Camping cabins near Elmsford, New York provide shelter options within forests situated at elevations between 400-1,800 feet throughout the Hudson Valley region. Most locations experience mild summers with occasional thunderstorms and winter temperatures that can drop below freezing from December through March. Cabin reservations typically require booking 2-4 months in advance during peak summer periods.
What to do
Hiking access from cabin sites: At High Point State Park Campground, cabins provide easy access to the Appalachian Trail. A camper noted, "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."
Water recreation options: West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area offers cabin access to swimming areas supervised during summer months. According to one visitor, "The new docks around the swimming area create a safer swimming experience for even the most inexperienced swimmers, allowing them safe and obvious perimeters."
Family-focused activities: Weekend entertainment programming runs throughout summer months at many cabin sites. A review for Jellystone Park Gardiner states, "This campground has a lot of activities and has kids of all ages galore. I was worried my 12 year old would be too old for it but he enjoyed making friends there."
What campers like
Peaceful cabin locations: Many cabin sites offer seclusion from nearby urban areas. A Mahlon Dickerson Reservation visitor shared, "My fiancé, dog, and I have been going here for over 2 years and we love it. The campground is small but also secluded. We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful."
Cabin amenities for extended stays: Many locations provide practical features for longer visits. A review for Croton Point Park mentioned, "There is a lodge and cabins close to the end of the point, but they appeared to be part of a group camp experience. They all appeared to be closed for the season."
Variety of cabin styles: Options range from basic shelters to more equipped units. One camper at The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center reported, "They offer cabins and campsites. We spent 4 nights in the campsite area and this is a first class facility. Very clean. They offer a meal plan that you can get at their dining hall and I HIGHLY recommend that option."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabins require advance planning. A visitor to Camp Glen Gray reported, "Great Camp! One rustic place with many hiking trails to choose from. Camp also provides trucking of gear weather permitting. No vehicles allowed to drive through camp."
Facility limitations: Bathroom access varies significantly between locations. One camper at Croton Point Park noted, "Only one or two bathrooms in the whole place so be prepared to go for a walk when you have to go."
Seasonal considerations: Winter cabin availability is limited to specific locations. A review for Collective Governors Island explained, "The article also mentions the benefits of camping on Governor Island, such as feeling close to nature, relaxing and enjoying a peaceful space, away from the noise of the city."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Schedule cabin stays during programmed weekends for maximum entertainment. A visitor to Jellystone Park Gardiner shared, "This campground is great for kids. It has a event just about every weekend with kid activity."
First-timer friendly cabins: Several locations specialize in introductory camping experiences. One Croton Point Park review stated, "I took my 5 year-old-son and wife, all of us first time campers. this place was great. The site was very nice, all the people friendly and area beautiful."
Noise considerations: Some cabins experience more activity than others. A camper reported, "The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm. Great site for a party, try to stay away from this end of the site or choose a site away from other bookings if you'd like quiet."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose cabin locations away from RV hookup areas for more seclusion. A Mahlon Dickerson Reservation visitor noted, "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection."
Transportation considerations: Many cabin areas restrict vehicle access during specific hours. One camper mentioned, "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."
Off-season advantages: Fall and spring cabin stays offer reduced crowding. A visitor to Croton Point Park said, "We came in October to celebrate Halloween in sleepy hollow! This is a great campsite and reasonably priced. Was close to bear mountains state part and the train station is right there!"
