Glamping sites near Pelham, New York provide secluded nature retreats within an hour's drive of the city. Northern Westchester and nearby New Jersey offer several elevated outdoor accommodations at elevations ranging from 300-1300 feet, with Mount Bailey standing as the highest point at 1,086 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F, while spring and fall provide milder camping conditions with occasional rainfall.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: At Panther Lake Camping Resort, visitors can fish and kayak in the namesake lake. "The lake and pool were a big plus, especially for hot days. While I did not take advantage, you are allowed to rent boats and take them out on the lake," notes one visitor who appreciated the water activities.
Hiking nearby trails: The region offers extensive hiking options from most glamping locations. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, "located in the Skylands of New Jersey," you can access "beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities. And yet it's only about a 15 minute drive to a large mall with movies, shopping, and restaurants," according to one reviewer.
Wildlife viewing: Natural settings around glamping sites provide wildlife viewing opportunities. "We really like this campground. Quiet and spacious... Police patrolled, and dog friendly," notes one visitor about Mahlon Dickerson. Another camper at Pleasant Acres Farm mentioned the "amazingly beautiful miniature horse that wonders around its huge pin located in the middle of the campground."
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: Many glamping options near Pelham offer well-separated accommodations. "The grounds were fairly large and each campsite gets their own space with decent privacy," notes a camper at Panther Lake. Another reviewer at Mahlon Dickerson appreciated that "the campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained amenities enhance the glamping experience. At West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area, "bath houses are absolutely spotless. Bath houses are absolutely spotless. Fire pits, electric and water hook ups only," according to a recent visitor. Another camper noted it's "beautiful but small-ish tent sites."
Unique accommodations: The region offers diverse glamping structures beyond standard canvas tents. Moon Valley Campground provides "an awesome spot for those who want to camp in luxury, with their awesome dome structures," while being "near the Appalachian trail while still only about an hour from Manhattan!"
What you should know
Military-only options: Several glamping options near Pelham require military affiliation. "Unfortunately for me, Round Pond is camping reserved for active and retired military personnel only," notes one visitor. Another camper appreciated this aspect: "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."
Variable cell service: Connectivity can be limited at some glamping sites. At Camp Glen Gray, a reviewer noted it's "like a black hole of signals there." At Round Pond, a camper shared: "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."
Seasonal considerations: Many glamping sites operate seasonally with varying availability. Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort operates from "Apr 1 - Oct 31," while Panther Lake's season runs "Apr 1 to Nov 1." Some campgrounds have limited availability on weekends versus weekdays, as one camper noted: "Weekend was busy as usual but during the week it seems to be seasonal that stay."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several glamping sites offer dedicated children's play areas. A visitor to Pleasant Acres Farm noted there is "a small playground, a mini golf, and a large dog walk." Another camper mentioned it offers "great family fun" with "plenty to occupy the kids. Playground, hayride, animals to feed (goats, chickens, donkey and pony)."
Swimming opportunities: Water activities provide family entertainment at many locations. At Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort, "they have nice facilities like a great swimming pool," while at Round Pond, a reviewer appreciated that "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."
Activity planning: Organized events enhance family glamping experiences. One visitor to Pleasant Acres noted "They offer several planned activities for kids," while another mentioned "There were some organized activities which was nice, not as much as a Jellystone Park." A Camp Glen Gray camper appreciated that "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."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV pads vary across glamping locations. At Mahlon Dickerson, "The campsites are paved and mostly level," while at Pleasant Acres Farm, sites were described as "not well maintained, weedy, un-level and picnic tables are weathered and warped."
Utility connections: Hook-up availability differs between sites. A reviewer at Mahlon Dickerson noted: "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."
Waste disposal: Access to trash facilities varies considerably. At Pleasant Acres, a camper warned: "Trash is located off site in a pullout on the road you drive in on," while another noted "The garbage situation was the worst... This place had their garbage and recycling very far away and without a golf cart (which they had none to offer) or a car, you're stuck."
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