RV parks near Valhalla, New York position campers between the Hudson River valley and the foothills of the Ramapo Mountains, at elevations ranging from near sea level to 1,300 feet. This region experiences all four seasons distinctly, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and fall bringing colorful foliage displays in September and October. Winter camping remains an option at several year-round facilities, though water hookups may be winterized.
What to do
Hiking Appalachian Trail segments: At Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground, located about 30 miles from Valhalla, several trail sections connect to longer networks. "There are plenty of trails, water (creeks, pond, lake) views and even if the place is packed there is PLENTY of room," notes one camper at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, which offers similar trail access.
Swimming in natural settings: Beaver Pond Campground at Harriman State Park features lifeguard-monitored swimming during summer months. "The grounds are just steps away from Welch Lake, offering a lifeguard monitored sandy beach which is open during the summer season for swimming, fishing, and small boat craft further out," explains a reviewer.
Urban exploration: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides unique city access opportunities. "This is a great spot with views of Manhattan, Statue of Liberty, etc. Expect to pay pretty good to be near, but from here you can pretty much easily get anywhere in NYC," writes one visitor. Transit options include ferries and trains: "There is a ferry 100-yards away that takes you to Wall Street M-F."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the area offer secluded camping experiences. At Clarence Fahnestock State Park, "Almost all of the sites offered privacy.... Even when the campground was full. I do feel the campground bathhouse really needed more attention," reports one camper who appreciated the seclusion despite bathroom concerns.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Bear sightings are common enough that warnings are posted at several parks. "The site itself was solid- it is surrounded by forest, and is at the top of a small ridge above Pelton Pond, so there was a pretty consistent breeze (few bugs!) and the soft sounds of bullfrogs at night," writes a visitor to Fahnestock State Park.
Off-season advantages: Croton Point Park offers quieter camping experiences after peak season. "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful. Great hikes," notes one off-season visitor, though they added: "Bathrooms and dishwashing... UGH. So old and dirty!!!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: At busy parks like Beaver Pond Campground, planning ahead is essential. "Weekends - this park is FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!" advises an experienced camper.
Site quality variations: Campsite conditions vary significantly within the same campground. A camper at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation reports: "Our site is easily the nicest- all the way in the back with only one neighbor. It is so quiet here. No amenities or extras here, just really pleasant camping in the woods."
Water access challenges: Despite advertised hookups, some facilities experience issues. At Woodland Trails Campground, one visitor discovered: "The site was supposed to have electric and water hookup. Electric worked but the water did not. Most of the sites were empty, so I investigated and found that none of the water hookups in the 5 sites around us worked."
Tips for camping with families
Free or low-cost options: Budget-conscious families can find affordable camping within driving distance of Valhalla. "This is an off-grid camping experience. You can use your generator at certain hours. They have a beach. Their staff is friendly. I love going here. Camping for just $15," shares a visitor to Beaver Pond Campground.
Child-friendly activities: Many parks offer dedicated facilities for younger campers. Croton Point Park has "a model airplane air field and a decent playground for young kids," according to one reviewer, who warns: "Only down side is there is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night."
Safety considerations: Wildlife encounters require proper preparation. "The sites are nicely wooded, very well spaced, fairly level with 50A service and water hookup," notes a visitor to Mahlon Dickerson, who adds: "There are a lot of bear warnings here so that gave us a bit of pause with our three little boys."
Tips from RVers
Site navigation challenges: Large RVs face specific access limitations at several campgrounds. "At Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort, "When you leave you have to drive the wrong way in the campground because of the low hanging trees the correct direction," cautions one RVer. "One downfall is you have to drive to the trash bin it is way too far to walk."
Overnight transit options: For RVers wanting to visit NYC, Liberty Harbor RV Park offers convenient alternatives to driving. "Two blocks away from NJ Path train into Manhattan or take the ferry to Wall Street!" shares one visitor, though they note: "It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else."
Winter camping preparedness: For cold-weather RVing near Valhalla, Black Bear RV Park stays open year-round but with limited services. "We are returning to the south after spending a couple months of fall in New England... This was our first stop and primarily chosen because it was one of the few places along our route that was open for RVs in the off season," explains a winter visitor who found "some sites might not have working water."
