Glamping options near Hastings-on-Hudson offer seasonal experiences that vary significantly between wet spring conditions and dry autumn months. The area sits within the Hudson Valley's diverse terrain, ranging from 10 to 1,300 feet in elevation. Most glamping facilities close in winter months, though some specialized structures remain open year-round with heating systems.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Several trails in Stokes State Forest connect directly to the Appalachian Trail. "There are 21 marked trails that cover over 63 miles within the boundaries of Stokes State Forest. Twelve miles are part of the Appalachian Trail," notes a camper who recommends the Tillman Ravine trail for its loop configuration.
Kayaking on local lakes: Great Divide Campground offers complimentary water equipment. A visitor mentioned, "Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool. Staff was friendly and helpful. Campgrounds have lots of hills so be prepared to hike up and down."
Monument viewing: High Point State Park contains New Jersey's highest elevation point with panoramic views. "You can drive to High Point monument that is 1803 feet above sea level and you get a spectacular panorama view. There are hiking trails and fresh water for kayaking," explains one reviewer who visited the park.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers private camping areas with appropriate spacing. According to a camper, "This county park has large, wooded campsites with electric and water. It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities."
Clean facilities: West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area maintains excellent standards. A visitor noted, "The campground is beautiful and the staff was wonderful! We started our camping season off right with a quick weekend stay at Round Pound. We were very impressed with the playground on site!"
Wildlife viewing: Camping areas throughout the region provide opportunities to spot local fauna. "The sites are spaced well and have a nice bonus of large fire rings set back in the woods a bit from the pad that you park on," explains a visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, who also mentioned bear warnings in the area.
What you should know
Military-only options: Some premier glamping facilities restrict access. A visitor to Round Pond Recreation Area reported, "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: Coverage varies significantly by location and carrier. At Round Pond Recreation Area, one camper mentioned, "Just a note to other campers with T-Mobile, 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 off the main road."
Bathroom access: Many glamping sites have limited restroom facilities. "The sites are very large and I suggest site 7. It is on a hill so have a hand truck or a few people to carry stuff. Trust me it is worth it and I think it's the best tent site they have. There are showers on the RV side of the reservation you can use," advises a camper at High Point State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Jellystone Park Gardiner specializes in entertainment for children. "This campground is great for kids. It has an event just about every weekend with kid activity," shares a visitor. Another adds, "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."
Elevation considerations: Many sites feature significant hills that can challenge young children. "Campgrounds have lots of hills so be prepared to hike up and down," warns a Great Divide Campground visitor, while another notes, "Lots of hills so bikes are hard to use. We hiked the golf cart trails which are beautiful and go throughout the woods."
Noise levels: Camp areas vary in noise policies and enforcement. A visitor to High Point State Park mentioned, "The sites are secluded from each other and most if not all have an elevated space to put tents or chairs. Each place comes with a lamp hang, a fire ring, and a picnic table. Bathrooms are spaced out."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Camp Glen Gray and several other facilities require attention to parking surfaces. "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," reports a frequent visitor who recommends calling ahead to verify site dimensions and grade.
Water connections: RV sites often require additional equipment for hookups. A reviewer at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation pointed out, "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."
Dumping options: Limited waste disposal facilities exist in the region. According to a visitor, "Nice and easy little campground. Dump station has a flush hose point. Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point."
