Camping in Harriman State Park positions visitors at elevations ranging between 500-1,300 feet, creating distinct microclimates throughout the region. This terrain contributes to temperature variations of 5-10°F between valleys and ridgetops near Arden, New York. Fall camping requires extra layers as overnight temperatures commonly drop below 45°F, especially during September and October.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Lake Welch at Beaver Pond Campground offers water access for various small watercraft. "The grounds are just steps away from Welch Lake, offering a lifeguard monitored sandy beach which is open during the summer season for swimming, fishing, and small boat craft further out," notes camper Steve W.
Hiking options: Miles of trails with varied terrain surround Clarence Fahnestock State Park. A camper reports, "The Maven did an outstanding job keeping my possessions organized and dry as well as keeping me comfortable and happy on the trail! This will definitely be my pack of choice for future hikes!" The Pelton Pond trail provides a 1.5-mile loop accessible directly from several campsites.
Fall activities: Within 15 minutes of Winding Hills Park, visitors find apple orchards and pumpkin patches open September through October. "We make a habit of going during the end-of-summer/fall when you can watch the leaves change along the hiking trails, go apple and pumpkin picking near the campsites, and eat some scrumptious apple cinnamon doughnuts and drink pumpkin hot chocolate," shares a visitor.
What campers like
Platform tent sites: The raised camping platforms at Beaver Pond Campground provide practical benefits in wet conditions. "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.
Access to NYC: Campsites around Arden provide nature escapes within commuting distance of urban areas. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," writes Megan B. about Beaver Pond.
Rustic cabin alternatives: Sebago Cabin Camp offers basic cabins for those wanting minimal shelter. "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. Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING," describes Sara P.
What you should know
Variable cell coverage: Service varies significantly between providers and locations. At Winding Hills Park, "we had horrible cell service (we have sprint). Could not make calls or use internet at campgrounds or the park but did see others who were using cellphones," reports Amanda B.
Bear awareness: Wildlife encounters require proper food storage. "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," shares Steve W. at Beaver Pond.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have mineral-rich water sources. At Winding Hills Park, "The water smells a little like sulfur, so you may want to bring your own," advises Laura E.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers dedicated kids' facilities. "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. My older kids preferred a deeper pool but they still had a great time," notes Amanda S.
Short hiking options: For families with young children, Croton Point Park provides accessible trails. "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper," writes Thomas.
Off-season advantages: Camping during weekdays or shoulder seasons provides quieter experiences. "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," shares Rebecca S. about Beaver Pond Campground.
Tips from RVers
Electric-only options: At Black Bear RV Park, full hookups provide all necessities. "Have stayed here several times - great location and nice, full hook-up sites. Back-in and pull through sites and can accommodate large rigs," explains Dave S. Rates average $80 per night with discounts available for longer stays.
No reservation campgrounds: Some pet-friendly camping near Arden, New York operates on first-come, first-served basis. "Reservations are needed only for major holidays during camping season; Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day. Must book the entire holiday weekend 3 days ($90 for non electric sites add $5 each day for electric)," advises Amanda B. about Winding Hills Park.
Campground access issues: Some facilities have restrictions. "We tried to go to the beach, but were told it was at capacity at 3 different points throughout the day. At one point we saw 4 cars pullout of the parking lot and asked the employee if we could go in now, but was still told it was at capacity," reports Sammi A. about Fahnestock during a July 4th weekend.
