Cabins near Hartsdale, New York offer seasonal camping options within the Hudson Valley region at elevations ranging from 100 to 1,200 feet above sea level. Most cabin facilities open from April through October, with limited winter availability at select locations. Average summer temperatures reach 85°F during July and August with humidity levels often exceeding 70%.
What to do
Swimming at designated beaches: West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area provides swimming areas with lifeguards and marked boundaries. "We were very impressed with the playground on site! Unfortunately, due to our early start in the camping season the weather did not allow us to enjoy fishing or the beach or water hook ups, however all areas looked well maintained," notes Jacey H.
Hiking nearby trails: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center offers access to numerous hiking paths suitable for different skill levels. "Great trails to hike for novices looking to branch out but not too large that you'll be lost forever," mentions Shay G. The park features interconnected trail systems with routes ranging from 1-mile loops to more challenging 8-mile treks.
Urban exploration and historical sites: Staten Island Gateway offers a unique camping experience with urban exploration options. "There are abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring... There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building. This place is great if you live in New York city and don't want to drive really far from the city to go camping," explains Phillip L.
What campers like
Easy access to New York City: Camp Gateway Staten Island provides camping with metropolitan proximity. "This place is awesome when it comes to finding an affordable place to stay while in NY, this camp ground isn't your usual forest camp sites, however there are some beautiful views, and it is located in the middle of Staten Island," according to Jill R.
Wildlife viewing: Croton Point Park cabins offer chances to spot local wildlife. "There are lots of bunnies!" mentions Isabel L. The park's position along the Hudson River creates habitat for various bird species and small mammals visible from cabin porches and nearby trails.
Weekend activities and community events: Sebago Cabin Camp organizes social gatherings for guests. "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day," says Ethan K. The park hosts movie nights and community events regularly during peak season months.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Several cabin areas have restricted connectivity. "Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING," notes Sara P. about Sebago. Other campers report variable coverage depending on carrier, with most sites having at least emergency call capabilities.
Reservation requirements: Croton Point Park has specific booking procedures. "When we checked in, we had to write down our credit card number on a slip of paper before we were given a key that opened the gate to the campground," explains Lee D. Reservations often require phone calls rather than online booking.
Noise factors: Train sounds affect some campsites. "Only down side is there is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night," reports Andrew A. about Croton Point Park. Noise levels vary by specific cabin location within each facility.
Cabin condition variations: Basic amenities differ between locations. "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," Sara P. explains about Sebago Cabin Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Choose kid-friendly activities: Jellystone Park Gardiner specializes in family entertainment. "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.
Select accommodations based on comfort needs: Family cabin rentals range from basic to well-equipped. "Our site was very nice, all the people friendly and area beautiful," Kevin G. reports about his family's first camping experience at Croton Point Park.
Consider proximity to facilities: Bathroom access matters for families with young children. "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," notes Stephanie H. about Jellystone Park Gardiner.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides water and electric connections for RVs. "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection," advises antruze.
Site spacing and privacy: RV sites vary in layout and proximity to neighbors. "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station," notes Jeff W. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Accessibility for larger vehicles: Some campgrounds accommodate bigger rigs better than others. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill," reports Nancymike K. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
