Glamping experiences near Chester, New York offer diverse outdoor accommodations within the Hudson Valley region. At elevations ranging between 500-1,800 feet above sea level, the area features a temperate climate with distinct seasons that affect camping conditions. Several campgrounds provide tent platforms to manage the sometimes rocky terrain found throughout the northern New Jersey and southern New York border region.
What to do
River adventures: Kittatinny Campground offers rafting and tubing options on the Delaware River. A visitor noted, "The most beautiful campsite ever. Don't cheap out. Get the tubing package as well." Many glamping sites provide convenient access to waterways with equipment rentals available on-site.
Hiking trails: Campers near Chester can access portions of the Appalachian Trail from multiple campgrounds. A hiker at High Point State Park Campground shared, "I stopped at this shelter while hiking the AT in High Point SP. It was raining the entire day and the shelter provided a dry place to take a break."
Lake activities: Several glamping locations feature swimming areas with varying amenities. According to one visitor at High Point State Park, "I spent two nights camping with my niece and this campground was perfect. We fit in a hike up to the Appalachian Trail from our campsite, swam at the pond (Lake Marcia), and got in a fishing session at Steeny Kill Lake."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Stokes State Forest offers more secluded camping experiences with natural features. A camper mentioned, "We stayed on a 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."
Comfortable tent platforms: Many sites provide raised platforms for tent setup, especially helpful during wet weather. One camper at Stokes State Forest explained, "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."
River views: Oakland Valley Campground features sites directly adjacent to the Neversink River. A visitor commented, "Our location was by the river and did not disappoint. It was a rocky location but we didn't mind." Many glamping operations have strategically positioned their accommodations to maximize scenic water views.
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Most glamping operations in the region operate from April through October due to weather conditions. High Point State Park operates "from April 1 to October 31," which aligns with most area campgrounds.
Military-only options: Some exceptional camping facilities are reserved for specific groups. A visitor to Round Pond Recreation Area noted, "This campground was a nice and quiet stop on our way home from a trip to Vermont. Bath houses are absolutely spotless. Fire pits, electric and water hook ups only."
Noise levels: Weekend camping can be louder than weekday stays. A camper at Oakland Valley Campground shared, "The downside though was how loud it got at night with parties and music. I never wanna dampen a good time and we all get our kicks somehow, but it definitely impeded on the peace and quiet."
Bathroom facilities: Quality and availability vary significantly between glamping operations. A visitor at Kittatinny Campground reported, "The bathrooms needed updating and people at the tent area made a comment that it took a while to get a turn at the showers."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Jellystone Park Gardiner specializes in family entertainment with scheduled programs. A parent shared, "This place is great for kids or diverse groups that all want to do different things. It's very family themed and fun for everyone. However, it can end up being as crowded as an amusement park depending on when you go."
Farm experiences: Some glamping sites incorporate animal encounters. A visitor to Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort mentioned, "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool. Weekend was busy as usual but during the week it seems to be seasonal that stay."
Swimming options: Water features vary across glamping locations. One parent at Jellystone Park Gardiner described, "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."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose glamping locations with level sites when possible. A camper at High Point State Park observed, "The 'trailer' sites aren't level. Showers are at the day use area, from 10-5:30, no trailer dump, website says laundry, but apparently not."
Reservation verification: Confirm site assignments upon arrival. A visitor to Pleasant Acres noted, "Upon arrival we had a bit of a mix up. Someone was planted in our assigned spot. After a phone call, all was ok."
Utility locations: Even glamping sites with electrical hookups may have limitations. A camper at Neversink River Resort warned, "Certain loops/areas definitely better than others. But this space has loads of potential. We were there at the end of the season, which we loved bc we practically had this huge campground to ourselves."
