Campers visiting Pleasantville, New York have access to a mix of primitive and developed campsites within a 30-mile radius. The area features elevations ranging from 200 feet along the Hudson River to over 1,300 feet at certain park locations, creating diverse camping environments. Summer temperatures typically reach 85°F with cooling evening temperatures around 65°F, while spring and fall camping offers milder daytime temperatures with cooler nights requiring additional layers.
What to do
Swimming and water activities: Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park offers access to Lake Welch, which features a supervised swimming beach during summer months. "A stones throw from NYC this beautiful area combines Lake Welch and Harriman State Park. This camp ground is laid back away from the busy activity of the big city. If you want to get away and relax you can come here to walk, swim and camp. The beach is secured with lifeguards and shower and bathroom facilities are available," notes Brian O. from Beaver Pond Campground.
Hiking opportunities: With over 40 miles of trails, Ward Pound Ridge Reservation provides extensive hiking options directly from campsites. "This is a great place for camping. The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience. The staff is friendly as well," reports Jeremy S. from Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.
Off-season exploration: Camping during shoulder seasons offers unique experiences with fewer crowds. "We stayed here on a Thursday night in September prior to taking off backpacking. The campground was clean and quiet. RV hook-ups, tent platforms, and rustic tent sites were available. 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 Rebecca S. from Beaver Pond Campground.
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Several campgrounds offer raised platform sites, which provide practical benefits during wet weather. "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. 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," says Ethan K.
Communal facilities: Campsites near Pleasantville often feature well-maintained shared areas for cooking and cleaning. "I also particularly enjoyed the communal sink which made it very convenient and easy to wash dishes and fill up water," mentions Ethan K. from Beaver Pond Campground.
Proximity to local attractions: Clarence Fahnestock State Park offers convenient access to nearby towns and activities. "If you are in to apple picking it is a short drive and it is easy to get into town to take the train to and from NYC. I highly recommend this place but check out the sites online to get one that is private," advises Asher K.
What you should know
Site variation: Campgrounds in the region have significant differences between individual sites. "This place has a nice open beach on Canopus Lake with a concession area and bathhouse, which we found to be quite clean! They even have boat rentals - or you can bring your own boat to launch! Almost all of the sites offered privacy.... Even when the campground was full," reports Shelly B. from Clarence Fahnestock State Park.
Wildlife considerations: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center and other area campgrounds require proper food storage. "They do have bear boxes available as this is bear country. Very well run campground and cabins," notes Thomas M.
Transportation options: Several campsites are accessible without a personal vehicle. "This campsite is accessible by public transportation. There is a shuttle run by the campsite to and from Tuxedo Park Train Station (reservations on shuttle required)," shares Ilya F. from The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
Tips for camping with families
Yurt camping options: For families seeking alternatives to tent camping, Mountain Lakes Park provides yurt accommodations. "A fun option available at Mountain lakes is to rent a yurt to camp in. The area, as the name implies, is home to several lakes which can be used for various recreational purposes," explains Ethan K.
Child-friendly amenities: Many local campgrounds feature facilities designed for younger campers. "Short distance from the NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," notes Zorina N. from Beaver Pond Campground.
Day trip opportunities: Family-friendly activities beyond camping are readily available near most sites. "We came in October to celebrate Halloween in sleepy hollow! This is a great campsite and reasonably priced. Was close to bear mountains state part and the train station is right there!" shares Wendy C. from Croton Point Park.
Tips from RVers
RV site configurations: West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area offers specific accommodations for larger vehicles. "Bath houses are absolutely spotless. Fire pits, electric and water hook ups only. Military families should check it out!" advises Mindie C.
Hook-up limitations: Campers should research utility availability before arrival. "This is an off-grid camping experience. You can use your generator at certain hours. Their staff is friendly. I love going here," explains Adaly from Beaver Pond Campground.
Spacing considerations: Site dimensions and privacy levels vary significantly between campgrounds. "Both the tenting section and RV sites are each very clustered together, and quite crowded, with regular patrols being made day and night," reports Paul K. from Croton Point Park.
