Glamping and camping near Valley Cottage, New York centers around the Hudson Highlands region, where elevations range from 400 to 1,600 feet. The area features a mix of hardwood forests and wetlands with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Weather conditions can change quickly in this region, requiring campers to prepare for sudden temperature drops, especially near water bodies.
What to do
Hiking trails access: At High Point State Park Campground, trails connect directly to the Appalachian Trail system. "I spent two nights camping with my niece and this campground was perfect. The site was maybe a 50-yard walk-in and we barely heard anyone around us and had a real wilderness feel. We fit in a hike up to the Appalachian Trail from our campsite," notes one visitor to High Point State Park Campground.
Water activities: Many campgrounds offer multiple water recreation options within short distances. At West Point FMWR Lake Frederick Outdoor Recreation Area, "The new docks around the swimming area create a safer swimming experience for even the most inexperienced swimmers, allowing them safe and obvious perimeters," according to a camper who visited regularly.
Family-friendly attractions: Jellystone Park Gardiner provides structured activities throughout camping season. As one visitor reports, "This campground is great for kids. It has an event just about every weekend with kid activity." Their schedule includes themed weekends with organized games and entertainment options that change throughout the season.
What campers like
Peace and seclusion: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers campsites that feel remote despite proximity to urban areas. A visitor explains, "This county park has large, wooded campsites with electric and water. It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities. And yet it's only about a 15 minute drive to a large mall with movies, shopping, and restaurants."
Military-focused facilities: West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area provides dedicated camping for military personnel and veterans. "We've been coming here for at least 13 years. We love that its a place specifically for Vets and active Military. Everyone is amazingly respectful of each other and the caretakers take such care of the grounds," explains one long-time visitor.
Camping infrastructure: At Stokes State Forest, campsites include practical amenities like bear-proof storage. "Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents. Site came with bear proof bin for garbage and fire ring," notes one visitor about Lake Ocquittunk Area within the forest.
What you should know
Reservation policies: Most glamping destinations near Valley Cottage require advance booking, particularly during summer months. At Collective Governors Island, weekend dates fill months in advance.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds in the region have limited operating seasons. Jellystone Park Gardiner operates from "Apr 16 - Nov 1" according to their official season, with limited amenities available during shoulder seasons.
Connectivity challenges: Cell service can be inconsistent throughout the region. At Round Pond Recreation Area, "Just a note to other campers with T-Moblie, we did not have any service on the campsite, however just a hop in the car or a quick walk down the mountain for 5G service near the entrance off the main road."
Bear safety protocols: Multiple campgrounds emphasize proper food storage to prevent wildlife encounters. Stokes State Forest reminds visitors this is "bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided."
Tips for camping with families
Platform tent options: Several campgrounds offer elevated platforms that improve the tent camping experience. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, "They have these 12x12 platforms to put your tent on. This was pretty cool especially since some of the sites are all gravel with surrounding dirt."
Activity scheduling: Family-focused glamping sites often provide structured programs. "Jellystone Park Gardiner has a lot of activities but some were repetitive. It looks like Saturdays have the best activities," notes one family who recommends planning your stay to include weekend dates.
Noise considerations: When seeking family-friendly camping, check quiet hours and enforcement. "Deceptive photography on reservation website" warns one reviewer about High Point State Park, adding that families should research site topography: "The gravel driveway is on a 30-40 degree incline. The tent was too long for the 12'x10' platform, so we had to set it up on the flattest part."
Tips from RVers
Utility hookups: RV sites at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provide convenient hookups though some planning is needed. "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," notes one RVer.
Navigation challenges: Larger RVs require careful planning in this region. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill," reports one RVer about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, though many campgrounds in the area have limited access for larger vehicles.
Seasonal RV options: Several campgrounds offer different RV accommodations depending on the time of year. At Round Pond Recreation Area, "due to our early start in the camping season the weather did not allow us to enjoy fishing or the beach or water hook ups, however all areas looked well maintained."
