Camping options near Thiells, New York span both Rockland and Westchester counties, with elevation ranging from 500 to 1,300 feet throughout the region. Most sites operate from April through October, though select locations like Croton Point Park remain open year-round. Weekend reservations typically require booking 3-6 months in advance during peak summer season due to proximity to New York City.
What to do
Swimming at Welch Lake: During summer months, Beaver Pond Campground offers access to nearby Welch Lake where lifeguards monitor a sandy beach. "Great location and quick to get to from NYC. 45 minute drive and location has a lot of amenities... Hike trails are all over the place and the lake is nearby," notes Kelvin in a review.
Historic hiking: The area around Ward Pound Ridge Reservation contains over 40 miles of trails through varying terrain. One camper explains, "There is elevation gain, creeks, and open fields for stargazing. You have the options of a lean to here." Revolutionary War-era sites dot the landscape throughout the region.
Rock scrambling: For experienced hikers, Suffern-Bear Mountain from Gate Hill Road Primitive offers challenging terrain leading to primitive campsites. "At one point of the trail is a very difficult, but doable, rock scramble up the side of the mountain. At the top of the scramble is a primitive camping site with amazing views," reports Ethan K.
What campers like
Platform camping: Many sites at The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center feature elevated tent platforms. "I camped on one of the platforms, which was very nice and did not feel crowded even with other people on neighboring platforms," reports Ilya F. Platforms keep tents dry during wet weather.
Seasonal quietness: Mid-week and off-season camping provides more solitude. At Fahnestock State Park, one reviewer noted: "We stayed here on a Thursday night in September prior to taking off backpacking. The campground was clean and quiet... 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."
Proximity to NYC: Most campsites in the region sit within 30-60 minutes of the city limits. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," writes Megan B. about Beaver Pond Campground.
What you should know
Bear activity: Wildlife management is a priority throughout the region. "The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping," advises Kelvin about Beaver Pond Campground. Several parks require use of provided bear boxes.
Accessibility options: Croton Point Park provides a mix of camping accommodations with varying accessibility. "They have cabins and RV sites and now that the Tapan Zee bridge work is done most of them are now open again as the bridge workers have moved out," explains Andrew A.
Variable site privacy: Campsite layout varies significantly between parks and within individual campgrounds. "The camping sites are very different so it's useful to go in person and select the area. Parking is close, but some of the sites are also pretty close to each other so there is less privacy," writes Susana M. about Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several locations feature dedicated family facilities. At Croton Point Park, "It's a good park/camp for groups. They have cabins and RV sites... There is a model airplane air field and a decent playground for young kids."
Educational options: Camp Glen Gray offers structured experiences for children. "Great Camp!!! One rustic place with many hiking trails to choose from. Camp also provides trucking of gear weather permitting... Trading Post for treats and other items," notes Jose N.
Swimming safety: Designated swimming areas with lifeguards operate at multiple locations. "The new docks around the swimming area create a safer swimming experience for even the most inexperienced swimmers, allowing them safe and obvious perimeters," explains one reviewer about Lake Frederick.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Full-hookup RV sites remain scarce in the immediate Thiells area. One exception is Sebago Cabin Camp which offers electric options, though no water hookups. A reviewer notes: "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day."
Size restrictions: Most campgrounds in the region have limited space for larger rigs. "This camp is run by AMC (The Appalachian Mountain Club), you don't have to be a member to use the facility but you get better rates... No RV and campers allowed," explains Thomas M. about one Harriman State Park location.
Generator policies: Noise regulations affect generator use throughout the area. At Beaver Pond, generators are prohibited entirely, while some other locations allow limited daytime operation. "You can use your generator at certain hours," notes one camper about a nearby park.
