Glamping options near Briarcliff Manor sit within the highlands of the Hudson Valley region at elevations ranging from 200-1,000 feet. The area features a humid continental climate with distinct seasons that affect camping conditions. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F during the day while dropping to 60-65°F at night, creating ideal conditions for outdoor accommodations from May through October.
What to do
Hiking trails with elevation: Mountain Lakes Park offers several hikes with significant terrain changes. "Mountain Lakes park is a great place to camp within driving distance from NYC... There are also many hikes which can be trekked straight from the campgrounds which is always a huge plus in my mind," notes a visitor to Mountain Lakes Park.
Fishing in multiple lakes: The region offers various fishing spots across multiple parks. "The area, as the name implies, is home to several lakes which can be used for various recreational purposes," shares a Mountain Lakes Park camper. At Stokes State Forest, visitors appreciate the "beautiful mossy bank, next to a river and a lake. The area was quiet and peaceful, and areas with waterfalls and great views were easily accessible."
Water sports with equipment rental: West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area provides water recreation options. "Unfortunately, due to our early start in the camping season the weather did not allow us to enjoy fishing or the beach or water hook ups, however all areas looked well maintained," a visitor mentioned. For those seeking river activities, some campgrounds offer equipment rental packages.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers privacy not found at busier campgrounds. "The campground is small but also secluded. We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," states one regular visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Military-only camping options: For military personnel and veterans, dedicated camping areas provide specialized services. "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," explains a camper at West Point FMWR Lake Frederick Outdoor Recreation Area.
Family-oriented activities: "This campground is great for kids. It has a event just about every weekend with kid activity," reports a visitor to Jellystone Park Gardiner. Another camper adds, "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."
What you should know
Rustic facilities at some locations: Stokes State Forest offers more basic amenities than resort-style campgrounds. "For the most part, each campsite has its own porta potty or it shared with a couple other sites. At the entrance of the campground, there is a bathhouse with running water, bathrooms, and potable water," explains a recent visitor.
Varied noise levels between campgrounds: Some camping areas enforce quiet hours while others allow more social activity. "We stayed at the campsite at Lake Ocquittunk Area. Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents," notes a Stokes State Forest visitor.
Seasonal restrictions: Many campgrounds in the region operate on limited schedules. "Turning on the oven is a help, but not a good solution. 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," explains a winter cabin camper.
Tips for camping with families
Glamping tents for easier setup: Camp Glen Gray offers options that reduce setup time for families. "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions," reports one family camper.
Water parks for children: Select campgrounds feature water recreation specifically designed for younger campers. "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," shares a Jellystone Park visitor about the amenities beyond typical glamping options.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies significantly between locations. "Just a note to other campers with T-Moblie, 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," advises a Round Pond visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site size and access: High Point State Park Campground offers variable sites for different RV sizes. "So, we got in with no reservation, which was great. It's in the same park as the high point, also great. The sites are varied, some have tent platforms, it's just off the AT, but we have a trailer and the 'trailer' sites aren't level," warns one RVer.
Hookup limitations: Power and water connections vary significantly between campgrounds. "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," explains a Mahlon Dickerson Reservation visitor.
Dump station access: Several campgrounds offer dump stations, though locations and accessibility differ. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City," notes an RVer who stayed at Stokes State Forest.
