137 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The Hudson Valley region surrounding Highland Falls, New York features diverse camping options within an hour's drive, with notable sites including Harriman State Park's Beaver Pond Campground and West Point FMWR Round Pond Recreation Area. Campers will find accommodations ranging from primitive tent sites to full-service RV campgrounds with hookups. Harriman State Park, just minutes from Highland Falls, offers platform tent sites, trailer spaces, and access to lakes for swimming and fishing. The proximity to the Appalachian Trail and Hudson River creates opportunities for hikers and water enthusiasts, while military-affiliated recreation areas provide additional options with varying levels of amenities.
Reservations become essential during the peak season from late spring through early fall, with most campgrounds operating from April through October. As one camper noted, "Weekends at these parks are FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!" Bear activity requires proper food storage throughout the region, particularly in Harriman State Park where rangers frequently warn visitors about wildlife encounters. Weather conditions vary significantly with summer temperatures typically ranging from 65-85°F, while spring and fall camping may require preparation for overnight temperatures dropping into the 40s. Cell service can be spotty in more remote areas, particularly in the valleys and dense forest sections.
Many campsites feature lake or river access, which visitors consistently highlight in reviews. "This must be one of the most breathtaking campgrounds right on the Hudson. Tent sites are very private with some dirt roads to exit out," wrote one Croton Point Park visitor. Site privacy varies considerably between campgrounds, with some offering secluded wooded sites while others place campsites in closer proximity. Beaver Pond Campground receives praise for its location but some note the sites can be noisy: "There is a constant buzz in the air of conversation, music, laughter and shrieking toddlers." Fall camping is particularly popular for viewing foliage changes, with Clarence Fahnestock State Park noted for its scenic autumn hiking trails and proximity to apple picking opportunities.
"15 dolares la noche para los que viven en el Estado de New York o New York city .. si es fuera del estado son $5 dolares mas!!"
"Drive-in tent campgrounds. Adequate restroom facilities sprinkled amongst tent sites. Some campsites have raised platforms. All sites have picnic tables and fire ring with flip-top grill."
from $21 - $24 / night
Check Availability"When you are camping with a large group of friends and don't all have access to a car, this is the perfect spot."
"We were right next to the entrance for hiking trails which was convenient. The facilities are a bit of a walk, but that means it is spread out and there's plenty of room to relax and have fun."
from $21 / night
Check Availability"Love the proximity to NYC - I always look for areas that are not too far, but not too close to NY. Beautiful but small-ish tent sites."
"We are looking forward to stopping by Round Pond again in the near future."
from $25 - $40 / night
Check Availability"Tent sites are very private with some dirt roads to exit out but thats what make it unique experience! Bathrooms with shower is near by and has plenty porta potties all around."
"Was close to bear mountains state part and the train station is right there!"
from $30 - $60 / night
Check Availability"This was beautiful campground with an even nicer lake. You are able to do a hike around the lake."
"Great trails to hike for novices looking to branch out but not too large that you'll be lost forever lol highly recommend and can't do so enough 👍🏽"
"With a new check in area, Gardiner has really stepped up. They expanded the pool area to include another pool plus splash area and water slides."
"We got a red carpet site by the Gaga pit and near the water park (Cindy bear lane) and it was a convenient yet noisy site. Kids were at the playground 8 am or before and the noise woke us up."
"They have the best staff and they are everywhere, if you need someone they are always around and super friendly also."
"Location- 4 stars- close to NYC but kinda just in the woods and close to homes, not much around. Sites- 4 stars- a real mixed bag- the rv/trailer only section is really nice, wooded."
"It is a step up from cabin camping. They also have a beach behind it."
"This place is only an hour away from NYC with so much to do and see. These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge."
from $74 - $130 / night
Check Availability"Yes, this is a military-only campground but, that doesn't take away from how incredible it is and that is properly advertised.
This place is incredible. "
from $20 - $150 / night
Check Availability"Suffern-Bear Mountain from Gate Hill Road is a high difficulty 15 mile out and back trail. At one point of the trail is a very difficult, but doable, rock scramble up the side of the mountain."
ScoutThis is not the place to come if what you are looking for is a nice quiet, peaceful nature retreat. The "full shade" sites really aren't, it's crowded with kids yelling and running everywhere, and honestly, you're better off camping in your backyard.
RangerThis is an A.T. shelter and campsite. First come, first served. Privy was nice. Flat tentsites for 6 or more. Good for Hammocking also.
LegendExcellent campground! The forest is beautiful, the Hudson River is super close, there are great trails, and the surrounding area is beautiful. Sites are electric only, so make sure your water pump is working and fresh water tank is full. There are spigots for filling and a nice dump station. The player is excellent. I don't think tetn camping here would be great because the tent sites are closer together and there are trains that pass regularly. We couldn't hear the trains in our camper and our site was large and private with great Forest and hammock trees. The mansion tours at Vanderbilt and Mills were awesome!
ScoutThe main issue with the sites was that they were primitive -- no water. The campsites were basically just wooden platforms, with a picnic table and fire pit. There were also a lot of bugs, though this may be due to the rain. The location itself was fairly pretty and there were a number of hiking trails of not-overly-serious difficulty. The particular site we picked left is a little farther from our car than we would have liked, but for other sites you can bring your car closer.
TravelerThe campground was closed in 2024 for renovations. It is now open. I did a tour of the campgrounds but did not stay there. FYI, generators are NOT allowed at all at this campground. I did not see electric or water hookups. There are three loops. Each has it pros/cons. Sites 30-33 are near the bathroom facilities, sites 34-50 are more secluded, sites 52-65 are closer to the lake.
