Tent camping near Ellenville, New York spans across two mountain ranges with elevations ranging from 400 to 4,000 feet. The region experiences warm summers with average temperatures of 75-85°F during peak camping season between May and September. Winter camping is possible at several sites but facilities are limited, with many campgrounds closing restrooms and water services from November through April.
What to do
Hiking to fire towers: Balsam Lake Mountain fire tower connects to Alder Lake via a 6+ mile trail. "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. We also hiked the balsam lake fire tower which had nice views of the area," notes Erik C.
Rock scrambling: The Labyrinth trail in Mohonk Preserve offers a challenging rock-climbing adventure. One camper at Sam Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground — Minnewaska State Park Preserve recommends, "If you're contemplating paying to do any of the Mohonk Preserve hikes DO IT. Especially any of them that include the labyrinth. Coolest hike of my life."
Winter camping opportunities: Several primitive sites remain accessible during winter months. At The Peekamoose Valley, one camper shared their experience: "Camped out at one of the sites by the river and it was amazing, no one was around except a man far from our site. Good walking distance to the car especially in the cold!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The layout at The Peekamoose Valley provides good separation between campsites. "It was nice to walk in but still be close enough to leave the food in the car rather than hanging the food up," reports Mollie R., who appreciated the balance between seclusion and convenience.
Vehicle-accessible lakeside camping: Alder Lake offers drive-up options for those who prefer to camp near their vehicle. "There are two vehicle accessible campsites along the road which had some very light traffic. There are several beautiful, secluded hike-in sites along the lake which I would love to return to someday," explains Erik C.
Night sky viewing: The lack of light pollution makes for excellent stargazing opportunities. At Giant Ledge Primitive Camp, one camper enthusiastically reports, "Yes you can camp on top of the mountain. Yes you can make a cap fire. Yes you can star gaze by the views near the camp. It take the average hiker about an hour ish to get to camp/ledge view."
What you should know
Seasonal permits required: During summer months, some areas have implemented permit systems due to overcrowding. At the Peekamoose Blue Hole area, you must obtain a free permit through the Reserve America system for day use between May 15 and September 15.
Limited cell service: Most camping areas have little to no cell coverage. A camper at Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed noted, "There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it's quiet & off the beaten path."
Limited parking capacity: Many trailheads and camping areas have small parking lots that fill quickly. "The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight," warns a Hemlock Ridge MUA camper. At Alder Lake, a visitor observed, "We arrived around 11:00 am and the parking lot was already packed and cars were lined up along the road."
Terrain challenges: Some access roads require higher clearance vehicles. One camper at Alder Lake mentioned, "The place is pretty easy to access with paved road the whole way there except for the last 1/2 mile where it is very bumpy. Some might say 4*4 but we made it just fine in our little Camry."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for young children: Choose walk-in sites closest to parking areas if camping with small children. At Slide Mountain Wilderness Roadside Campsite, Tommy S. shares, "There are two primitive campsites at this location. The small parking area can accommodate several cars. One site is to the left, one to the right. We stayed towards the left, which was slightly closer to the road, but was much larger and next to a pit toilet house."
Morning wildlife viewing: Early risings are rewarded with wildlife sightings around water sources. At Alder Lake, one camper mentioned the "awesome sunrise" and frequent beaver activity along the shoreline.
Bring insect protection: Bugs can be problematic, particularly in marshy areas during summer months. "Bugs were pretty bad," reports one Alder Lake camper. At Peekamoose Valley, campsites near water often have more mosquitoes, so pack appropriate repellent.
Tips from RVers
Limited options for larger vehicles: Most camping in the area is tent-focused with few amenities for RVs. At Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground, Jackie B. confirms, "No RVs" are permitted at this popular climbing destination.
Small van considerations: Vans with higher clearance can access some primitive sites. "Was not the easiest for my RV van to get up the hill with the ruts, but I have a small lift so it helps, lower clearance vans might not make it," explains SJ W. about Alder Lake.
Parking limitations: Most sites allow only one vehicle per campsite. A camper at Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground lists this as one of the "very minor cons: One parking space per site."
