The Garnerville area sits at approximately 500 feet elevation within the Hudson Valley region, experiencing four distinct seasons with humid summers and cold winters. Camping sites near Garnerville, New York range from rustic backcountry spots to established campgrounds with amenities, most operating from April through October when temperatures average 50-85°F depending on the month.
What to do
Lake activities near camp: At Croton Point Park, located along the Hudson River, visitors can access a dedicated swimming area with lifeguards during summer months. "The park has a gorgeous scenery along the river and a private beach which is opened from Wednesday to the weekend with life guards on duty," notes a camper at Croton Point Park.
Hiking opportunities: Multiple trail networks connect throughout the region, with some accessible directly from campsites. At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, campers find "over 40 miles of trails in this area" according to one visitor who adds, "There's elevation gain, creeks, and open fields for stargazing."
Seasonal activities: Fall camping offers unique experiences with changing foliage. "It's a great place to be among the trees away from the hustle and bustle of the city in what I consider a majestic chapel," reports a camper who has visited Beaver Pond Campground for over 45 years.
What campers like
Proximity to NYC: Many campsites provide natural settings within reasonable driving distance of urban centers. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," writes one visitor about Beaver Pond Campground.
Water features: Lakes and ponds throughout the area serve as focal points for recreation. One visitor to Sebago Cabin Camp notes, "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day."
Off-season tranquility: Camping outside peak summer months offers a different experience. "We stayed here on a Thursday night in September prior to taking off backpacking. The campground was clean and quiet," reports a camper at Beaver Pond who adds, "Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great."
What you should know
Wildlife considerations: Beyond bears, smaller animals require attention. "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night," warns a visitor to Croton Point Park.
Variable site layouts: Campgrounds offer diverse configurations. At Clarence Fahnestock State Park, "All sites were so different. There was a storm the night before our arrival date, all campers were evacuated and they did a fantastic job clearing all the debris and downed trees before our arrival."
Reservation requirements: Different systems exist across facilities. For Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, "There is no phone or internet reservations and has to be made in person at the office. I would recommend call earlier and come in few minutes earlier to 9 am when the office opens to find the best spots."
Weather impacts: Rain can significantly affect camping conditions. One camper at Fahnestock noted, "The site comes with a picnic table (it was in OK shape) and a fire ring with removable grate, as well as a standing-level charcoal BBQ grill. This site and several others on the opposite (west) side of Pelton Pond had easy access to the 1.5 mile Pelton Pond hike loop."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several camping areas provide dedicated facilities for children. At Croton Point Park, one visitor mentioned, "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper."
Noise considerations: Family groups should note varying noise levels. "The campground offers several different sites, from platform tent spaces to those for 25' trailers. All sites have a standard picnic table and fire ring," explains a camper at Beaver Pond who continues, "There is a constant buzz in the air of conversation, music, laughter and shrieking toddlers."
Kid-friendly activities: Organized events occur at some locations. "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too," reports a visitor to Sebago Cabin Camp.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For RV camping, site characteristics vary considerably. At Clarence Fahnestock, a camper advises, "The camp areas were secluded if you wanted more private camping (also super unique layouts) but there were plenty if you needed a quick stop over."
Utility hookups: Many campgrounds offer limited or no hookups. At Ward Pound Ridge, a visitor clarifies it's "a really great place to camp. The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience."
Supply access: Most campgrounds have limited on-site provisions. A Croton Point Park visitor advises, "No on-site stores so pick up all your necessary essentials prior to. Short 5 minute drive to nearby supermarket to pick up food or firewood."
