North Jersey and southeast New York offer multiple yurt camping options within 40-60 miles of Orangeburg. The region sits at the northern edge of the New Jersey Highlands, with elevations ranging from 400-1,800 feet. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, though some offer year-round cabin accommodations that provide shelter during winter months when temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking multiple trails: Mountain Lakes Park features several interconnected trails that lead to Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County. According to one visitor, "There are many hikes which can be trekked straight from the campgrounds which is always a huge plus in my mind. When we were there it was right after a rain storm and everything was a bit muddy and slippery."
Fishing in stocked lakes: At Stokes State Forest, campers can access multiple fishing spots on Lake Ocquittunk and nearby streams. As one reviewer noted, "Clear streams and lake. Stunning overall. Lake Ocquittunk campground had showers, flush toilets and was popular with families."
Military-only recreation: West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area offers swimming beaches and fishing for active and retired military personnel. A veteran camper shares, "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."
What campers like
Rustic camping options: Camp Glen Gray provides various accommodation types from basic tent sites to cabins and lean-tos. One reviewer explains, "Great Camp! One rustic place with many hiking trails to choose from. Camp also provides trucking of gear weather permitting. No vehicles allowed to drive through camp."
Platform tent sites: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation features raised wooden platforms for tent camping that keep equipment dry. A camper describes, "They have these 12x12 platforms to put your tent on. This was pretty cool especially since some of the sites are all gravel with surrounding dirt."
Secluded group areas: Many campsites offer designated group camping areas that provide privacy. According to a High Point State Park visitor, "The group campsites are big enough for the amount of people you can have, have picnic benches, a fire ring, a composting outhouse toilet just for the site, and one of those flat charcoal 'grills'."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: In more remote campgrounds, connectivity can be limited. A Round Pond visitor notes, "Just a note to other campers with T-Moblie, we did not have any service on the campsite, however just a hop in the car or a quick walk down the mountain for 5G service near the entrance off the main road."
Bear safety requirements: Most campgrounds in the region require proper food storage due to black bear populations. A reviewer at Stokes State Forest mentioned, "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided."
Yurt availability restrictions: Finding yurt camping near Orangeburg, New York often requires booking well in advance. Most yurts at High Point State Park Campground are reserved months ahead, especially during summer weekends. A camper points out, "Camping for summer is pretty limited to Sawmill Lake, as the other locations are for groups or winter camping."
Tips for camping with families
Trading post amenities: Some family-oriented campgrounds have stores with essential supplies. A Camp Glen Gray visitor mentions, "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."
Playground access: Campgrounds with play equipment offer additional recreation for children. A visitor to Round Pond noted, "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."
Group gathering spaces: For family reunions or larger gatherings, look for campgrounds with adequate space. One camper at Mahlon Dickerson explains, "Large wooded campsites with electric and water. It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some RV sites in the region require additional equipment for proper setup. A High Point State Park camper notes, "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. Showers are at the day use area, from 10-5:30, no trailer dump."
Hose length for water hookups: At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, water connections may require extra hoses. A reviewer explains, "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."
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer full RV services. An RVer at Mahlon Dickerson mentions, "Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point. Nice and easy little campground."
