Camping options near Florida, New York range from established campgrounds to more primitive sites within the surrounding Catskill region. Situated in Orange County at approximately 400 feet elevation, the area experiences typical northeast seasonal changes with summer highs averaging 80°F and winter lows reaching 20°F. Most campgrounds in this region operate from April through October, though some sites remain open year-round.
What to do
Hiking scenic trails: High Point State Park Campground offers excellent hiking opportunities with access to the Appalachian Trail. "I spent two nights camping with my niece and this campground was perfect. The site was maybe a 50-yard walk-in and we barely heard anyone around us and had a real wilderness feel. We fit in a hike up to the Appalachian Trail from our campsite," shares Justin P.
Water activities: Seasonal lakes at Winding Hills Park provide fishing and non-motorized boating. "There is a large lake to kayak and fish in. NO SWIMMING. The lake is a nice size and has a trail so you walk the entire length with benches around a good portion to sit and/or fish," notes Amanda B. Fishing licenses are required and regularly checked by park staff.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and dusk offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. "The best part was at dusk when the animals came out!" reports Wyndie G. at Black Bear RV Park. Many campers recommend bringing binoculars and keeping food secured, especially in areas with bear activity.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Beaver Pond Campground receives praise for its spacious sites. "The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. You definitely feel like you have your own space and are not camping on top of your neighbor. Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained," explains Ethan K.
Convenience to NYC: Many campgrounds serve as accessible getaways from urban areas. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," mentions Megan B. about Beaver Pond Campground.
Clean facilities: Stokes State Forest maintains well-kept amenities. "Bathrooms and shower were all single stall and very clean, only a 5 min walk from our site. Two water sources nearby as well," reports E.M.V. This attention to cleanliness makes pet-friendly camping near Florida, New York more comfortable for extended stays.
What you should know
Bear awareness: Several campgrounds require proper food storage protocols. "Welcome to Bear Mountain" grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He is in his ranger hut, checking in the late evening arrivals to the campground... 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," shares Steve W. about his experience at Beaver Pond.
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds operate primarily from April through October. "We were there at the end of October, towards the end of the season, and there were only a few other campers there, and it was a weekend!" notes Laura M. about Winding Hills Park.