Camping near Garrison, New York offers access to over 40 miles of hiking trails in Ward Pound Ridge Reservation and the Appalachian Trail corridor. The camping season varies significantly by elevation, with higher elevations at Clarence Fahnestock State Park remaining open through early December when temperatures can drop below freezing at night. Most campgrounds in the Hudson Valley region require advance booking, especially for platform sites and cabins during peak foliage season.
What to do
Hiking the extensive trail systems: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers dozens of interconnected trails just 45 minutes from Garrison. A camper noted, "The best part of this campsite are the endless trails in the area. I believe there are over 40 miles of trails in this area. Would definitely recommend for those who want to camp near NYC but not drive too far." The reservation features trails for all difficulty levels, including accessible options.
Swimming in Sebago Lake: Sebago Cabin Camp in Harriman State Park provides lake access with a beach area perfect for summer visits. As one reviewer mentioned, "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day." The lake also offers paddle boating opportunities for visitors seeking water recreation.
Weekend activities for families: Jellystone Park Gardiner organizes regular scheduled events throughout the camping season. A visitor shared, "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." Saturdays typically feature the most robust activity schedules.
Apple picking excursions: Fall camping trips can include visits to nearby orchards. One camper at Clarence Fahnestock State Park explained, "If you are in to apple picking it is a short drive and it is easy to get into town to take the train to and from NYC." This makes for a perfect autumn day trip while camping in the region.
What campers like
Private, platform camping sites: Several campgrounds offer raised platform sites, which provide practical benefits in wet conditions. At Beaver Pond Campground, one camper noted, "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."
Close proximity to NYC: The area attracts city dwellers looking for accessible outdoor experiences. A visitor to Sebago Cabin Camp shared, "This place is only an hour away from NYC with so much to do and see. These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge. You still feel like you are 'roughing it' but with the convenience of a fridge."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting provides chances to observe various species. At Croton Point Park, one camper mentioned, "This must be one of the most breathtaking camp grounds right on the Hudson. Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night."
Fall foliage scenery: Camping during autumn offers spectacular views. A reviewer at Clarence Fahnestock State Park recommended, "We make a habit of going during the end-of-summer/fall when you can watch the leaves change along the hiking trails, go apple and pumpkin picking near the campsites, and eat some scrumptious apple cinnamon doughnuts and drink pumpkin hot chocolate."
What you should know
Military-only campgrounds: Two campgrounds near Garrison restrict access to military personnel. At West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area, a visitor 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."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Sebago Cabin Camp, a camper reported, "Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING. There's a few very cute small towns nearby with surprisingly modern restaurants and friendly people."
Reservation systems differ: Some campgrounds require in-person bookings rather than online reservations. At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, a camper advised, "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."
Beach access restrictions: Swimming areas often have specific regulations. A visitor to Croton Point Park mentioned, "Clean park with a place to swim but only within buoys and when a life guard is present. Only one or two bathrooms in the whole place so be prepared to go for a walk when you have to go."
Tips for camping with families
Opt for campgrounds with organized activities: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center offers structured programming for families. One visitor shared, "I camped on one of the platforms, which was very nice and did not feel crowded even with other people on neighboring platforms. One highlight was having meals cooked by the stellar chef. The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio."
Consider site location carefully: For families with small children, bathhouse proximity matters. At Clarence Fahnestock State Park, a camper observed, "The sites are a bit far from the comfort stations than most campgrounds we have been to. But there are port-a-potties very close to the sites, which is very important when you have young kids."
Choose sites away from noise: Quiet family camping requires strategic site selection. A visitor to Croton Point Park advised, "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 quite. $50/night without Westchester pass."
Pack for unpredictable weather: Temperature fluctuations can be significant, especially in spring and fall. At Clarence Fahnestock State Park, one camper shared, "Weekdays? You should be in luck! We stayed in site number 1, and I found it to be just wooded enough. Almost all of the sites offered privacy.... Even when the campground was full."
Tips from RVers
Book specific sites for comfort: At Beaver Pond Campground, one RVer recommended, "If staying here and concerned about branches I'd suggest one of the pull through sites. Specifically 138, 146 and 145 have a nice concrete patio and nicer firepit if you want to spend a little more. Also be cautious of the 'R' and 'S' sites...its just a large gravel parking area with little to no shade."
Consider the campground layout: Some RV areas have limited privacy between sites. At New York City North-Newburgh KOA, a camper noted, "We stayed for one night. Very nice, private pull-through site with many trees. Wonderful store with fun things to buy! Decorated nicely for Halloween. Well kept grounds!"
Limited full hookup options: Most campgrounds near Garrison offer electric only or partial hookups. At the KOA, an RVer explained, "A quick 15 minute drive from Beaver Pond, is Bear Mountain State Park. Here you can find some of the Appalachian Trail, with various smaller trail heads for this historic part of the region."
Seasonal closure considerations: RV camping seasons vary throughout the region. At Sebago Cabin Camp, a visitor mentioned, "They have rustic cabins. These do not have plumbing or heat. It is a step up from cabin camping. They also have a beach behind it."
