Camping spots near Hastings-on-Hudson, New York sit within the diverse terrain of the Hudson Valley, where elevations range from river level to peaks exceeding 1,000 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons, with summer daytime temperatures typically reaching 80-85°F while dropping to 40-45°F in early spring and late fall. Tent camping platforms at several locations provide level foundations that remain dry during wet weather, a feature particularly valued at campgrounds within a 30-mile radius of Hastings.
What to do
Hiking through historic sites: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers over 40 miles of trails with Revolutionary War-era connections. "The trails in the area are friendly to hikers, bikers, and the non arthritic kneers, as most are rated moderate to challenging. Don't fret, trails that are rated easy and accessible to disabled are equally enjoyable and beautiful," notes one Beaver Pond Campground visitor.
Swimming in designated areas: Lake swimming opportunities are restricted to specific hours. "Only one or two bathrooms in the whole place so be prepared to go for a walk when you have to go. Scenery is also a little drab. On the bright side, there are lots of bunnies!" reports one camper about Croton Point Park.
Public transportation access: Several camping areas can be reached without a vehicle. "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)," explains a visitor to The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Raised camping platforms provide practical advantages in wet conditions. "The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. You definitely feel like you have your own space and are not camping on top of your neighbor. Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained," reports a camper who stayed at Beaver Pond.
Urban access with natural settings: Proximity to metropolitan areas combined with natural environments creates a unique camping experience. "Short distance from the NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," notes a visitor about Beaver Pond Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Animal sightings enhance the camping experience despite proximity to urban areas. "The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio," describes a camper at The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Sound travels between sites at some campgrounds, especially on weekends. "We stayed here on a Thursday night in September prior to taking off backpacking. The campground was clean and quiet. RV hook-ups, tent platforms, and rustic tent sites were available. Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy," reports a visitor to Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground.
Wildlife precautions: Bears and other wildlife are active in the camping areas. "Welcome to Bear Mountain" grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He is in his ranger hut, checking in the late evening arrivals to the campground... He offers us a highlighted map to our site, wishes us a good stay, and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area," explains a Beaver Pond visitor.
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds only accept in-person bookings. "There is no phone or internet reservations and has to be made in person at the office. I would recommend call earlier and come in few minutes earlier to 9 am when the office opens to find the best spots," advises a Ward Pound Ridge Reservation camper.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for privacy: Choose sites that provide separation from other campers. "The sites can be a bit tight, at times and you may find a few visitors, not necessarily on two legs, but always a delight. It's great to be among the trees away from the hustle and bustle of the city," explains a veteran camper about Beaver Pond.
Off-season benefits: Consider camping outside peak summer months for quieter experiences. "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. Expect to purchase firewood, although scrounging for kindling was possible," advises a Fahnestock visitor.
Food storage protocols: Proper food containment prevents wildlife encounters. "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night. Fire is allowed and has no issues of mosquitoes," warns a visitor to Camp Glen Gray.
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookups: Several locations offer powered sites with limitations. "We spent 3 nights here last week. I was in NYC for business and we took our RV. Very convenient location. The sites had electric and water and were in a fenced off section of the marina parking area," notes a visitor to Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Size limitations: Many campgrounds in the region restrict larger vehicles. "The parking for your car is 1/4 mile away but they allow you to unload and give you a wagon to take stuff to your site," explains a visitor to The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, highlighting infrastructure limitations common in the area.
Reservation timing: Advance booking is essential, especially for sites with utilities. "My partner and I spent July 4th weekend here this year. I had originally booked site 65 and upon arriving, was told there was an error in the system and it was double-booked. I would absolutely try to check your site before you get there because each site varied quite a bit from the other," advises a Clarence Fahnestock State Park visitor.
