Best Campgrounds near Lake Mohegan, NY
State parks and forests surrounding Lake Mohegan, New York feature diverse camping options within an hour's drive of New York City. Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground in Carmel offers both tent and RV sites with electric hookups, operating from April through early December. Harriman State Park's Beaver Pond Campground provides lakeside camping with access to swimming beaches and hiking trails, including sections of the Appalachian Trail. Croton Point Park on the Hudson River remains open year-round with tent, RV, and cabin accommodations. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation features more manicured grounds with lean-to and tent sites, appealing to families seeking accessible outdoor experiences.
Reservations are essential during summer weekends at most campgrounds in the region, with many sites booking up weeks in advance. As one camper noted about Fahnestock State Park, "Weekends this park is FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!" Bear activity requires proper food storage throughout the area, particularly in Harriman State Park where rangers regularly warn campers about wildlife encounters. Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds, with better coverage at locations closer to towns. Spring and fall offer more availability and comfortable temperatures, though facilities like showers may be limited during shoulder seasons.
Waterfront sites consistently receive the highest ratings from visitors, particularly at Croton Point Park where campers praise the "breathtaking" Hudson River views and private beach access. According to one review, "Tent sites are very private with some dirt roads to exit out but that's what makes it unique!" Several campgrounds feature wooden tent platforms, which campers appreciate for keeping equipment dry and level. Proximity to hiking trails ranks as another key highlight, with Beaver Pond Campground offering immediate access to numerous trailheads. Weekday visitors report significantly quieter experiences than weekend campers, with one reviewer noting Mills Norrie State Park is "deserted during the week but packed on weekends."
