Tent camping near Bellvale, New York offers access to elevations ranging from 500 to 1,400 feet across Harriman State Park and the surrounding region. The area sits at the intersection of the Ramapo Mountains and Hudson Highlands, creating diverse camping terrain with numerous small lakes and streams. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with higher humidity than western mountain regions.
What to do
Swimming in Sebago Lake: Sebago Cabin Camp in Harriman State Park features a large swimming area with a beach that's perfect for hot summer days. According to one camper, "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day." The beach area has designated swimming zones marked by buoys.
Paddling opportunities: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center offers canoe rentals on their peaceful lake. A visitor notes, "You can also rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity." The center provides life jackets with rentals, and the calm waters are suitable for beginners.
Rock scrambling: For physically fit campers, the challenging terrain offers rock scrambling opportunities. A hiker at Suffern-Bear Mountain from Gate Hill Road states, "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." This trail extends about 15 miles round-trip with significant elevation changes.
What campers like
Rural farm camping: Peace and Carrots Farm Bluebird Tiny Home offers a unique camping experience on an active produce farm. A visitor shared, "This site was a small tiny home located on an active produce farm. The host was fantastic and catered to all of our needs giving us some firewood, a tour of her farm, and some fresh produce she picked that morning." The farm also features a local brewery that uses crops from the farm in their beers.
Community activities: Social campers appreciate organized events at several campgrounds. At Sebago Cabin Camp, a reviewer mentioned, "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too." These activities typically run from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend.
Digital detox: Many campsites offer limited or no cellular connectivity. A camper at Wawayanda State Park Campground noted, "No phone service at campsite, but could get phone service by the kayak hut or the main entrance." Similarly, at Sebago Cabins, a visitor appreciated the "Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING."
What you should know
Cabin standards vary widely: Cabins range from rustic to more equipped facilities. At Sebago Cabin Camp, a visitor explains, "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." Some cabins include additional amenities as one camper describes: "most cabins have 2 rooms with 4 cots but some are larger inside has a full fridge and double hot plate outside a fire pit and grill with table."
Limited bathroom facilities: Many primitive sites lack facilities entirely, while established campgrounds have varying levels of bathroom access. A camper at Croton Point Park mentions, "Only one or two bathrooms in the whole place so be prepared to go for a walk when you have to go." Even at developed campgrounds, expect basic facilities.
Ticks and wildlife concerns: The region has active wildlife including bears. A visitor to Wawayanda State Park Campground warns about "Ticks and bears" as potential concerns. Most established campgrounds have protocols for food storage, with some providing bear boxes for secure storage.
Tips for camping with families
Platform tents for comfort: Moon Valley Campground offers platform tents that provide more comfort for families with young children. A visitor notes, "This was a great campsite nestled in the foothills of Northern NJ on the NY border. Small, clean with great views and great location for hiking, cruising etc. Bring your tent or use the existing glamping tents."
Check for family programming: Some campgrounds offer ranger-led activities for children. At Sebago Cabin Camp, "ranger Joe is 👌 with the kids" according to a family camper. These programs typically run on weekends during peak summer months.
Playgrounds and facilities: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly amenities. At Croton Point Park, a camper mentioned, "There is a lodge and cabins close to the end of the point" and "a decent playground for young kids." Another visitor with a 5-year-old noted, "The site was very nice, all the people friendly and area beautiful."
Tips for RVers
Limited RV-friendly options: Most tent camping areas near Bellvale are not suitable for RVs. At Wawayanda State Park Campground, an RVer warned, "Campgrounds are a narrow patch of grass by the roadway. Site #3 is on a hill which doesn't make for a comfortable night of sleep." This highlights the limited dedicated RV pads in the region.
West Point FMWR access: West Point FMWR Lake Frederick Outdoor Recreation Area offers camping options for military personnel. A visitor mentioned the campground is "always well stocked and clean" with "laundry facilities are a great bonus for those of us who like to stay longer than a couple days." Note that this facility is military-only, requiring appropriate ID for access.
Plan for limited hookups: Most RV sites near Bellvale offer only partial hookups. At Croton Point Park, a camper noted they have "a mix of w/e (6 sites) and FHU sites" but availability is limited. Reservations often require calling directly as online booking isn't available at all facilities.
