Glamping options near Elmsford, New York range from basic to luxurious with various accommodation types available across northern New Jersey and the Hudson Valley. The region features elevations from 41 feet in Elmsford to over 1,800 feet at High Point State Park in New Jersey, creating diverse camping terrain. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from December through February, requiring campers to prepare for seasonal conditions.
What to do
Hiking multiple trails: At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, campers access numerous hiking paths directly from their sites. One visitor noted, "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks. Convenient for hiking and exploring, it's also only a 20 minute drive to a large mall in Rockaway."
Fishing in multiple lakes: The region offers several fishing spots within short driving distances from campsites. A visitor to Round Pond Recreation Area explained, "We are looking forward to stopping by Round Pond again in the near future... due to our early start in the camping season the weather did not allow us to enjoy fishing or the beach or water hook ups, however all areas looked well maintained."
Swimming access: Several campgrounds provide lake swimming during summer months. According to one camper at High Point State Park, "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. The slight downside was that we had to drive between the different lakes."
Panoramic viewing: For spectacular views, visit observation points at higher elevations. A visitor mentioned, "You can drive to High Point monument that is 1803 feet above sea level and you get a spectacular panorama view. There are hiking trails and fresh water for kayaking."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campgrounds in this region often feature larger sites than expected. One camper at High Point State Park Campground noted, "The site was maybe a 50-yard walk-in and we barely heard anyone around us and had a real wilderness feel."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and shower areas. According to a visitor at Round Pond Recreation Area, "Bath houses are absolutely spotless. Fire pits, electric and water hook ups only. Will return! Staff is friendly and helpful. Military families should check it out!"
Trading post access: Some campgrounds offer on-site stores for essentials and supplies. A camper at Camp Glen Gray shared, "Trading Post for treats and other items. Many camp sites open to rent. Cabins - Leanto - Tent Sites. Check web site for pricing."
Proximity to NYC: Most sites remain accessible while feeling removed from urban settings. A Round Pond visitor commented, "Love the proximity to NYC - I always look for areas that are not too far, but not too close to NY. Beautiful but small-ish tent sites. Lots of great hiking in the area in addition to beautiful Cold Spring, NY for the small-town charm."
What you should know
Military-only facilities: Some recreation areas restrict usage to military personnel. A visitor to Round Pond noted, "Unfortunately for me, Round Pond 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."
Seasonal limitations: Check opening dates before planning trips. A camper at Jellystone Park Gardiner observed the park operates seasonally from "Apr 16 - Nov 1," while High Point State Park Campground runs from "April 1 to October 31."
Platform camping: Many tent sites feature elevated wooden platforms rather than ground placement. One camper at High Point State Park mentioned, "Not a fan of the platform for the tent. Nice hikes. The view from the lighthouse is worth it."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. A visitor to Panther Lake Campground mentioned, "Love the place! People were nice. Bathrooms were clean. Only issue is the internet is terrible u have to be near the wifi zones."
Tips for camping with families
Activity schedules: Family-oriented campgrounds often provide organized events. A visitor to Jellystone Park Gardiner noted, "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."
Kid-friendly amenities: Some facilities specifically cater to younger campers. According to one review, "This place is great for kids. It has a event just about every weekend with kid activity," while another added, "Nice pool that is shallow so you can relax and let the little ones go in the water park section alone or they have a 3 ft pool also."
Noise considerations: Family campgrounds often have higher activity levels. One family at Panther Lake Camping Resort observed, "We felt like we were staying in the middle of a neighborhood. Lots of activities to keep kids busy which was nice but this place is a party place for sure. One family had a large movie screen outside watching movies every night."
Site selection strategy: Request sites away from common areas for quieter evenings. A visitor explained, "If you can score a secluded spot in the woods that would be perfect but anywhere else can be a bummer."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven parking areas. A visitor to High Point State Park noted, "we have a trailer and the 'trailer' sites aren't level. Showers are at the day use area, from 10-5:30, no trailer dump, website says laundry, but apparently not."
Water connection logistics: Water hookups may require additional equipment. A camper at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation shared, "The water hoses provided are plenty long. We didn't need to use our hose at all, just the filter."
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary in privacy levels between campgrounds. According to a visitor, "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station."
