Camping options near Highland Mills, New York range from primitive tent sites to premium cabins throughout the Hudson Valley and neighboring New Jersey. The region sits within the Ramapo Mountains at elevations between 800-1,400 feet, creating moderate summer temperatures and colorful fall foliage. Winter camping remains available at select locations, with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Stokes State Forest offers 21 marked trails covering over 63 miles, including 12 miles of the Appalachian Trail. "The area was incredibly peaceful in December with many cabin reservations abandoned due to rain in the forecast. It did rain, but was still a great trip," notes one visitor to Stokes State Forest.
Family water activities: The region's lakes and ponds provide swimming, fishing and paddling opportunities during summer months. At Jellystone Park Gardiner, "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."
Mountain views: Several parks offer scenic overlooks and summit access. High Point State Park features the highest elevation in New Jersey at 1,803 feet. According to one camper, "You can drive to High Point monument that is 1803 feet above sea level and you get a spectacular panorama view."
What campers like
Military-exclusive access: Two recreation areas provide dedicated camping for service members. At West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area, "We've been coming here for at least 13 years. We love that its a place specifically for Vets and active Military. everyone is amazingly respectful of each other and the caretakers take such care of the grounds."
Proximity to NYC: Many campgrounds offer wilderness experiences within reasonable driving distance from urban areas. "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. Lots of great hiking in the area in addition to beautiful Cold Spring, NY for the small-town charm," writes a visitor to Round Pond.
Kid-focused activities: Some campgrounds specialize in family entertainment options. One Jellystone Park camper reports, "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."
What you should know
Weekend noise levels: Some campgrounds experience significant activity during peak times. At Kittatinny Campground, "Busy campground no quiet time loud music till 3 in the morning. Very clean, workers very friendly and helpful but after dark no one around. If you looking for a peaceful campground not the place to go."
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity requires proper food storage throughout the region. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes," notes a camper at Stokes State Forest.
Seasonal restrictions: Most glamping near Highland Mills, New York operates between April and October, with limited winter availability. Specific opening dates vary by location, with Jellystone Park Gardiner operating from "Apr 16 - Nov 1" according to their listing information.
Tips for camping with families
Rustic cabin options: Several parks offer cabin rentals with varying amenities. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, cabins come equipped with basic amenities. One visitor to Camp Glen Gray reports, "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."
Platform tent sites: Many campgrounds feature raised wooden platforms for tent setup. "We stayed at the campsite at Lake Ocquittunk Area. Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents," explains a visitor to Stokes State Forest.
Bathroom accessibility: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. At Jellystone Park, one camper observed, "Very few for the number of sites and people it covers. They need to add more bathrooms... The showers didn't have enough water pressure, 2 out of 6 had only hot water."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary by location. At High Point State Park Campground, "So, we got in with no reservation, which was great. It's in the same park as the high point, also great. The sites are varied, some have tent platforms, it's just off the AT, but we have a trailer and the 'trailer' sites aren't level."
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds cannot accommodate larger RVs. "Very clean and quiet. 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," reports a camper at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Limited dumping facilities: Not all campgrounds offer full service hookups. "No trailer dump, website says laundry, but apparently not. All in all, serviceable and fine, but very much just here for the high point," notes an RVer at High Point State Park.
