Beaver Pond Campground

harriman state park 800 kanawauke rd southfields ny 10975

For New Yorkers seeking a refreshing escape from the urban hustle, the allure of the great outdoors is undeniable. Just a short drive north of the concrete jungle lies Beaver Pond Campground, a hidden gem nestled within the vast and beautiful Harriman State Park in Stony Point. This campground offers a convenient and accessible way for locals to reconnect with nature, whether it's for a weekend getaway or a longer wilderness immersion.

Beaver Pond Campground provides a unique opportunity to experience the tranquility of a natural setting while still being within reach of city conveniences. It’s a place where you can swap the sounds of traffic for the rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds, all without traveling too far from home. This campground caters to a variety of campers, from those who prefer the simplicity of a tent site to those with RVs looking for a designated spot.

While every camping experience has its nuances, Beaver Pond Campground consistently offers a chance to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Hudson Valley and participate in numerous outdoor activities. Its close proximity to Lake Welch also adds a refreshing aquatic dimension to your camping adventure. This article will delve into the specifics of Beaver Pond Campground, providing New York residents with a comprehensive overview to help plan their next outdoor excursion.

Beaver Pond Campground is situated at 700 Kanawauke Rd, Stony Point, NY 10980, USA. Its location within Harriman State Park is a significant advantage, placing campers directly into one of New York's largest and most scenic state parks. Harriman State Park spans over 52,000 acres, offering a vast playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the primary benefits of Beaver Pond's location for New York locals is its remarkable accessibility. It is approximately 25 miles north of the George Washington Bridge, making it an incredibly convenient option for residents of New York City and the surrounding metropolitan area. This short travel time means less time on the road and more time enjoying your camping trip. The campground is reachable via well-maintained park roads, ensuring a relatively smooth journey to your site.

Beyond its immediate surroundings, the campground's proximity to Stony Point means that essential supplies, local shops, and even historic sites are within a reasonable driving distance. Nearby recreational areas like Rockland Lake State Park, Bear Mountain State Park, and the scenic Lake Tiorati Beach further expand the possibilities for day trips and exploration. This blend of remote natural beauty and convenient access to local amenities makes Beaver Pond Campground an ideal choice for New Yorkers looking for a quintessential camping experience without straying too far from home.

The camping season typically runs from spring through fall, with specific dates for walk-ins and reservations. In 2025, for example, walk-ins are permitted from April 18th to May 1st, and both reservations and walk-ins are available from May 2nd to October 13th. This seasonal operation ensures the best conditions for outdoor activities.

Beaver Pond Campground provides a range of essential services and facilities to ensure a comfortable and convenient camping experience for its visitors.

• Comfort Stations: Clean and regularly maintained comfort stations are available, featuring flush toilets. This is a significant convenience for campers, providing a more comfortable alternative to primitive facilities.
• Showers: The campground offers shower facilities, allowing campers to refresh and clean up after a day of hiking, swimming, or other outdoor activities.
• Laundry Facilities: For longer stays or just to freshen up clothes, laundry facilities are available on-site, adding to the convenience for campers.
• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is provided for RV and trailer campers, facilitating responsible waste disposal.
• Water Fill-up Station: Potable water is available at designated fill-up stations, ensuring campers have access to fresh drinking water.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood can be purchased from the Main Office during operating hours, making it easy to enjoy campfires without needing to transport wood from outside the park. Campfires are permitted only in the metal fire rings provided at each site.
• First Aid Station: A first aid station is on-site for immediate assistance with minor injuries or emergencies, contributing to a safer camping environment.
• Bear Lockers: Given that the campground is within bear country, bear lockers are provided at campsites. Campers are advised to use these to store food and scented items securely to prevent bear activity.
• Parking: Each campsite typically allows one vehicle, with additional vehicle parking available for a fee.
• Reservations: Reservations can be made online through ReserveAmerica or via their call center. Walk-ins are also permitted for campsites, space permitting.

Beaver Pond Campground truly shines with its key features and highlights, making it a desirable destination for New York locals seeking an outdoor adventure.

