The Hudson Valley region surrounding West Haverstraw sits at the foothills of the Ramapo Mountains, with elevations ranging from 500-1,000 feet throughout most camping areas. The region typically experiences moderate humidity with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F from June through August. Most campgrounds near West Haverstraw remain operational from April through October, with many limiting water access during early spring when nighttime temperatures can still drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking to lookout points: West Point FMWR Round Pond Recreation Area offers multiple trails connecting directly to the campground. "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," notes Becky G. The military-only facility maintains well-marked paths suitable for various skill levels.
Water activities at Kittatinny: Kittatinny Campground offers river-based recreation along the Delaware. "My college friends go here each year to meet up and we have so much fun. The group sites are great and perfect for our 30-50 people. Definitely go for the rafting/tubing package, it was the best part of the trip!" recommends Maggie K. River access includes kayaking, rafting and tubing with rental packages available from April through September.
Forest exploration: Trails at Stokes State Forest connect to the Appalachian Trail and local waterways. "There are 21 marked trails that cover over 63 miles within the boundaries of Stokes State Forest. Twelve miles are part of the Appalachian Trail," explains one reviewer. The forest also features Tillman Ravine trail that can be hiked as a loop visiting both the ravine and a nearby old cemetery.
What campers like
Secluded glamping options: Moon Valley Campground offers elevated glamping near West Haverstraw, New York with unique accommodations. "This was a great campsite nestled in the foothills of Northern NJ on the NY border. Small, clean with great views and great location for hiking, cruising etc. Bring your tent or use the existing glamping tents. Headed back for a fall weekend in the 'dome' which has incredible views," reports Bob F.
Clean facilities: At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, campers appreciate the well-maintained grounds and facilities. "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that," mentions one reviewer. Another camper adds, "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks. The campsites are paved and mostly level."
Trading post convenience: Camp Glen Gray offers on-site supplies that campers find valuable during their stays. "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions," notes Christopher M. The trading post stocks camping necessities and treats for impromptu needs.
What you should know
Military-only access: Several premium campgrounds in the area restrict access to military personnel. "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. The same is true for Lake Frederick another nearby campsite," explains Ethan K.
Limited cell service: Technology connections can be spotty throughout the 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. There is also free wifi at the commissary/exchange, which is about 2 miles away," reports Jacey H.
Seasonal availability: Most sites operate April through October with limited winter options. "The park office is not nearby, about 2(?) miles away. They sell wood, and there are a few road stands near the campground, but that wood is wet. You'll need to find some birch to get your fire going," notes a winter cabin camper at Stokes State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Jellystone Park Gardiner specializes in family entertainment. "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 there they have lasertag which they enjoy. And a bounce pillow," shares Amanda S.
Avoid holiday weekends: Campgrounds near West Haverstraw become extremely crowded during peak periods. "This campground has a lot of activities and has kids of all ages galore. I was worried my 12 year old would be too old for it but he enjoyed making friends there," notes Stephanie H., though she cautions about noise levels in prime locations: "We got a red carpet site by the Gaga pit and near the water park (Cindy bear lane) and it was a convenient yet noisy site. Kids were at the playground 8 am or before and the noise woke us up."
Pack extra supplies: Many primitive sites lack immediate access to stores. When visiting the more remote locations like Mountain Lakes Park, bring all essential supplies. One camper notes: "When we were there it was right after a rain storm and everything was a bit muddy and slippery," highlighting the need for proper footwear and weather-appropriate gear, especially when camping with children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At High Point State Park, RVers should research specific sites before booking. "So, we got in with no reservation, which was great. It's in the same park as the high point, also great. The sites are varied, some have tent platforms, it's just off the AT, but we have a trailer and the 'trailer' sites aren't level. Showers are at the day use area, from 10-5:30, no trailer dump," reports Grant M.
Water hookup strategies: Several campgrounds offer water hookups but with limitations. "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," shares a reviewer at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, noting the campground's solution to water access challenges.
Limited big-rig access: Most campgrounds in this region cannot accommodate larger RVs over 35 feet. While some sites at Round Pond Recreation Area are marked as big-rig friendly, the mountainous terrain creates access challenges on surrounding roads. Always call ahead to confirm specific site dimensions and access routes before attempting to bring larger rigs.
