Cabin camping near Southfields, New York provides access to the Ramapo Mountains region at elevations averaging 800-1,000 feet. The area features mixed hardwood forests with oak, maple, and birch trees surrounding several lakes and ponds. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, while summer nights maintain comfortable sleeping temperatures in the 50s-60s even when daytime highs reach the upper 80s.
What to do
Hiking trails: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center offers access to numerous trails. "Great trails to hike for novices looking to branch out but not too large that you'll be lost forever," notes a camper. Another visitor mentioned, "You are able to do a hike around the lake" which provides scenic views and moderate terrain suitable for most ability levels.
Swimming and beach access: Sebago Cabin Camp features excellent swimming options. "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day," shares one visitor. For alternative swimming options, another camper advises, "Don't expect to swim on site- go to Lake Welch near by!"
Canoe and kayak rentals: Water recreation options abound at many cabin sites. "You can also rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity," notes a visitor to the AMC Harriman Center. Several locations offer equipment rentals during summer months with hourly or daily rates.
What campers like
Platform camping options: Several locations offer raised platforms for tents or shelters. One visitor to The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center mentioned, "I camped on one of the platforms, which was very nice and did not feel crowded even with other people on neighboring platforms." Platforms keep tents dry during wet weather and provide stable, level surfaces.
Meal options: Some cabin locations provide dining facilities. "One highlight was having meals cooked by the stellar chef. The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio," shares an AMC Harriman visitor. Another camper recommended, "They offer a meal plan (Option for breakfast, lunch, dinner) that you can get at their dinning hall and I HIGHLY recommend that option. Worth the added cost."
Scheduled activities: Croton Point Park offers regular community events. "This is state park, very large nested on Peninsula on the Hudson River," notes one visitor. For families, Jellystone Park Gardiner has themed weekends: "This campground has a lot of activities and has kids of all ages galore. I was worried my 12 year old would be too old for it but he enjoyed making friends there."
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Most cabin facilities have poor or nonexistent cell service. Visitors should plan accordingly by downloading maps and bringing physical copies of important information.
Noise considerations: Camp Glen Gray provides a quiet setting but some parks experience noise issues. One Croton Point camper noted, "The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm." At busier locations, request sites away from common areas if seeking solitude.
Transportation access: Some facilities offer shuttle services. "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)," reports an AMC Harriman visitor. Most locations require personal vehicles to access.
Bear safety protocols: Wildlife precautions are essential. "They do have bear boxes available as this is bear country," notes an AMC visitor. Proper food storage is mandatory at all cabin locations in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Jellystone Park Gardiner specializes in family programming. "They have both cabins for rent and camping spots on platforms which are great, especially when it rains," mentions a visitor. Another notes, "It has a event just about every weekend with kid activity."
Ranger programs: Several parks offer educational opportunities. "Ranger Joe is 👌 with the kids and they have 🔥 wood for purchase on site," notes a Sebago visitor. Weekly ranger-led activities often include nature walks, crafts, and campfire programs.
Playground proximity: Some cabins offer convenient access to play areas. One Croton Point visitor observed, "There is a model airplane air field and a decent playground for young kids." When booking, ask for cabins within sight of playgrounds for easier supervision.
Movie nights: Communal entertainment occurs at select locations. A Sebago visitor mentioned, "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers well-separated spaces. "The sites are spaced well and have a nice bonus of large fire rings set back in the woods a bit from the pad that you park on," notes a visitor. Another mentions, "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large."
Hook-up logistics: Water connections require planning at some locations. "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," shares a Mahlon Dickerson visitor.
Alternative lodging options: Cabins provide comfort for non-RV travelers. "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," describes a Sebago camper. Another notes, "Most cabins have 2rooms with 4cots but some are larger inside has a full fridge and double hot plate outside a 🔥 pit and grill with table."
Military-only options: West Point FMWR Round Pond Recreation Area serves military personnel. "Unfortunately for me, Round Pond is camping reserved for active and retired military personnel only," explains a visitor. However, eligible visitors praise it: "Beautiful but small-ish tent sites. Lots of great hiking in the area in addition to beautiful Cold Spring, NY for the small-town charm."
