Bedford Corners camping options span across three counties, providing access to diverse terrain at elevations ranging from 200 to 1,300 feet. The area experiences all four seasons distinctly, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F—ideal for water activities at several nearby lakes. Campgrounds typically fill completely during summer weekends while maintaining moderate availability on weekdays.
What to do
Swimming and boating: Lake Welch Beach in Harriman State Park offers a sandy swimming area with lifeguards during summer months. "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.
Stargazing: Open fields at Mountain Lakes Park provide excellent night sky viewing opportunities away from city light pollution. "This is a great place to camp within driving distance from NYC. A fun option available at Mountain lakes is to rent a yurt to camp in. The area, as the name implies, is home to several lakes which can be used for various recreational purposes," writes Ethan K.
Model airplane flying: Croton Point Park maintains a dedicated model airplane field for enthusiasts. "It's a good park/camp for groups. They have cabins and RV sites and now that the Tapan Zee bridge work is done most of them are now open again as the bridge workers have moved out. There is a model airplane air field and a decent playground for young kids," reports Andrew A.
What campers like
Private, spaced-out sites: Campers appreciate the site layout at Beaver Pond Campground. "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 or if you are expecting rain during your stay," explains Ethan K.
Varied terrain for different skill levels: Hiking options accommodate everyone at Clarence Fahnestock State Park. "There is another lake and two ponds that our neighbor campers said were great for catching panfish - one fisherman said he had caught several bass weighing over 3 pounds!! There are also many trails of various difficulty levels to suit everyone, including horseback riders," reports Shelly B.
Meal options: Some locations offer food service for those who prefer not to cook. "I camped on one of the platforms, which was very nice and did not feel crowded even with other people on neighboring platforms. 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," shares Ilya F. about the AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
What you should know
Reservations required: Most campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer. For Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, "There is no phone or internet reservations and has to be made in person at the office. I would recommend call earlier and come in few minutes earlier to 9 am when the office opens to find the best spots," advises Anil S.
Wildlife encounters: Bears and raccoons are common in the area, requiring proper food storage. "Welcome to Bear Mountain grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He gives us the run down on bear activity in the area. I mean, we are in Bear Mountain, what do you expect?!? The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping," warns Steve W.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience higher noise levels, especially on weekends. "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," notes Jonathan C. about Croton Point Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature dedicated children's play areas. "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 Campground.
Swimming safety: Kettletown State Park offers water activities but has specific safety considerations. "The reason why I said that place is perfect kids? It has a huge land of campsite that the kids can run around until their energy out for the night! Plus you would see awesome stars during the nighttime! I went to there with campers for ten years," shares Jennifer H.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature centers with programming. "The Trailside Nature Museum is also fun for the kids. There is wide open space and the paths are well paved so kids can have fun riding the bikes or running around," explains Ming R.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookups: Select campgrounds offer various power options. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint. Free Hot showers in the bathrooms, with plenty of room to change," mentions Megan B. about Beaver Pond Campground.
Site selection important: Research specific sites before booking. "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site. This place can book up during camping season in the Northeast so make sure to book early in advance," advises Asher K.
Off-season advantages: Consider camping after Labor Day for fewer crowds. "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. 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.
