Cabin camping near Briarcliff Manor, New York provides access to the Hudson River Valley and Harriman State Park. The region features elevations ranging from 70 feet along the Hudson to over 1,300 feet in nearby highland areas. Local cabin accommodations experience seasonal temperature variations with summer highs around 85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: At High Point State Park Campground, visitors can access multiple trails including the Appalachian Trail. One camper noted, "There are hiking trails and fresh water for kayaking. The campsite are ok, a little small and there is a pit toilet on site, but flush toilet and hot showers are 5 min drive."
Water activities: Swim or paddle at The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center where "You are able to 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."
Family entertainment: Jellystone Park Gardiner offers structured activities for families with children. A reviewer shared, "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."
What campers like
Military-only facilities: West Point FMWR Round Pond Recreation Area appeals to military families with its maintained grounds. One visitor commented, "We've been coming here for at least 13 years. We love that its a place specifically for Vets and active Military. everyone is amazingly respectful of each other and the caretakers take such care of the grounds."
Clean facilities: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation earns high marks for cleanliness. According to a camper, "Very clean and quiet. 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. Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point."
Winter cabin options: Stokes State Forest offers year-round cabin options. One winter visitor explained, "The wood stove definitely heats the room up nicely. I went through two bundles of wood in one night, and could have used more in the morning... The second time I took six bundles of wood and used them all from Friday to Sunday morning, and 7 would've have been better."
What you should know
Site selection considerations: At Croton Point Park, pay attention to site location. One camper advised, "Nice site and a 30-40 minute drive from Western Queens. Tent site is after the RV site, so use their LX before you get to site if you can. The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm."
Weather preparedness: Rain impacts camping across the region. At High Point State Park, a camper noted, "We wanted to setup our large tent on the flat gravel driveway and our hammocks and relaxation area on the platform. The photos did not convey the actual steepness of this site!! The gravel driveway is on a 30-40 degree incline."
Bear safety: Follow proper food storage protocols in this region. One visitor to Sebago Cabin Camp shared, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Group sites: Camp Glen Gray offers options for larger gatherings. A visitor reported, "Great Camp!!! One rustic place with many hiking trails to choose from. Camp also provides trucking of gear weather permitting. No vehicles allowed to drive through camp. Trading Post for treats and other items."
First-time camping: Consider locations with good support for new campers. At Croton Point Park, one first-timer 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."
Holiday options: Seasonal events enhance family experiences. A Croton Point Park visitor explained, "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
Access considerations: Some cabins and campsites have difficult access. At West Point FMWR Lake Frederick Outdoor Recreation Area, a camper noted differences between accommodation types: "Between rustic power-only campsites that give you a true camping experience and upgraded but, still simple cabins which allow campers of all ages and abilities to enjoy the outdoor experience, there is something for everyone."
Hookup availability: Check for water and electric connections. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, a visitor shared, "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N. Y. City."
Service limitations: Connectivity varies greatly between properties. At Round Pond, a camper warned, "Just a note to other campers with T-Mobile, we did not have any service on the campsite, however just a hop in the car or a quick walk down the mountain for 5G service near the entrance off the main road."
