Tent campsites near Chester, New York are situated in the Hudson Highlands region, with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,300 feet. The area experiences typical northeastern seasonal changes with hot, humid summers and cold winters. Most primitive camping options require hikers to carry all supplies as the terrain features rocky outcroppings and moderate elevation changes throughout the hiking trails leading to campsites.
What to do
Lake activities: At The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, visitors can enjoy canoeing and swimming in the on-site lake. "You can also rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity," explains Ethan K., who recommends this option for summer recreation.
Trail exploration: The Suffern-Bear Mountain from Gate Hill Road Primitive offers challenging hiking with rock scrambles. A camper notes, "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."
Farm exploration: For a unique camping experience near Chester, Peace and Carrots Farm offers camping with agricultural activities. A visitor describes, "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 campers like
Peaceful settings: Campers at Sebago Cabin Camp appreciate the natural environment. "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day," states Ethan K., highlighting the water features that attract visitors.
Communal activities: Weekend organized events enhance the camping experience. According to Hashim C., Sebago Cabins offer "movie nights they do big bon 🔥 on Saturday very kid friendly ranger Joe is 👌 with the kids and they have 🔥 wood for purchase on site."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. At Corman AMC Center, campers can observe local fauna: "The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio," reports Ilya F.
What you should know
Bear precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage throughout the region. Thomas M. advises, "They do have bear boxes available as this is bear country," at Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, emphasizing the importance of securing food items.
Water access: Not all sites provide drinking water, particularly primitive locations. At Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #2, Ethan K. notes a benefit: "This is a nice spot to set up camp because it is right next to a flowing stream with fresh water," though water should be treated before consumption.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service varies significantly by location and carrier. At Croton Point Park, Thomas notes there is "no Wi-Fi and street address didn't work correctly with multiple GPS apps," suggesting campers should download offline maps before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options: For families new to camping or with young children, cabins provide comfort while maintaining an outdoor experience. Sara P. describes Sebago cabins as "VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge. You still feel like you are 'roughing it' but with the convenience of a fridge."
Playground access: Wawayanda State Park Campground offers play structures for children. As Andrew A. points out about Croton Point Park, there is "a model airplane air field and a decent playground for young kids" to keep children entertained.
Transportation options: Families without vehicles can still access some camping areas. According to Ilya F., "This campsite is accessible by public transportation. There is a shuttle run by the campsite to and from Tuxedo Park Train Station (reservations on shuttle required)."
Tips for RVers
Parking logistics: Many tent campsites near Chester have limited vehicle access. Thomas M. notes at Corman AMC Center, "The parking for your car is 1/4 mile away but they allow you to unload and give you a wagon to take stuff to your site," requiring RVers to plan accordingly.
Alternative accommodations: The Moon Valley Campground offers unique structures for those seeking RV alternatives. Bob F. recommends, "Try it you won't be sorry," noting that visitors can "Bring your tent or use the existing glamping tents" if an RV isn't suitable for the site.
Hookup availability: Most primitive tent camping areas near Chester lack RV hookups. For those needing utilities, Croton Point Park offers some options, though as one camper states, they have "a mix of w/e (6 sites) and FHU sites," with limited availability requiring advance planning.