The camping experience near Unionville, New York offers diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,800 feet across the region's state forests and private campgrounds. Set in the foothills where New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania meet, campsites typically enjoy moderate summer temperatures between 75-85°F during peak camping season from May through October.
What to do
Hiking to panoramic views: From High Point State Park Campground, access trails connecting directly to the Appalachian Trail for day hikes. "I stopped at this shelter while hiking the AT in High Point SP. It was raining the entire day and the shelter provided a dry place to take a break," writes Richard M. The park offers multiple trail difficulties with the Monument Trail providing access to the 1,803-foot summit.
Fishing in stocked waters: At Stokes State Forest, anglers can fish in several designated areas. "Clear streams and lake. Stunning overall. Lake Ocquittunk campground had showers, flush toilets and was popular with families," notes Stephanie T. Fishing licenses required and available online through NJ Fish & Wildlife.
Winter camping options: Unlike many seasonal facilities, some sites remain open year-round. "Rented a cabin in November (#009) and again in December (#008) of 2021. I favored Cabin 8, the kitchen and bathroom were separated from the main room," shares W L. from Stokes State Forest. Cabins include wood stoves which "definitely heats the room up nicely."
What campers like
Secluded woodland sites: Shotwell offers more remote camping experiences. "To get there, you have to drive about 2 miles down a road away from the welcome center. This is nice because it is quiet from traffic from cars. Each campsite is fairly big and far enough away from each other so you feel like you have your own space," reports Ethan K.
Swimming opportunities: Several campgrounds offer natural swimming areas. "I spent two nights camping with my niece and this campground was perfect... 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," writes Justin P. about his stay at High Point State Park.
Camping platforms: Many tent sites include elevated platforms for more comfortable setups. "Some of the sites had a platform to set up your tent on which is nice, especially if you are going after it recently rained," explains a camper at Shotwell. These platforms help keep tents dry during rainy periods and provide a level sleeping surface.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: This region is active bear country. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided," warns one experienced camper. Some campgrounds like Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort provide bear-proof garbage facilities, but campers should bring appropriate food storage containers.
Variable site quality: Site conditions vary significantly. "The campsites are not well maintained, weedy, un-level and picnic tables are weathered and warped," reports one visitor to Pleasant Acres. At Stokes State Forest, another camper notes, "Most of the campsites were very rocky, but you can find some that have a little bit of grass."
Limited water access: Many primitive sites require planning ahead. "The campground has a pit toilet and a well. Each large campsite has a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern hook," notes a camper at Steam Mill Camping Area. Sites without hookups typically have communal water sources requiring jugs or containers.
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters: Kymers Camping Resort offers family-friendly wildlife interactions. "This is a family friendly, camper-friendly place. Lots of seasonals- everyone waves, everyone stops to chat. This is what a campground should feel like," writes Jessica D. The resort features a brook that "flows adjacent to the property. It's peaceful & magical."
Playground options: Some facilities offer better play equipment than others. "The playground definitely needs to be replaced. It was more like a few metal bars for hanging. But they had a jump blob thing my kids loved," notes Aliceon W. about Neversink River Resort. Consider bringing portable games if playground quality matters to your family.
Quieter weekdays: For families seeking peaceful experiences, timing matters. "We came on a Friday night. 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," observed Adeline M. at Stokes State Forest.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers RV accommodations but preparation is needed. "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station," reports Jeff W. However, other campgrounds may require significant leveling equipment - check campground descriptions carefully.
Water hose considerations: Many parks provide extended water access solutions. "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," shares a visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, indicating you may not need extra-long hoses.
Dump station availability: Most parks with RV accommodations offer dump stations but with limited hours. "Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City," notes Nancymike K. about Mahlon Dickerson. Always check dump station locations and operating times when booking, as some smaller campgrounds have limited facilities.
