Glamping sites near Sparkill, New York offer diverse accommodations within the Hudson Valley region, where elevations range from sea level to over 1,000 feet at nearby High Point Monument. Most sites are accessible from April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and occasional thunderstorms. Winter camping options exist at select locations like Stokes State Forest, where temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking trails and wilderness access: Mountain Lakes Park features several lakes perfect for outdoor recreation and hiking opportunities. According to one visitor, "Mountain Lakes park is a great place to camp within driving distance from NYC... There are also many hikes which can be trekked straight from the campgrounds which is always a huge plus in my mind." The park offers trails that connect directly to camping areas for convenient access.
Water activities on multiple lakes: High Point State Park provides access to various bodies of water for recreation. A camper noted, "We fit in a hike up to the Appalachian Trail from our campsite, swam at the pond (Lake Marcia), and got in a fishing session at Steeny Kill Lake." The park offers multiple water recreation options within driving distance of each other.
Historic sites and monuments: The region contains significant landmarks worth exploring. "We took one afternoon to visit the High Point Monument, which was lovely," mentions one visitor to the area. The monument stands at 1,803 feet above sea level and provides panoramic views of the surrounding tri-state area.
What campers like
Diverse accommodation options: Camp Glen Gray offers various camping structures to suit different needs. A 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... Many camp sites open to rent. Cabins - Leanto - Tent Sites."
Secluded campsites: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides spacious sites with natural separation. One camper described, "Large wooded campsites with electric and water. It's beautiful and quiet, and close to 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."
Military-focused facilities: For those with military connections, dedicated camping areas provide exclusive access. A visitor to West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area shared, "We've been coming here for at least 13 years. 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... Beautiful views, clean bathrooms, and nice trails."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping locations near Sparkill require advance booking, particularly during peak summer months. Some sites like Jellystone Park operate seasonally, from April 16 to November 1.
Facility variations: Bathroom and shower facilities differ significantly between locations. At Stokes State Forest, "There are four campgrounds that are all pretty different, we stayed at Shotwell across from the pond. For the most part, each campsite has its own porta potty or it shared with a couple other sites. At the entrance of the campground, there is a bathhouse with running water, bathrooms, and potable water."
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant seasonal changes. One Mountain Lakes Park visitor noted, "When we were there it was right after a rain storm and everything was a bit muddy and slippery." Pack appropriate footwear and rain gear, especially during spring and fall visits.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-focused amenities: Jellystone Park Gardiner specializes in family entertainment. 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 there they have lasertag which they enjoy. And a bounce pillow."
Noise levels and quiet times: Consider location carefully if traveling with young children who need consistent sleep. At some locations, noise can be an issue: "Everyone was up pretty late, but was not crazy loud. The rest of the weekend it seemed like everyone's simmered down. The campground was full of mostly families."
Platform camping options: Several parks offer raised platforms for tent setup. At High Point State Park, "Each place comes with a lamp hang, a fire pit, and a picnic table. Camps are secluded from each other and most if not all have an elevated space to put tents or chairs."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary significantly between glamping locations close to Sparkill, New York. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, one RVer 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."
Site leveling challenges: Some parks have terrain issues for larger vehicles. As one RVer explained about High Point State Park, "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, website says laundry, but apparently not."
RV size limitations: Not all glamping areas accommodate larger recreational vehicles. While some parks like Jellystone are big-rig friendly, others have size restrictions or challenging access roads that may require advance planning.
