Tent camping near Cragsmoor, New York offers access to a varied terrain situated at approximately 1,800 feet elevation along the Shawangunk Ridge. The area experiences cooler temperatures compared to nearby Hudson Valley locations, with nighttime lows sometimes dropping 10-15 degrees below surrounding lowlands even in summer. Primitive camping spots throughout the region typically require campers to position tents at least 150 feet from water sources and trails.
What to do
Hiking to panoramic views: Giant Ledge Primitive Camp offers exceptional hiking opportunities with several ledge lookouts. A camper reported, "This was one of my favorite weekend backpacking trips... the first ledge has breathtaking views at every single one! Go in fall for leaf views but be advised, it's REALLY busy at that time."
Lake activities in summer: Alder Lake features a small beach area and lakeside path for swimming and walking. According to one visitor, "The hike around the lake is a lovely, easy walk. The hike trail that connects to the far end of the lake is 6+ miles and while there were no real views, it was lovely."
Wildlife observation: Beaver activity is commonly spotted in the waterways near Slide Mountain Wilderness campsites. A camper mentioned, "Both sites have access to the creek, which showed active signs of beavers in the area. Some of the land behind the sites have No Trespassing signs, as it belonged to the local YMCA."
Rock climbing access: Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground serves as a base for climbers heading to the Gunks. A reviewer noted, "Located really close to the Gunks for climbing and also some great hikes around the area."
What campers like
Natural water sounds: Overnight tent camping at Peekamoose Valley provides peaceful soundscapes. According to a reviewer, "There's no noise at night apart from the running water of the stream and we had a very peaceful weekend."
Secluded walk-in sites: Giant Ledge Primitive Camp offers more privacy for those willing to hike in with gear. One camper observed, "There are a couple marked campsites scattered along the trail, we camped at the first one on the way up."
Sunrise views: Several tent camping areas provide exceptional morning vistas. A camper at Alder Lake simply stated, "If you bring a handsaw you'll be good for firewood. Bugs were pretty bad. Awesome sunrise."
Community atmosphere: Some campgrounds foster social interaction through design. A Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground visitor explained, "The campgrounds have eliminated fire rings at each site and opted for one, communal fire pit to encourage more social interaction."
What you should know
Site selection timing: Alder Lake can fill quickly during peak periods. A camper advised, "We arrived around 11:00 am and the parking lot was already packed and cars were lined up along the road. We grabbed one of the three spots that were left."
Variable amenity levels: The Peekamoose Valley offers different comfort levels between its camping fields. A visitor detailed, "There are two primitive campsites at this location. We stayed towards the left, which was slightly closer to the road, but was much larger and next to a pit toilet house."
Terrain challenges: Some tent camping areas require navigation of rough terrain. A Giant Ledge camper warned, "It is a near vertical hike the first mile with 90% or more being over rock gardens. Not some rocks littering the trail. I think the trail used to be a stream or creek."
Road noise considerations: Roadside camping areas may experience vehicle sounds. One Peekamoose Valley camper noted, "The sites were very clean and quiet, though you will hear occasional cars driving by."
Tips for camping with families
Flat tent surfaces: Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground provides level tent platforms ideal for easy setup. A visitor appreciated, "Big flat tent bases to set up on. A picnic table at each site. A 'comfort station' for the campsites farther from the main pavilion with bathrooms and big sinks for dish washing."
Structured environment: More developed campgrounds offer predictable schedules. One camper observed about Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground, "There is a pavilion near the fire ring with sinks and bathrooms with pay showers. They are kept relatively nice."
Dish washing facilities: Some campgrounds provide specific areas for cleanup. A visitor to Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground highlighted, "Covered communal pavilion with picnic tables, big sinks for washing dishes, and lighting (which shuts off at 9:47PM)."
Limited parking: Family trips requiring multiple vehicles may face restrictions. A camper cautioned, "One parking space per site. We were assigned our reserved site rather than choosing it."
Tips from RVers
Access road conditions: Elks Brox Memorial Park has specific entrance requirements. A recent visitor advised, "I read a previous review that stated small cars stay away. I have a Nissan rogue and made it in no problem. It's .8 miles in on the right."
Size restrictions: Many tent camping areas near Cragsmoor have limitations for larger vehicles. The same Elks Brox visitor warned, "I would not drive an RV in here except maybe a small type trailer."
Power considerations: Solar-dependent RVers should note site positioning. At Elks Brox Memorial Park, a camper mentioned being "right across from the lake in amongst a copse of trees. Drawback solar is pretty much out."
Alternative accommodations: Peace and Carrots Farm offers unique camping near brewery facilities. A visitor shared, "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."
