The Hudson Valley region surrounding West Harrison, New York sits at elevations between 400-1,000 feet with terrain featuring rolling hills, dense forests and numerous small lakes. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F. Nights can cool significantly even during summer months, especially at higher elevation campsites.
What to do
Hiking access points: Mountain Lakes Park offers direct trail access from campsites. "A dirt road loops through the property with trails off and through it. No facilities that I can think of, but there are a few lean-to's scattered off the looping road," shares Ben H.
Wildlife viewing: The region hosts deer, foxes, and numerous bird species. "This is a very nice forest! The campground is clean, paved nicely and well run. It is so quiet here. There are some nice trails around the campground as well," notes Greg S. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Family water activities: Several campgrounds offer swimming options. "Nice pool that is shallow so you can relax and let the little ones go in the water park section alone or they have a 3 ft pool also. My older kids preferred a deeper pool but they still had a great time," explains a visitor to Jellystone Park Gardiner.
What campers like
Peace and quiet: Many campgrounds maintain natural settings with respectful visitors. "Very clean and quiet. 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," reports a camper at Pleasant Acres Farm.
Water features: Lakes and ponds are common throughout the region. "The North Shore and South Shore are pretty different. This site gives you the North Shore experience with high bluffs, sandy calm beaches along the Long Island Sound, and views of CT across the water," explains a visitor to Wildwood State Park.
Military-specific options: Two nearby campgrounds cater exclusively to military personnel. "This is a military-only campground but, that doesn't take away from how incredible it is and that is properly advertised. Being military-only keeps standards high, the campground clean and well maintained," reports Heather M. about Lake Frederick.
What you should know
Site variations: Campsite quality and layout can differ significantly. "It's a fun campground, has a great beach & great bathroom facilities. It doesn't have that much of the camping feel, though, as there's not many trees in the campsite area and the sites are so close together," cautions a camper at Wildwood State Park.
Military restrictions: Some campgrounds limit access. "Unfortunately for me, Round Pond is camping reserved for active and retired military personnel only. We drove through and the whole space is rather large. There are several signs everywhere making it clear that it is only for military," explains Ethan K.
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "The bathrooms needed updating and people at the tent area made a comment that it took a while to get a turn at the showers. The campground had a lot of activities but some were repetitive," notes a visitor at Jellystone Park.
Tips for camping with families
Tent platform options: Several sites offer raised platforms for cleaner camping. "There are these 12x12 platforms to put your tent on. This was pretty cool especially since some of the sites are all gravel with surrounding dirt. The sites are very large and I suggest site 7," recommends Christina L. about Mahlon Dickerson.
Weather preparation: The region experiences sudden temperature changes and occasional storms. "When we were there it was right after a rain storm and everything was a bit muddy and slippery. We will definitely be planning a trip back to Mountain Lakes when the weather gets nicer though!" advises a visitor to Mountain Lakes Park.
Access to attractions: Many sites offer proximity to regional highlights. "Love the proximity to NYC - I always look for areas that are not too far, but not too close to NY. Beautiful but small-ish tent sites. Lots of great hiking in the area in addition to beautiful Cold Spring, NY for the small-town charm," explains a camper at West Point FMWR.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric options vary across campgrounds. "Upon arrival we had a bit of a mix up. Someone was planted in our assigned spot. After a phone call, all was ok. The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," shares a visitor to Pleasant Acres Farm.
Big rig considerations: Not all sites accommodate larger vehicles. "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities," notes a camper at Wildwood State Park.
Waste disposal access: Trash management differs between locations. "Some things you should be aware of before booking: Trash is located off site in a pullout on the road you drive in on. There are 2 showers for women and 2 for men," advises an RVer at Pleasant Acres Farm.
