Jellystone Park Gardiner offers cabin camping experiences with family-focused amenities on 70 wooded acres of Hudson Valley terrain. The elevation of 282 feet provides views of the Shawangunk Ridge and Mohonk Mountain. Temperatures range from summer highs in the 80s to cool evenings in the 60s, making this an ideal base for exploring the surrounding forests and waterways through multiple accommodation types including yurts.
What to do
Family-friendly events: Throughout camping season at Jellystone Park Gardiner, activities run almost continuously. "This campground is great for kids. It has a event just about every weekend with kid activity," notes Jennifer I. The schedule typically includes themed weekends from spring through fall.
Water activities: The camping area at Thousand Trails Rondout Valley provides access to water recreation. "The creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish," writes Kasey M. Several water features including streams and small lakes dot the region.
Hiking options: Multiple trail systems connect through the region with varying difficulty levels. At High Point State Park, about 35 miles from Marlboro, "We fit in a hike up to the Appalachian Trail from our campsite, swam at the pond (Lake Marcia), and got in a fishing session at Steeny Kill Lake," reports Justin P. Most trails open by 7am and close at dusk.
What campers like
Private accommodations: The Osa Trail offers secluded yurt camping near Marlboro, New York with minimal neighboring sites. "Had a great time here with my wife and 2 little kids and our dog. One of the most beautiful sunrises we've ever seen! Very secluded, though Alex is right down the driveway so didn't feel like the middle of nowhere," explains John F.
Kid-friendly facilities: West Point FMWR Round Pond Recreation Area maintains well-designed play areas. "We were very impressed with the playground on site! Unfortunately, due to our early start in the camping season the weather did not allow us to enjoy fishing or the beach or water hook ups, however all areas looked well maintained," shares Jacey H.
Pool amenities: The swimming facilities at Jellystone Park get consistently positive feedback. "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," says Amanda S. The pools typically open at 10am during summer months.
What you should know
Military-only options: Two campgrounds near Marlboro restrict access to military personnel. West Point FMWR Lake Frederick Outdoor Recreation Area maintains strict eligibility requirements. "Yes, this is a military-only campground but, that doesn't take away from how incredible it is and that is properly advertised," notes Heather M.
Bathroom facilities: Campground bathrooms vary widely in quality and maintenance. At Thousand Trails Rondout Valley, some reviews mention concerns: "They have loads of events over the weekend but the weekend hasn't happened yet to check them out. Originally I thought it was the gloom of the weather that made this place seem pretty plain and run down," says Sammii D.
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the region operate from April through November. Round Pond Recreation Area typically closes water hookups during colder periods. As Jacey H. notes, "Unfortunately, due to our early start in the camping season the weather did not allow us to enjoy fishing or the beach or water hook ups."
Tips for camping with families
Reserve early for weekends: Popular family sites at Kittatinny Campground fill quickly during summer months. "The most beautiful campsite ever. Don't cheap out. Get the tubing package as well. Also love their camp store!" recommends Kendra P. Bookings open 11 months in advance for most sites.
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds become quite active, especially during weekends. "This place is great for kids or diverse groups that all want to do different things. It's very family themed and fun for everyone. However, it can end up being as crowded as an amusement park depending on when you go," cautions Carrie J. at Jellystone Park.
Pack for varying temperatures: Evening temperatures can drop significantly even during summer months. Lake Waramaug State Park campers note the need for layered clothing: "Sites are HUGE. Bathrooms, water, showers are close by. You will almost always have a view of the water," observes Katrina M.
Tips from RVers
Site selection concerns: At Lake Waramaug State Park Campground, RVers should research site dimensions carefully. "Every campsite has deep drainage ditches, likely roots, and stumps as well, but not too much pine in the immediate vicinity to make a mess of your gear," mentions Mo S. Most sites accommodate units up to 35 feet.
Transportation considerations: Some campgrounds restrict vehicle types or charge for additional transportation. At Jellystone Park, "Love it here but renting a golf cart is prob not the best option $175 for 2 days and it only goes 5mph I can walk faster than that," comments Scott.
Full hookup limitations: Several campgrounds offer only partial hookups. Thousand Trails Rondout Valley provides varying levels of service. "Nice, quiet place. Our site was up front and we didn't venture into the park. We did use the laundry room, which needed some updates, especially some lighting," says Jason E.
