Mountain Lakes Park and surrounding areas offer a selection of rustic yurts, tent sites, and cabin accommodations within a one-hour radius of Bedford Corners. The area contains several distinct ecosystems spanning the border between New York and Connecticut, with elevations ranging from sea level to over 1,300 feet. Seasonal access varies, with most campgrounds fully operational from April through October when temperatures range from 45°F to 85°F.
What to do
Hiking near camp sites: Several trails connect directly to camping areas at Mountain Lakes Park, where visitors find diverse terrain. "A gorgeous piece of land that contains lakes, a lookout and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County. A dirt road loops through the property with trails off and through it," notes Ben H.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes throughout the region provide fishing options for campers. At Camp Glen Gray, visitors access multiple fishing spots within walking distance of cabins. "Many camp sites open to rent. Cabins - Leanto - Tent Sites," reports Jose N., highlighting the camp's rustic options with proximity to fishing areas.
Swimming access: Most glamping locations offer swimming areas, though quality varies by site. "The swimming area is an absolute joke, unless you are 18 months old, and then its probably perfect. (Extremely small, extremely shallow, and some sand to dig in)," warns one Lake Waramaug visitor, suggesting families with older children may want alternatives.
What campers like
Space between sites: Campers frequently mention site size as important for comfort. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, guests appreciate the layout: "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks. The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms rank high on camper priorities. "Bath houses are absolutely spotless. Fire pits, electric and water hook ups only. Will return! Staff is friendly and helpful. Military families should check it out!" reports Mindie C. about West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area.
Proximity to NYC: Many glamping sites near Bedford Corners provide relatively quick access from urban areas. "Love the proximity to NYC - I always look for areas that are not too far, but not too close to NY. Beautiful but small-ish tent sites. Lots of great hiking in the area in addition to beautiful Cold Spring, NY for the small-town charm," writes Becky G.
What you should know
Military-only facilities: Several top-rated campgrounds restrict access to military personnel. "Unfortunately for me, Round Pond is camping reserved for active and retired military personnel only. We drove through and the whole space is rather large. There are several signs everywhere making it clear that it is only for military," explains Ethan K.
Limited cell service: Most locations have minimal connectivity. At Lake Waramaug, "cell service is basically non-existent. Our trip this weekend was the first time we received more than 1 bar in 20 years. Actually we were a bit disappointed because this ground is a great place to disconnect and relax."
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant seasonal variation. At Mountain Lakes, one camper noted: "When we were there it was right after a rain storm and everything was a bit muddy and slippery. We will definitely be planning a trip back to Mountain Lakes when the weather gets nicer though!"
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Jellystone Park Gardiner offers numerous child-focused features: "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 there they have lasertag which they enjoy. And a bounce pillow."
Wildlife awareness: Families should prepare for regular wildlife encounters. "There are lots of skunks and squirrels that will get into EVERYTHING even in a bin," warns one Lake Waramaug camper, suggesting secure food storage is essential.
Weekend crowds: Many sites transform significantly on weekends. "I would never camp here on a weekend.... it is a party place then," notes one visitor about Lake Waramaug, while another adds: "True, people who work there have lots of arbitrary rules but they don't follow through on the important ones like drinking and quiet times."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers recommend researching specific sites before booking at Wildwood State Park Campground. "Stayed here for two nights with my popup and was surrounded by large motor homes/RVs. Sites had zero privacy and were all pull through. There was water, electric and sewer hookups at each site, but this was an expensive place to 'camp'."
Hookup details: RV campers should verify hookup lengths. "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection," notes a Mahlon Dickerson visitor.
Dump station access: Availability varies significantly between campgrounds. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N. Y. City," reports one Mahlon Dickerson camper, highlighting the convenience of the facilities.
