the campsite, however just a hop in the car or a quick walk down the mountain for 5G service near the entrance off the main road," reports a visitor to West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area.
Seasonal bathhouse closures: Many facilities restrict bathroom access seasonally. A camper noted, "Showers are only located INSIDE High Point State Park, not throughout the campsites, but entry is free for campers." Hours can be limited, with some operating only between 10:00 AM and 5:30 PM.
Tips for camping with families
Select weekday visits for quieter stays: Family camping experiences differ dramatically between weekdays and weekends. "Weekend was busy as usual but during the week it seems to be seasonal that stay," observed a visitor to Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort. Weekdays often mean fewer crowds and more available facilities.
Check organized activity schedules: Jellystone Park Gardiner offers structured programming for children. "This campground has a lot of activities and has kids of all ages galore. I was worried my 12 year old would be too old for it but he enjoyed making friends there," shares a parent. However, another notes, "The campground had a lot of activities but some were repetitive."
Consider platform sites for larger families: Wood platforms at many campgrounds accommodate multiple tents. "We fit a large tent on the platform, there was plenty of space on the site for more tents," reports a family visitor, adding, "No room for yard games, but we spent the time relaxing and burning stuff."
Tips from RVers
Prepare for limited connectivity: Many campgrounds have limited or no wifi. "The Wi-Fi is also bad here. My kids enjoyed themselves a lot, and that is what matters, but I don't consider this a 5 star resort. There is also nothing nearby," reports an RV camper who stayed at Jellystone Park Gardiner.
Check shower facilities before booking: RV sites don't always have convenient bathroom access. "There are 2 showers for women and 2 for men. Both are old and not well maintained or in our experience clean. In general the camping spots are not well maintained, weedy, un-level and picnic tables are weathered and warped," noted one RVer regarding Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort.
Plan for distant garbage disposal: Some campgrounds require driving to trash facilities. "The garbage situation was the worst. Most campsites have a service, they tell you to leave it at a specific location by a certain time or they have many garbage cans throughout. This place had their garbage and recycling very far away," explains an RVer who needed assistance from fellow campers with garbage disposal.
