Camping options near Sloatsburg, New York include several state forests and private campgrounds within a 25-mile radius. The area sits at the gateway to Harriman State Park at elevations ranging from 300 to 1,300 feet, creating varied terrain for campers. Winter temperatures typically drop to 20-30°F while summer averages 75-85°F, with higher humidity levels from June through August.
What to do
Hiking to observation points: High Point State Park Campground offers access to numerous trails including the Monument Trail with a 1,803-foot elevation viewpoint. According to one visitor, "You can drive to High Point monument that is 1803 feet above sea level and you get a spectacular panorama view. There are hiking trails and fresh water for kayaking."
Petting farm animals: Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort maintains goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground area. One camper noted, "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool. Weekend was busy as usual but during the week it seems to be seasonal that stay."
Swimming in spring-fed lakes: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation features easily accessible swimming spots. A reviewer mentioned, "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful. Definitely come here when you get a chance."
Winter camping in cabins: Stokes State Forest offers winter cabin options with wood stoves for heating. As one winter camper described, "The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic. The wood stove definitely heats the room up nicely. I went through two bundles of wood in one night, and could have used more in the morning."
What campers like
Yurt and specialty accommodations: Near Sloatsburg, New York, yurt camping options include unique structures with panoramic views. At Moon Valley Campground, one camper mentioned, "Headed back for a fall weekend in the 'dome' which has incredible views. Try it you won't be sorry."
Military-only facilities: Some nearby camping areas cater exclusively to military personnel. A veteran at West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area shared, "We've been coming here for at least 13 years. We love that it's a place specifically for Vets and active Military. Everyone is amazingly respectful of each other and the caretakers take such care of the grounds."
Wooded, secluded sites: Camp Glen Gray offers rustic camping with more privacy than many public campgrounds. According to a reviewer, "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."
Platform tent sites: Many campgrounds in the region feature raised wooden platforms for tent setup. At High Point State Park, a camper observed, "Camping for summer is pretty limited to Sawmill Lake, as the other locations are for groups or winter camping. Camps are secluded from each other and most if not all have an elevated space to put tents or chairs."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: The region has active black bear populations requiring proper food storage. At Stokes State Forest, campers are reminded, "This is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes."
Limited water access: At many sites, running water is available only at central locations. One camper at High Point State Park noted, "No running water except for pump founded outside of the bathrooms. Toilets are pump flushed. Showers are only located INSIDE High Point State Park, not throughout the campsites."
Weekend noise levels: Some campgrounds experience significant noise during peak periods. A Kittatinny Campground visitor reported, "Busy campground no quiet time loud music till 3 in the morning. Very clean, workers very friendly and helpful but after dark no one around."
Site inclines and terrain: Many campsites in this mountainous region feature sloped surfaces. One camper at High Point State Park warned, "The photos did not convey the actual steepness of this site!! The gravel driveway is on a 30-40 degree incline. The tent was too long for the 12'x10' platform, so we had to set it up on the flattest part and hope not to roll down the hill."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Jellystone Park Gardiner offers specialized facilities for younger campers. A parent shared, "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. My older kids preferred a deeper pool but they still had a great time."
Animal interactions: Several campgrounds feature opportunities for children to observe wildlife. At Camp Glen Gray, families can expect, "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. Trading Post for treats and other items."
Playground access: Consider campsite location relative to play areas when booking. One Jellystone Park camper warned, "We got a red carpet site by the Gaga pit and near the water park (Cindy bear lane) and it was a convenient yet noisy site. Kids were at the playground 8 am or before and the noise woke us up."
Group site options: For family reunions or multi-family trips, look for designated group areas. A Kittatinny Campground visitor recommended, "My college friends go here each year to meet up and we have so much fun. The group sites are great and perfect for our 30-50 people."
Tips for RVers
Water connection lengths: Prepare for potentially long distances to hookups. One Mahlon Dickerson Reservation camper advised, "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."
Leveling challenges: Bring adequate leveling blocks for mountain terrain. A visitor to High Point State Park observed, "The 'trailer' sites aren't level. Showers are at the day use area, from 10-5:30, no trailer dump, website says laundry, but apparently not."
Traffic flow issues: Some campgrounds have restricted routes for large vehicles. A Pleasant Acres Farm camper noted, "When you leave you have to drive the wrong way in the campground because of the low hanging trees the correct direction."
Seasonal considerations: Many RV-friendly campgrounds in this region close during winter months. Check operating dates as most facilities like Kittatinny Campground only operate from "April 15 to October 15," while others like Mahlon Dickerson Reservation remain open year-round.
