Camping spots near Orangeburg, New York offer diverse options within the Ramapo Mountains, where elevations range from 400 to 1,200 feet. The region features densely wooded sites amid oak, maple, and pine forests with granite bedrock outcroppings. Most camping areas sit within 40 miles of Orangeburg, providing campsites that range from basic tent platforms to full-service cabins with varying levels of amenities.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: At Clarence Fahnestock State Park, visitors can access multiple trail systems that connect to surrounding wilderness areas. "There are over 40 miles of trails in this area. Would definitely recommend for those who want to camp near NYC but not drive too far," notes a camper who visited Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.
Swimming in natural lakes: Several campgrounds feature lake access for summer recreation. "The park itself offers many of its own attractions, including swimming, hiking, kayaking, cabin rentals, and a host of other family-oriented activities just along the Hudson," explains a visitor to Croton Point Park. Swimming areas typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day with lifeguards.
Winter camping options: Some camping areas remain accessible year-round, including Ward Pound Ridge Reservation which maintains sites through winter. "Ive been coming here for years. 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," reports one camper.
Outdoor skill workshops: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center offers guided programs for wilderness skills and outdoor recreation. "They offer a meal plan (Option for breakfast, lunch, dinner) that you can get at their dining hall and I HIGHLY recommend that option. Worth the added cost," notes a visitor who appreciated the educational opportunities.
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Elevated wooden platforms at several campgrounds provide dry camping surfaces in all weather conditions. "Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained or if you are expecting rain during your stay," explains a visitor to Beaver Pond Campground. These platforms typically measure 12'x12' and accommodate standard tents.
Rustic cabins without crowds: Sebago Cabin Camp offers basic accommodations with some modern amenities. "These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge. You still feel like you are 'roughing it' but with the convenience of a fridge. Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING," reports one visitor who enjoyed the disconnected experience.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple camping areas provide chances to observe native animals. "There is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night," mentions one camper at Croton Point Park, while another notes, "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night."
Off-season tranquility: Many campgrounds become significantly quieter outside summer months. "We stayed here on a Thursday night in September prior to taking off backpacking. The campground was clean and quiet. 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," explains a Beaver Pond camper.
What you should know
Bear activity protocols: Areas within Harriman State Park require particular attention to food storage. "'Welcome to Bear Mountain' grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He is in his ranger hut, checking in the late evening arrivals to the campground... and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area. I mean, we are in Bear Mountain, what do you expect?!?" describes one visitor.
Campsite spacing variations: Privacy levels differ significantly between camping areas and individual sites. "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," reports one camper, while another mentions that at Camp Glen Gray, "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails."
Reservation deadlines: Many campgrounds require advance bookings, especially for weekends. At Sebago Cabin Camp, cabins often fill months in advance for summer weekends. One visitor notes these accommodations offer "a full fridge and double hot plate outside a fire pit and grill with table," making them popular options.
Noise levels vary by location: Some campgrounds experience significant ambient noise. "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," advises a Croton Point Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Camp Glen Gray provides dedicated play areas for children. "Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions," notes one family that visited regularly. Most family-oriented campgrounds maintain play equipment within walking distance of campsites.
Beach facilities: Several locations offer swimming areas with amenities for children. "Clean park with a place to swim but only within buoys and when a life guard is present," explains a visitor to Croton Point Park. Lifeguarded beaches typically operate from 10am-6pm during summer months.
Camp programs for children: Harriman State Park offers scheduled activities during peak season. "They do big bon fire on Saturday very kid friendly ranger Joe is good with the kids," shares a visitor who enjoyed the organized events at Sebago Cabin Camp. Weekend programming often includes nature walks and outdoor skill building.
Short hiking distances: Family-friendly trails connect many camping areas. "Short distance from the NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," reports a parent who visited Beaver Pond Campground with children, appreciating the connectivity and facilities.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV hookups: Most campgrounds offer only partial hookups. "We had a loosely defined gravel pad that was level. All sites appeared level. The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together," reports a visitor to Croton Point Park who stayed in an RV.
Size restrictions: Many camping areas cannot accommodate large recreational vehicles. "Expect to pay pretty good to be here, but from here you can pretty much easily get anywhere in NYC. Service is great and friendly," notes a visitor to Liberty Harbor RV Park, which allows larger vehicles but at premium rates.