GuideTall pines, the sound of the mighty housatonic river, and some car noise on the nearby 2 lane. The campground is landscaped and maintained beautifully. the highlight is the river, ever-present in sound. The primo sites are on the northern end , where most sites are right on the water, and just a small descent. Bathrooms are good, not great. Showers are push button automatic, water was warm. We have a small RV, the dump site is up the main road about a 1/2 mile in a turnout. Free for campers, on your honor. At office were college aged young men and women in very casual street clothes all very nice, and mannerly, but not very knowledgeable, and hard to believe they could handle an adverse situation. I asked for the soap to be filled in the mens room on Thursday afternoon at 4 and it was still not done at noon the next day. -it’s a 2 minute walk from the office. I asked about a hike, they told me a trail head was a mile up the road. We found a spur directly across the street. I miss real docents, with knowledge, and wearing the garb. All sites not directly on the river side have paths down to get there. Did a nice little moderate hike just across the street called Pine Knob. Nice vista, quick 760ft ascent, combines withe AT for a length, then back down total 3 miles the way we did it. Some nice restaurants in Kent. Found a good breakfast in Goshen. We’ll be going back.
TravelerWe’re here for the Rock, Ribs, and Ridges festival and what a great experience! Make sure to bring a 50’ power cord as the hook ups are grouped together on telephone poles rather than at each individual site. As far as I know camping is only available during select events.
TravelerNot an NPS location as was described. Now a campsite and canoe rental at $77 a night
TravelerArrived at night on a weekday to find two other vehicles parked in the lot, srilll was able to find a fire ring with a level area relatively easy. Very quiet, just the sounds of owls hooting at night. Very nice mixed forest, seems managed well. It is somewhat buggy. But doesn’t seem to be overly infested with ticks at least.
The Hudson Valley surrounding Highland Falls sits at a low elevation of 144 feet above sea level, creating moderate temperature fluctuations compared to nearby higher elevations. Cell service improves at higher points but drops significantly in valleys and dense wooded areas at campgrounds. Most tent sites in this region require reservations 3-4 weeks in advance during summer weekends, with slightly more availability midweek.
Hiking the extensive trail networks: At Clarence Fahnestock State Park, located about 30 minutes from Highland Falls, visitors can access multiple difficulty levels of trails. "There's great hiking for all abilities. Free camping at stone shelters. Beautiful lakes all over the place," notes Meredith C. The park is particularly attractive in autumn with newly renovated paths.
Water activities on multiple lakes: Swimming and boating opportunities exist at several locations within 45 minutes of Highland Falls. "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. You can also rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity," explains Ethan K. about The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
Military history exploration: West Point's proximity creates unique opportunities for history enthusiasts. The West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area offers military families special access. "Military families should check it out! Bath houses are absolutely spotless. Fire pits, electric and water hook ups only," recommends Mindie C., though civilian access is restricted to military personnel and guests.
Platform camping options: Raised wooden platforms at several sites provide practical benefits during wet weather. "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," notes Ethan K. about Beaver Pond Campground.
Midweek tranquility: Weekday camping offers a drastically different experience from crowded weekends. "Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great. Expect to purchase firewood, although scrounging for kindling was possible," reports Rebecca S. about Beaver Pond Campground.
Proximity to NYC with natural seclusion: Several campgrounds balance accessibility with wilderness. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint. Free Hot showers in the bathrooms, with plenty of room to change," shares Megan B.
Site selection affects experience: Different sites within the same campground can provide drastically different camping experiences. "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site. This place can book up during camping season in the Northeast so make sure to book early in advance," advises Asher K. about Clarence Fahnestock State Park.
Communal facilities vary significantly: Bathroom facilities range from excellent to basic across the campgrounds near Highland Falls. "The park rangers told us the plumbing had been re-done in the past year, so the water fountains and water spigots were in great shape and provided cold, clear water. The bathrooms were clean and well-kept," reports Jess M.
Military-only restrictions: Some excellent camping options near Highland Falls restrict access to military personnel. "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," explains Ethan K.
Public transportation options: Several campgrounds offer accessibility without a vehicle. "When you are camping with a large group of friends and don't all have access to a car, this is the perfect spot. MetroNorth takes you right into Cold Spring, a charming, quaint town with antique shops and beautiful views of the Hudson. From there, it is a short drive to the campgrounds," advises Robyn S.
Kid-specific amenities: Jellystone Park Gardiner offers extensive family-focused facilities about 30 minutes from Highland Falls. "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.
Off-season benefits with children: Visiting just after Labor Day provides special access for campers. "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful. Great hikes," notes Courtney D. about Sebago Cabin Camp.
Hookup availability: Electric and water hookups exist at several campgrounds, but full hookups are limited. "This is an off-grid camping experience. You can use your generator at certain hours. They have a beach. Their staff is friendly. I love going here," describes Adaly about Beaver Pond Campground, where hookup sites cost $15.
Site privacy considerations: RV sites vary significantly in terms of privacy and space between neighbors. "The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together," notes Lee D. about Croton Point Park.
Navigation challenges: Many campgrounds near Highland Falls have narrow access roads. "The roads to the main sites also need some branch trimming," cautions April L. about the New York City North-Newburgh KOA, recommending "if staying here and concerned about branches I'd suggest one of the pull through sites. Specifically 138, 146 and 145 have a nice concrete patio and nicer firepit."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Highland Falls, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, Highland Falls, NY offers a wide range of camping options, with 137 campgrounds and RV parks near Highland Falls, NY and 4 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Highland Falls, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Highland Falls, NY is Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park with a 4.2-star rating from 40 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Highland Falls, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Highland Falls, NY.
Keep Exploring
