Cabin camping near Bedford, New York provides access to the Hudson River Valley and the highlands of the Appalachian mountain range. Elevations in this region range from 200-1,400 feet, creating varied terrain for hiking and exploration. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F while winter nights often drop below freezing, making seasonal preparation essential for cabin stays.
What to do
Lake activities: At The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, visitors can rent canoes for afternoon explorations. One camper noted, "You can do a hike around the lake. They have both cabins for rent and camping spots on platforms which are great, especially when it rains. You can also rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity."
Hiking trails: Kettletown State Park Campground offers both flat and hilly trails within walking distance of cabin sites. A visitor mentioned, "Beautiful trails, flat & hilly. The bathrooms are always kept clean and stocked and there are a ton of watering spots." Most trails range from 1-5 miles and are rated easy to moderate difficulty.
Seasonal events: West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area hosts activities throughout the year. According to a reviewer, "The campground is beautiful and the staff was wonderful! We were very impressed with the playground on site!" The recreation area offers swimming in warmer months and winter activities during colder seasons.
What campers like
Private settings: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides wooded cabin sites with electric hookups. One camper shared, "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. Water and electric hookups and a dump station."
Water access: Croton Point Park features cabin camping with Hudson River access. A visitor noted, "This must be one of the most breathtaking camp grounds (family friendly) right on the Hudson. Short 5 minute drive to nearby supermarket to pick up food or firewood. Oh...and did i say, gorgeous scenery along the river and a private beach which is opened from Wednesday to the weekend with life guards on duty!"
Meal options: Some cabin sites provide access to prepared meals. At Harriman Outdoor Center, "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. This campsite is accessible by public transportation."
What you should know
Cabin basics: Sebago Cabin Camp provides minimalist accommodations that require preparation. A recent visitor explained, "This place is only an hour away from NYC with so much to do and see. 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."
Reservation requirements: Most cabins require advance booking, especially during summer months. For Kettletown State Park, sites can be reserved up to 11 months in advance through the Connecticut reservation system. Weekend dates in July and August typically fill 6-8 months ahead.
Weather considerations: Prepare for temperature variations throughout the year. At Wildwood State Park, one camper noted, "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."
Tips for camping with families
First-time options: Wildwood State Park Campground offers beginner-friendly cabin camping. One family shared, "I took my 5 year-old-son and wife, all of us first time campers. this place was great. The site was very nice, all the people friendly and area beautiful." Family cabins typically include 2-4 cots and electricity.
Kid-friendly amenities: Playgrounds and open areas provide space for children to play. At West Point FMWR Round Pond, "We started our camping season off right with a quick weekend stay at Round Pound. We were very impressed with the playground on site!" Most cabin sites include nearby playgrounds within sight of lodging areas.
Holiday activities: Some parks offer special seasonal programs. As one visitor to Croton Point Park shared, "We came in October to celebrate Halloween in sleepy hollow! This is a great campsite and reasonably priced. Was close to bear mountains state part and the train station is right there!"
Tips from RVers
Supply runs: Jellystone Park Gardiner offers cabin options with more extensive amenities. A visitor noted, "This is a very nice campground for families. Has a lot of activities and facilities for campers. It is a bit more open and campsite can be a bit close to each other. But the place was very clean a friendly." The park offers a camp store with basic supplies within walking distance of cabin sites.
Utility considerations: When using cabin facilities, check what utilities are included. At Wildwood State Park, "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'."