• Diverse Campsite Options:
  • Tent Sites: Many sites are designed for tent camping, with some offering raised platforms (12' x 12' or similar) to keep tents off the ground, enhancing comfort and dryness. Each tent site includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a flip-top grill.
  • Trailer/RV Sites: Select sites can accommodate trailers or RVs up to 30 feet in length. However, it is crucial to note that there are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups for RVs at this campground. Campers should be prepared for a rustic RV experience.
• Direct Access to Lake Welch: The campground adjoins the Lake Welch Recreation Area. This proximity offers direct access to a protected swimming beach when lifeguards are on duty, as well as opportunities for boating.
• Extensive Trail System: As part of Harriman State Park, campers have immediate access to over 200 miles of marked hiking trails. These trails cater to various skill levels, offering scenic walks, challenging hikes, and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Every campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a metal fire ring with a flip-top grill, providing essential amenities for outdoor cooking and gatherings.
• Natural Setting: The sites are generally wooded, providing a sense of privacy and immersion in nature. Despite being popular, the natural surroundings offer a refreshing break from urban environments.
• Proximity to Local Attractions: Beyond the park, campers can easily visit nearby attractions such as Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site, Rockland Lake State Park, and Bear Mountain State Park, offering a broader range of activities and historical exploration.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The presence of a swimming beach and general outdoor recreational opportunities makes it suitable for families looking for an active and engaging camping trip. A small playground is also on-site.

As a New York State Park campground, Beaver Pond Campground generally operates on a standardized rate system, and specific "promotions" in the traditional commercial sense are not typically offered. However, there are established pricing structures and considerations for New York residents.

• Standardized Rates: Camping fees at Beaver Pond Campground typically range from $15-$22 per night for New York State residents. A $5 surcharge per night applies to non-residents.
• Access Pass Discounts: While not a direct promotion for Beaver Pond specifically, New York State Parks often offer discounted entry or other benefits for holders of New York State Parks Access Passes (which provide discounted entry for eligible New Yorkers with disabilities, or seniors). It is worth checking if such passes provide any camping rate reductions.
• Walk-in Availability: The option for walk-in registrations, particularly during certain periods (e.g., April 18th - May 1st, 2025), can sometimes provide flexibility for last-minute trips, though availability is not guaranteed.
• Reservation System: While not a discount, the online reservation system through ReserveAmerica allows campers to secure their preferred dates and sites in advance, which is a valuable "offer" for planning popular weekend trips.
• Length of Stay: A camping party and their equipment may occupy a site for a maximum of 14 continuous nights. This allows for extended stays without interruption.
• One-Night Stays: If making a reservation within three days of arrival, it's possible to book a one-night stay for campsites, which offers flexibility for quick getaways.

For the most up-to-date and precise information on rates, potential discounts (if any for specific groups like seniors or veterans through broader state park initiatives), and reservation policies, it is always best to consult the official New York State Parks website or contact the campground directly.

For reservations, inquiries, or more detailed information about Beaver Pond Campground, you can use the following contact details:

Address: 700 Kanawauke Rd, Stony Point, NY 10980, USA

Phone: (845) 947-2792

Mobile Phone: +1 845-947-2792

Reservations can also be made through the ReserveAmerica Call Center at 1-800-456-2267 or via their website for New York State Parks. It is advisable to call during operational hours for direct assistance with specific questions about site availability, amenities, and park rules.

Beaver Pond Campground holds a strong appeal for New York locals for several compelling reasons. Foremost among them is its unparalleled accessibility. Located just a short drive from the bustling metropolitan area, it offers a quick and easy escape into nature, minimizing travel time and maximizing the duration of your outdoor experience. This convenience makes it an ideal destination for weekend warriors, families looking for a brief respite, or anyone seeking to de-stress without embarking on a long journey.

Secondly, the campground's setting within Harriman State Park provides an abundance of recreational opportunities right at your fingertips. From extensive hiking trails catering to all levels, to swimming and boating opportunities on Lake Welch, there's no shortage of activities to keep everyone entertained. This variety ensures that whether you're a serious outdoor adventurer or simply looking for a peaceful place to relax by the water, Beaver Pond has something to offer. The inclusion of amenities like clean restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities further enhances the comfort, making camping accessible even for those who prefer a less rustic experience.

While some visitors note that it can get crowded and noisy during peak times, this is often a trade-off for its desirable location and affordability. For New Yorkers, the value of having such a well-equipped campground so close to home, offering a genuine nature experience, often outweighs these minor inconveniences. The friendly staff and diligent maintenance of facilities, as noted by visitors, contribute to a welcoming atmosphere. For those seeking an affordable, convenient, and activity-rich outdoor escape, Beaver Pond Campground remains a top choice for locals to immerse themselves in the natural beauty that New York State has to offer. It's truly a gateway to the wilderness, just a stone's throw from home.

Beaver Pond Campground

700 Kanawauke Rd, Stony Point, NY 10980, USA