Tent camping options near Haverstraw, New York concentrate in the 47,000-acre Harriman State Park wilderness, where elevations range from 500 to 1,300 feet. The area experiences moderate rainfall averaging 45 inches annually, with summer temperatures typically between 60-85°F. Many primitive sites require hikers to carry equipment uphill between 2-5 miles to access camping areas.
What to do
Swim at designated lake beaches: Croton Point Park offers swimming in the Hudson River with buoys marking safe areas and lifeguards on duty. As Isabel L. notes, "Clean park with a place to swim but only within buoys and when a life guard is present."
Enjoy nighttime programming: Lake Frederick Outdoor Recreation Area hosts evening activities for military families. Heather M. mentions, "Between rustic power-only campsites that give you a true camping experience and upgraded but still simple cabins... there is something for everyone."
Take advantage of water recreation: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center provides canoe rentals on their lake. One camper shared, "You can also rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity. Highly recommend if you are in the area!"
Disconnect from technology: Many camping areas have limited or no cell service, creating a true wilderness experience. Sara P. from Sebago Cabin Camp reported, "Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING."
What campers like
Large group accommodations: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers shelter sites with enough space for multiple tents. Paul R. explains, "They have great sights and are open all year round. Ive stayed in hammocks, tents, leantos, and even did a good share of car camping."
Seasonal celebrations: Croton Point Park provides a convenient base for regional events. According to Wendy C., "We came in October to celebrate Halloween in sleepy hollow! This is a great campsite and reasonably priced. Was close to bear mountains state part and the train station is right there!"
Meal options at select locations: Some campgrounds offer prepared food services. Ilya F. explains, "One highlight was having meals cooked by the stellar chef. The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio."
Family-friendly activities: Campgrounds feature playgrounds and recreational areas. Thomas notes, "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper."
What you should know
Varying noise levels: Tent camping sites may experience unexpected noise from various sources. Jonathan C. reported about Croton Point Park, "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."
Wildlife encounters: Racoons frequent the area, requiring food storage precautions. Anil S. warns, "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night."
Management restrictions: Mountain Lakes Park and other locations may have specific rules limiting certain activities. Paul K. noted about another area campground, "The park itself, but particularly the campground, has become laden with all sorts of inexplicable and burdensome rules, endless guidelines, and restrictions."
Trail conditions: Primitive sites often require difficult hikes to access. At the Stonetown Circular trail, Ethan K. advised, "This is a nice spot to set up camp because it is right next to a flowing stream with fresh water. Be ready for a difficult uphill rock scramble and I would advise packing light."
Tips for camping with families
Choose locations with kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds specifically cater to families with young children. Kevin G. from Croton Point Park shared, "I took my 5 year-old-son and wife, all of us first time campers. this place was great. The site was very nice, all the people friendly and area beautiful."
Consider cabin options for beginners: Campgaw Mountain Reservation and similar locations provide alternative accommodations for first-time campers. Jake R. noted, "There was also plenty to do during the day, like joining the hikers on those trails, disc golf, and sitting by the water."
Plan for bathroom accessibility: Bathroom facilities vary widely between locations. Lee D. observed, "Bath/Shower house: Clean but a bit dated. No shelves or hooks for toiletries. I was surprised the door was left open all night long."
Reserve early for holiday weekends: Popular times fill quickly at established campgrounds. Even less-popular campgrounds can become crowded on holidays, with Jake R. noting, "We went on a holiday weekend, and we were the only campsite that was occupied, so that is absolutely a plus."
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions before booking: RV sites have varying sizes and configurations. Andrew A. shared about Croton Point Park, "They have cabins and RV sites and now that the Tapan Zee bridge work is done most of them are now open again as the bridge workers have moved out."
Prepare for utility limitations: Many campgrounds have restricted hookups. At Sebago Cabins, one camper advised, "Ignore the hotplate and just cook on a fire out other outdoor set up. Don't expect to swim on site- go to Lake Welch near by!"
Understand campground layouts: RV sites may be positioned differently than tent areas. Lee D. explained, "The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together."
Research reservation systems: Different campgrounds use various booking methods. Lee noted, "The reservation process is a bit wonky. You need to call (no online reservations) and then wait for an e-mail, but the e-mail does not tell you your assigned site; you have to wait until you check in to find out your site."
