Private glamping in Hartsdale, New York focuses on secluded accommodation options in northern Westchester County, approximately one hour from Manhattan. Northern New Jersey and New York's Hudson Valley border this region, creating a diverse landscape of lakes, hills, and woodlands. The region sits at higher elevations—including Mount Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County—where temperatures can be 5-10 degrees cooler than New York City during summer camping season.
What to do
Hiking near water features: Mountain Lakes Park offers several hiking trails that connect directly to multiple lakes. One camper noted, "There are also many hikes which can be trekked straight from the campgrounds which is always a huge plus in my mind."
Water-based recreation: At Panther Lake Camping Resort, visitors can enjoy boating and fishing. According to a reviewer, "Big campground, lots of sites, nice pool, big community hot tub, boating is great, good fishing, nice playground, basketball court and great amenities."
Family activities: Jellystone Park Gardiner provides structured recreation for children. As one visitor mentioned, "This is a very nice campground for families. Has a lot of activities and facilities for campers. It is a bit more open and campsite can be a bit close to each other. But the place was very clean and friendly."
What campers like
Natural surroundings: High Point State Park Campground offers campers remarkable natural settings. A guest observed, "The site was very secluded. The lake was beautiful in the morning with mist or steam."
Diverse accommodation types: Camp Glen Gray provides various lodging options. A camper remarked, "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions."
Unique structures: Moon Valley Campground offers distinctive accommodation options for glamping in the Hartsdale area. A visitor commented, "Headed back for a fall weekend in the 'dome' which has incredible views. Try it you won't be sorry."
What you should know
Military-only facilities: Some campgrounds near Hartsdale restrict access to military personnel. A reviewer of West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area explained, "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."
Seasonal considerations: Many upscale glamping options near Hartsdale have limited seasonal availability. For example, one camper at Mountain Lakes Park reported, "When we were there it was right after a rain storm and everything was a bit muddy and slippery. We will definitely be planning a trip back to Mountain Lakes when the weather gets nicer though!"
Bathroom facilities vary: Facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. A visitor to Panther Lake noted, "Probably the worst shower ever. The lights are timed. The water is a button. The space is small as hell."
Tips for camping with families
Activities planning: Jellystone Park Gardiner offers extensive children's programming. A visitor stated, "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."
Location selection matters: At Panther Lake, site selection affects the family experience. One camper advised, "We were able to get a secluded spot in the woods which was great! 2 teenage girls had a blast in the lake and riding their bikes around."
Consider noise levels: Family-oriented campgrounds can get busy. A Panther Lake visitor reported, "This place is a party place for sure. One family had a large movie screen outside watching movies every night and another group of maybe 40 just partied all day and night."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Many premium glamping sites near Hartsdale have terrain limitations. At High Point State Park, one RVer noted, "We have a trailer and the 'trailer' sites aren't level. Showers are at the day use area, from 10-5:30, no trailer dump."
Hookup availability: Campgrounds offer varying levels of RV services. A Mahlon Dickerson visitor mentioned, "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection."
Seasonal RV considerations: Weather affects RV camping conditions. A Round Pond visitor explained, "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."
