Tent camping near Unionville, New York ranges from 800 to 1,500 feet elevation with summer temperatures typically between 55-85°F. The area lies within the Ridge and Valley region of the Appalachian Mountains, characterized by parallel ridges and narrow valleys. Fall camping season extends into late October when nights regularly drop below 40°F, requiring campers to prepare for significant temperature swings.
What to do
Trail connectivity for hikers: Steam Mill Campground in Stokes State Forest connects directly to the Blue Loop Trail with access to the Appalachian Trail. One camper notes "I made a fairly easy 9-mile loop this time. There are many connecting trails in Stokes and connecting to High Point State Park that can make for a harder/longer hike."
Waterfall exploration: Sandyston Boat In Campsites provides river access to multiple waterfalls. "Within minutes on the Pennsylvania side of the river you can hike to Raymondskill Falls, (one of many in easy walking distance), as well as search for abandoned/forgotten homes and mills, (some of which date back to the 1700's)," according to one review.
Water activities: Lake swimming and paddling options extend beyond the Delaware River. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center offers rentals and lake access. "You can also rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity," mentions a visitor who stayed on one of their camping platforms.
What campers like
Island camping experience: Namanock Island provides a unique water-access camping option. A regular visitor describes: "Camping on the island is such a treat. You totally feel that your party is alone out on the river, the entire world is yours and yours alone. There are no public interactions, (beyond the neighboring sites), on the river for miles."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds in the area offer chances to see local wildlife. At Steam Mill Campground, campers report seeing "deer, doves, robins, woodpeckers, quail(?), chipmunks, squirrels, skunk(?), and heard frogs" during their stay.
Lake views and sunset spots: Kittatinny Valley State Park Campground has select sites with premium views. One camper recommends: "Site A is the best for seclusion and a spot closer to the lake (also amazing sunsets)."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Bears are active throughout the camping areas near Unionville. A Steam Mill Campground camper advises: "There are bears in this area, and while I've not seen one in the campground, I have seen them on the trails while staying here. I store my food in my car overnight and toss garbage bags in the dumpster nightly as well."
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Many tent sites offer minimal amenities. For river camping at Sandyston Boat In Campsites, "It is primitive camping, so no facilities for waste, water, or anything that you did not pack in with you."
Water access challenges: Getting to boat-in sites requires planning for water conditions. A Namanock Island camper warns: "Spring time trips can find the water levels much higher and swifter making it more difficult to arrive safely, or dry."
Site spacing considerations: Campsite proximity varies significantly between locations. At Steam Mill Campground, "Sites are separated with enough trees to feel that no one is on top of each other, but near enough to see others."
Tips for camping with families
Cabin alternatives for mixed groups: Sebago Cabin Camp offers options for families with members who prefer not to tent camp. "It is great if you are going with a group/family and people want to sleep inside a cabin as oppose to a tent outside," notes one visitor who found the cabin setup practical despite being "more on the pricier end."
Activity planning: Families enjoy the organized events at some campgrounds. A Sebago visitor mentioned, "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too."
Facilities assessment: For families with younger children, bathroom facilities matter. Wawayanda State Park Campground has mixed reviews, with some guests driving elsewhere for better options: "10 minute drive to flush toilets and showers at lake campground, 20 minute drive to main state park and office."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most campgrounds in the Unionville area restrict RV size significantly. Moon Valley Campground and similar sites are best suited for smaller rigs. Even at Elks Brox Memorial Park, a visitor cautions: "I would not drive an RV in here except maybe a small type trailer."
Alternative parking options: For RVers wanting to experience tent sites, some campgrounds offer solutions. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center provides accommodation: "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."
Power considerations: Most tent-focused sites near Unionville lack hookups. For RVers requiring electricity, Sebago offers limited options with "rustic cabins. These do not have plumbing or heat. It is a step up from cabin camping."
