Camping spots near Southfields, New York sit within the Hudson Highlands region, where elevations range from 600 to 1,400 feet across the surrounding terrain. These camping areas receive approximately 48 inches of annual rainfall, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and 55-65°F at night. Many campgrounds operate on varying seasonal schedules, with most facilities closed from November through April due to colder weather conditions.
What to do
Swimming at Lake Sebago: The beach area at Sebago Cabin Camp offers summer swimming with lifeguards on duty. A camper noted, "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day."
Hiking from primitive sites: Backcountry camping on the Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail involves a challenging approach. "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," explains a hiker who stayed at Suffern-Bear Mountain from Gate Hill Road Primitive.
Public transportation access: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center can be reached without a car. "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)," mentions a visitor.
Canoe rental options: Several lakes offer paddling opportunities with rental equipment available. "You can also rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity," says a visitor to the AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
What campers like
Tent platform camping: Elevated platforms at Beaver Pond Campground keep tents dry. "The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. You definitely feel like you have your own space. Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained," reports a camper.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer chances to observe animals. "The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio," says a camper who stayed at the AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
Off-season tranquility: Weekdays and shoulder seasons provide a completely different experience. "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," notes a visitor to Beaver Pond who camped in September.
Meal plan options: Some facilities offer food service. "They offer a meal plan (Option for breakfast, lunch, dinner) that you can get at their dining hall and I HIGHLY recommend that option. Worth the added cost," explains a camper who stayed at the AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
What you should know
Bear awareness: Wildlife encounters require proper precautions. "Welcome to Bear Mountain" grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He offers us a highlighted map to our site, wishes us a good stay, and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area. I mean, we are in Bear Mountain, what do you expect?!?" recounts a visitor to Sebago Cabin Camp.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely across campgrounds. "Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING," reports a Sebago Cabin camper.
Weekend noise considerations: Many campgrounds experience higher noise levels during peak times. "There is a constant buzz in the air of conversation, music, laughter and shrieking toddlers. Quiet time at night is laughable as the enjoyment of being in nature rages on into the early morning," notes a Beaver Pond visitor.
Military-only campground options: Several facilities restrict access. "This is camping reserved for active and retired military personnel only. We drove through and the whole space is rather large. There are several signs everywhere making it clear that it is only for military," explains a visitor to Round Pond Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Proximity to NYC: Most camping areas offer relatively short travel times. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," explains a Beaver Pond camper.
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. "Short distance from the NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," notes a visitor to Croton Point Park.
Group site availability: Larger family gatherings can reserve adjacent sites. "The campsites are a bit close to one another but if you have a big group you can book several sites near each other and have a great time with family and friends," explains a Beaver Pond visitor.
Structured family activities: Some campgrounds offer organized events. "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too," reports a Sebago Cabin Camp visitor.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Full-service RV sites exist but are limited. "Campsite 44 for just one night. I can hear distant cars from time to time but, not like highway sounds. Our site is a trailer site, it's perfect for the trusty old pop-up, and feels nice and roomy," notes a visitor to Black Bear RV Park.
Winter RV camping options: Few campgrounds remain open year-round. "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 an RVer who stayed at Black Bear RV Park.
Price considerations: RV sites with hookups typically cost more than tent sites. "Basic sites with full hookups for about $80 a night. All the buildings are closed due to Covid, so no laundry & no bathroom," notes a Black Bear RV Park visitor.
