Camping near Golden's Bridge offers varied terrain with elevations ranging from 250 to 600 feet across the region's mixed deciduous forest landscapes. Sites throughout Westchester and Putnam counties provide access to the Highlands region's unique geological features. Many campgrounds remain open from April through October, though winter camping options exist at select locations where temperatures typically range from 25-35°F during winter months.
What to do
Hiking extensive trail networks: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation provides more than 40 miles of marked trails. "This is a great place for camping. The shelters are great for people who want to camp and not have to worry about unplanned weather. 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," notes one Ward Pound Ridge Reservation visitor.
Swimming at Canopus Lake: Visitors to Clarence Fahnestock State Park can enjoy a natural beach setting during summer months. "This park has a nice open beach on Canopus Lake with a concession area and bathhouse, which we found to be quite clean! They even have boat rentals - or you can bring your own boat to launch!" reports a Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground camper.
Fishing local waters: Multiple ponds and lakes in the region support various fish species. "There is another lake and two ponds that our neighbor campers said were great for catching panfish - one fisherman said he had caught several bass weighing over 3 pounds!" notes a Clarence Fahnestock State Park visitor.
What campers like
Lean-to shelter options: Several campgrounds provide permanent shelters as alternatives to tent camping. "All of the shelters have fire pits and some have interior fireplaces. The one downside is that you need to book in person but it can be done well in advance if need be," states a Mountain Lakes Park visitor.
Platform tent sites: Elevated camping spaces keep equipment dry during wet weather. "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 or if you are expecting rain during your stay," reports a Beaver Pond Campground camper.
Wildlife encounters: The area hosts diverse woodland animal populations. "Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint. Free Hot showers in the bathrooms, with plenty of room to change," mentions a Beaver Pond visitor about the campground environment.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Individual campsites vary significantly in privacy and terrain features. "All sites were so different... 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," explains a Fahnestock State Park camper.
Bear safety protocols: Food storage requirements are enforced at many area campgrounds. "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 a Beaver Pond camper.
Public transportation access: Some sites can be reached without a car from New York City. "This campsite is accessible by public transportation. There is a shuttle run by the campsite to and from Tuxedo Park Train Station (reservations on shuttle required)," notes a Harriman Outdoor Center visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "Very clean. They offer a meal plan (Option for breakfast, lunch, dinner) that you can get at their dinning hall and I HIGHLY recommend that option. Worth the added cost. No RV and campers allowed. 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," reports a Harriman Outdoor Center camper.
Bathroom proximity: Consider campsite location relative to facilities. "The sites are much farther away 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," mentions a Ward Pound Ridge visitor.
Beach access with lifeguards: Some parks provide supervised swimming areas during peak season. "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful," explains a camper at Fahnestock State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Most campgrounds offer basic services without full connections. "No site offers electric or water hook up, camp amenities include: a moderately stocked store, public bath houses, a laundry facility, playground for the kids and camp-sinks with access to water," explains a visitor to Beaver Pond.
Reservation requirements: Advance booking becomes essential during peak season. "Call earlier and come in few minutes earlier to 9 am when the office opens to find the best spots. Plenty of parking and hiking trails! Not a lot of loud noises or wild animal issues that we experienced," shares a Croton Point Park camper.
Site size considerations: Campsites accommodate varying vehicle sizes. "Tent site is after the RV site, so use their LX before you get to site if you can. Dumpster and water near sites. We stayed in site 9. The higher number sites were closer to the RV site and the water," notes another Croton Point Park visitor.
