Camping spots near Harriman, New York sit within the Hudson Highlands region at elevations ranging from 500 to 1,400 feet, creating microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the seasons. The area receives approximately 50 inches of annual rainfall, with July and August being the warmest months averaging 75-85°F daytime temperatures. Tent platforms at several campgrounds provide a practical solution to the region's occasional heavy rainfall.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Winding Hills Park has a large lake and separate pond system for anglers looking for variety. "There is a nice sized pond at the park to fish which also has benches around a good portion to sit and/or fish. By the pond there is a nice picnic area with many picnic tables and grills," notes Amanda B. Remember fishing licenses are required and rangers regularly check.
Hiking from campsites: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center provides immediate access to trails without driving. "You are able to do a hike around the lake. They have both cabins for rent and camping spots on platforms which are great, especially when it rains," shares Ethan K. The center offers a shuttle from Tuxedo Park Train Station for those arriving without vehicles.
Winter camping options: Croton Point Park remains open year-round when most other facilities close. "We came in October to celebrate Halloween in sleepy hollow! This is a great campsite and reasonably priced. Was close to bear mountains state park and the train station is right there!" mentions Wendy C., highlighting off-season advantages.
What campers like
Platform camping benefits: Beaver Pond Campground offers raised platforms that provide practical advantages. "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.
Off-season tranquility: Clarence Fahnestock State Park transforms during weekdays and shoulder seasons. "Weekends - this park is FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!" notes Rebecca S. who adds, "The campground was clean and quiet. RV hook-ups, tent platforms, and rustic tent sites were available."
Water activities: Sebago Cabin Camp centers around its lake. "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day," reports Ethan K. The camp also offers scheduled activities: "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends."
What you should know
Cell service variations: At Sebago Cabin Camp, many campers appreciate the disconnection. Sara P. notes "Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING." Similar issues exist at West Point FMWR Round Pond: "Just a note to other campers with T-Moblie, we did not have any service on the campsite, however just a hop in the car or a quick walk down the mountain for 5G service near the entrance."
Bathroom facilities: Conditions vary widely between campgrounds. At Winding Hills Park, "Showers are free and hot and clean, water runs continuously (no button to push), and you can adjust the temperature." However, at Jellystone Park Gardiner, one camper reported: "The bathrooms needed updating and people at the tent area made a comment that it took a while to get a turn at the showers."
Reservation systems differ: While most campgrounds use typical reservation systems, Winding Hills Park operates differently: "No reservations taken other than for certain popular holidays. You just show up and pick a spot and the ranger will come around and collect fees. For non-residents the non-electric sites are $40 and the power sites are $45. Residents are $10 less. Cash only!"
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Jellystone Park Gardiner caters specifically to families with children. "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. My older kids preferred a deeper pool but they still had a great time there they have lasertag which they enjoy. And a bounce pillow," shares Amanda S.
Noise considerations: Campgrounds near Harriman vary in noise levels. At Croton Point Park, one camper advised: "Tent site is after the RV site, so use their LX before you get to site if you can. 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 quiet."
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing chances abound. Steve W. notes at Beaver Pond: "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."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: At Black Bear RV Park, full connections come at a premium. "Basic sites with full hookups for about $80 a night. All sites have a standard picnic table and fire ring," reports one visitor, while another notes the "great location and nice, full hook-up sites. Back-in and pull through sites and can accommodate large rigs."
Winter RV camping limitations: Off-season camping requires preparation. A winter visitor to Black Bear RV Park found: "Unfortunately at this site, the heated water pipe was broken so we had no water for the night... As it seems to be rare to find open campgrounds for winter camping, this is probably a good option, just be warned that some sites might not have working water."
Size accommodation: For larger RVs, options are limited in the immediate Harriman area. Black Bear RV Park specifically caters to this need: "Have stayed here several times - great location and nice, full hook-up sites. Back-in and pull through sites and can accommodate large rigs."
