Cabin accommodations in the Tomkins Cove area range from rustic forest shelters to deluxe lakefront structures. Located in the Hudson Highlands region where elevations reach 1,300 feet, cabin options provide shelter through variable weather conditions including summer thunderstorms and occasional winter snow. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, making heated cabin options particularly valuable during colder months.
What to do
Lake activities: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center offers water recreation on their private lake. "You can also rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity," notes one visitor who recommends the site for summer stays.
Historical exploration: Visit the nearby High Point Monument for panoramic views. A camper at High Point State Park explains, "We took one afternoon to visit the High Point Monument, which was lovely," making it a worthwhile side trip from cabin accommodations.
Family games: Jellystone Park Gardiner provides structured recreation including laser tag. "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," reports a parent who visited with children.
Seasonal events: Attend weekend activities at cabin campgrounds throughout the region. "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends," making it popular for extended stays.
What campers like
Lakefront locations: Several cabin options provide direct water access. A visitor to Croton Point Park appreciated "a private beach which is opened from Wednesday to the weekend with life guards on duty," offering controlled swimming areas.
Meal services: Some facilities provide dining options beyond self-catering. At Harriman Outdoor Center, a camper highlighted "having meals cooked by the stellar chef. The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio."
Digital disconnection: Limited connectivity creates forced relaxation at many cabins near Tomkins Cove. One visitor valued the "absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING."
Platforms and structures: Many cabin camping locations feature elevated sleeping areas. A camper at Camp Glen Gray reported, "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Military-only facilities have specific eligibility rules. A visitor to West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area explained, "This is a military-only campground but, that doesn't take away from how incredible it is and that is properly advertised."
Facility limitations: Bathroom access varies significantly between cabin locations. At Croton Point Park, one camper warned about "Only one or two bathrooms in the whole place so be prepared to go for a walk when you have to go."
Varied amenities: Cabin furnishings differ substantially between locations. Many offer refrigeration but limited cooking facilities. "These do not have plumbing or heat. It is a step up from cabin camping," explained one visitor describing the rustic cabins.
Transportation options: Some locations offer shuttle service to public transit. Harriman Outdoor Center provides "a shuttle run by the campsite to and from Tuxedo Park Train Station (reservations on shuttle required)," making it accessible without a car.
Tips for camping with families
Noise considerations: Assess quiet hours enforcement when booking with children. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, a visitor appreciated that "It is so quiet here. No amenities or extras here, just really pleasant camping in the woods."
Activity planning: Look for cabins with structured programming for different age groups. "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," shared a parent at Jellystone Park.
First-timer friendly: Some locations specialize in introducing newcomers to outdoor experiences. A visitor to Croton Point Park reported success: "I took my 5 year-old son and wife, all of us first time campers. This place was great."
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity requires proper food storage at many cabin locations. "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night," warned one experienced camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research exact site conditions before booking. At High Point State Park Campground, a camper warned about "deceptive photography on reservation website" and described finding "the gravel driveway is on a 30-40 degree incline."
Utility access: Water connection logistics vary significantly between parks. At Mahlon Dickerson, a visitor noted, "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that."
Cabin alternatives: Consider RV sites adjacent to cabins for mixed-accommodation groups. "We had a very peaceful visit and will definitely go back," reported an RV camper who appreciated having playground facilities within sight of their camper.
