Best Campgrounds near Stony Point, NY
The Stony Point area in New York's Hudson Valley region provides access to numerous established campgrounds including Harriman State Park's Beaver Pond Campground and Sebago Cabin Camp. Located approximately 40 minutes north of New York City, the area features diverse camping options ranging from platform tent sites and primitive backcountry spots to developed campgrounds with amenities for RVs and family campers. Harriman State Park offers both drive-in camping at established sites and backcountry camping opportunities along hiking trails such as the Appalachian Trail. Several campgrounds in the area also provide cabin accommodations, including the Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center and West Point FMWR facilities.
Camping in the region typically operates seasonally, with most developed campgrounds open from April through October, though some facilities like Croton Point Park remain open year-round. Reservations are highly recommended, particularly for summer weekends when sites fill quickly. The area features numerous hiking trails connecting to camping areas, with some primitive sites requiring hikes of 1-2 miles from trailheads. Many campgrounds prohibit alcohol, and visitors should be prepared for wildlife encounters including bears. "Travelers should be aware that most of the camping in Harriman is more backcountry-esque. Hike in, set up camp, move to a new spot and so on. Beautiful area with great hiking trails. Good for all seasons," notes one frequent visitor.
Campers consistently mention the natural beauty and proximity to water as major draws. Lake Welch near Beaver Pond Campground provides swimming opportunities during summer months, while trails throughout the region offer scenic views of the Hudson River Valley. Sites vary significantly in terms of privacy and noise levels, with some reviewers noting that certain campgrounds can become quite crowded during peak season. Platform tent sites receive positive mentions for staying dry during wet weather, and many sites feature fire rings and picnic tables. A recent review highlighted: "For campsites, there are two experiences. There is a main grid of campsites that are really right next to each other with little seclusion, while other sites had spacing and privacy between them." Many visitors appreciate the area's accessibility from New York City while still providing a genuine outdoor experience.