Dispersed camping options within Harriman State Park provide backcountry alternatives to developed campgrounds near Irvington, New York. The area sits at elevations between 600-1,400 feet, creating varied terrain with numerous lakes and ponds throughout the 47,000+ acre forest complex. Most primitive sites require a 1-3 mile hike from trailheads and lack facilities like running water or trash collection.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail features challenging terrain with significant rewards. About 2.5 miles from the Gate Hill Road trailhead, hikers reach primitive campsites with panoramic views. "At one point of the trail is a very difficult, but doable, rock scramble up the side of the mountain. At the top of the scramble is a primitive camping site with amazing views," notes visitor Ethan K.
Waterfront recreation: Lake Welch Beach provides swimming options during summer months. At Beaver Pond Campground, campers can access nearby water activities. "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," shares Steve W.
Trail exploration: Multiple interconnected paths exist throughout the region's parks. At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, campers find extensive trail networks. "This campsite are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience," notes Jeremy S., while another visitor mentions "there are over 40 miles of trails in this area."
What campers like
Platform camping: Raised tent areas provide practical advantages during wet weather. At The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, platforms enhance the camping experience. "The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was... Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained or if you are expecting rain during your stay," reports Ethan K.
Privacy between sites: Spacious layout at several campgrounds provides separation between neighboring campers. "You definitely feel like you have your own space and are not camping on top of your neighbor," notes one visitor about Beaver Pond, while a Ward Pound Ridge camper states, "The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails."
Wildlife viewing: Animal sightings add to the camping experience. "Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," mentions Megan B. about Beaver Pond. Wildlife awareness is important as multiple reviewers mention bear activity in the region, with one noting rangers provide informational briefings upon arrival.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Peak times affect availability and experience. For Clarence Fahnestock State Park, timing matters significantly. "Busy Campground on Weekends! This park is FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!" advises Shelly B., while another camper notes "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."
Noise levels: Campground sound varies based on location and timing. At Croton Point Park, campers report mixed experiences: "The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm. Great site for a party, try to stay away from this end of the site or choose a site away from other bookings if you'd like quiet," advises Jonathan C.
Site selection: Research before booking as site quality varies significantly. Many campgrounds feature distinctly different sites within the same facility. "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site," mentions a Fahnestock visitor, while another advises, "check out the sites online to get one that is private."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Kid-friendly amenities exist at several locations. Croton Point Park provides facilities for children. "They have a model airplane air field and a decent playground for young kids," notes Andrew A., while another visitor mentions "playground within sight of our camper."
Beach proximity: Swimming options provide recreational opportunities. "There is a lodge and cabins close to the end of the point... They reminded me of places I used to take youth groups for weekend camps," shares one Croton Point visitor. At Beaver Pond, a camper notes it's "great for all types of levels of campers" with "something for all, swimming, camping, access to bear mountain pool."
Food preparation: Cooking facilities vary by campground. Some sites feature communal washing areas: "I also particularly enjoyed the communal sink which made it very convenient and easy to wash dishes and fill up water," notes a Beaver Pond visitor, while Sebago Cabins offers "inside a full fridge and double hot plate outside a 🔥 pit and grill with table."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary between campgrounds. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, the best places to camp near Irvington for RV access to NYC provide basic amenities. "The sites had electric and water and were in a fenced off section of the marina parking area," reports Kevin A., though another notes it's "basically a parking lot with a dump station."
Site spacing: RV site proximity affects privacy levels. "If it's packed, your neighbor will be within inches of your rig. Pluses, minutes walk to the Statue of Liberty, liberty Science center," notes Keith and Tia S. about Liberty Harbor. For better spacing, "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room."
Urban proximity: City access presents unique advantages for RVers. Despite higher costs, Liberty Harbor's location provides exceptional access: "Two blocks away from NJ Path train into Manhattan or take the ferry to Wall Street!" notes one camper, while another adds "Easy access with our 32 foot RV pulling our Jeep."
