Camping spots near Chester, New York offer a mixture of forested terrain and lakeside settings within the Hudson Valley region. Situated about 60 miles northwest of New York City, the area maintains cooler temperatures than the metropolitan region, with summer highs typically 5-10 degrees lower than the city. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 400-1,300 feet, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the seasons.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Round Pond Recreation Area maintains a stocked lake with opportunities for shore fishing. "The campground is beautiful and the staff was wonderful! We were looking forward to stopping by Round Pond again in the near future," notes Jacey H., who mentioned the well-maintained fishing areas at this military-only campground.
Winter camping options: Unlike most seasonal campgrounds, Black Bear RV Park remains open year-round for those seeking off-season accommodations. "We are returning to the south after spending a couple months of fall in New England. This was our first stop and primarily chosen because it was one of the few places along our route that was open for RVs in the off season," reports Gabbie Y.
Platform tent camping: Several campgrounds feature elevated platforms for tent setup, including Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park. According to Ethan K., "The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained or if you are expecting rain during your stay."
Harriman State Park trails: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center provides access to numerous trails within the 47,000+ acre park. "Been here a dozen times! Great hiking for all abilities. Free camping at stone shelters. Beautiful lakes all over the place," writes Meredith C., highlighting the trail network accessible from the center.
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: Winding Hills Park offers heavily wooded campsites that provide natural separation. Amanda B. notes, "It's deep in the woods of the park so there is good shade which is nice on the hotter days. The sites closer to the Playground side/closer to the bathrooms to be more noisy. Also those sites are closer together which would be good for larger groups."
Midweek solitude: Camping during non-peak times provides a completely different experience at Clarence Fahnestock State Park. One camper describes, "Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great. Weekends - this park is FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!"
Cell service variations: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds in the region. While some sites report strong signals, Laura M. observed at Winding Hills Park, "Good cell reception for Verizon and ATT," while others like Black Bear Campground may have spotty service. Campers should check with specific campgrounds before arrival if connectivity is important.
Farm-based accommodations: Peace and Carrots Farm Bluebird Tiny Home offers a unique camping experience on an active produce farm. Anthony S. explains, "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."
What you should know
Fire restrictions vary: Not all campgrounds allow open fires or have the same regulations. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center has specific fire rules. "Campfires are restricted to certain areas and you have to share," reports Thomas M., noting the importance of checking fire policies before arrival.
Water availability concerns: Several campgrounds have limited or seasonal water access. At High Point State Park, campers report, "No running water except for pump founded outside of the bathrooms. Toilets are pump flushed. Showers are only located INSIDE High Point State Park, not throughout the campsites."
Tent platform logistics: At High Point State Park Campground, many sites feature elevated platforms for tents. One camper warns about misleading photos: "The photos did not convey the actual steepness of this site!! The gravel driveway is on a 30-40 degree incline. The tent was too long for the 12'x10' platform, so we had to set it up on the flattest part and hope not to roll down the hill in the night."
Reservation systems: Campgrounds vary widely in their booking procedures. Winding Hills Park doesn't take advance reservations except for holidays. "Reservations are needed only for major holidays during camping season; Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day. When not going on a holiday it is first come first serve spots which is good if you just need to spend one night here," explains Amanda B.
Tips for camping with families
Group-friendly layouts: Jellystone Park Gardiner caters specifically to families with younger children. Stephanie H. shares, "This campground has a lot of activities and has kids of all ages galore. I was worried my 12 year old would be too old for it but he enjoyed making friends there." The campground offers scheduled activities throughout the season.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature playground equipment, but accessibility varies. At Winding Hills Park, "The playground has a volleyball net and other Normal playground equipment that I saw driving past it," notes Amanda B., though she recommends sites further from the playground area for those seeking quiet.
Swimming options: Sebago Cabin Camp offers lake access, but campers recommend nearby alternatives. "Near lake Welch- which is phenomenal for easy nearly- beach like camping. Don't expect to swim on site- go to Lake Welch near by!" suggests Katharine T., highlighting the importance of researching swimming access when booking.
Kid-friendly bathroom facilities: Bathroom cleanliness and accessibility matter for families. At Winding Hills Park, "The bathrooms are kept very clean as well," reports Valen K., while other campgrounds have more mixed reviews about facility cleanliness and availability.
Tips from RVers
Limited full hookup sites: Sebago Cabin Camp primarily focuses on cabin accommodations rather than RV sites. "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," explains Sara P., noting that RVers should look elsewhere.
Dumping stations: Not all campgrounds with RV sites include sanitary dump stations. At Black Bear RV Park, Dave S. notes, "Have stayed here several times - great location and nice, full hook-up sites. Back-in and pull through sites and can accommodate large rigs."
Winter RV options: Black Bear RV Park provides year-round options for RVers. "At least we had a place to park for the night, and power, but unfortunately it was very overpriced for what we got," reports one winter camper, indicating that while open, services may be limited in off-season.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. High Point State Park campers note that while the park allows RVs, "the 'trailer' sites aren't level," creating challenges for larger rigs.
