Hemlock North

For New York locals eager to reconnect with nature and enjoy a genuine outdoor experience without venturing too far from the city's gravitational pull, Hemlock North in North Salem offers a compelling destination. Nestled within the expansive Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park, this "campground" provides a refreshing escape into Westchester County's rugged landscapes, native hardwood forests, and serene lakes. It's a place where the sounds of the city fade, replaced by the rustling of leaves and the calls of the wild, making it an ideal retreat for New Yorkers seeking a dose of fresh air and outdoor adventure.

Hemlock North is not your typical RV park with full hookups and extensive amenities. Instead, it embraces a more rustic and immersive camping philosophy, aligning with the ethos of Mountain Lakes Park itself. This park, described as Westchester's northernmost county park, is characterized by its "rugged landscape and native hardwood forest with miles of trails," offering a truly authentic backcountry feel. For New Yorkers who appreciate the raw beauty of the outdoors and are prepared for a more traditional camping style, Hemlock North delivers a uniquely enriching experience.

The focus here is on the natural environment and outdoor activities. With "five lakes and a spectacular overlook," the park invites visitors to explore its vast trails, enjoy water activities on Hemlock Lake, and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the forest. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike, a peaceful paddle, or a quiet night under the stars, Hemlock North provides the backdrop for memorable adventures. While specific guest reviews for "Hemlock North" as a separate entity are not widely available outside of its association with the larger Mountain Lakes Park, the park itself receives praise for its trails and natural beauty, suggesting that the camping experience within it would be equally well-regarded by those who appreciate its rugged charm.

It's important for prospective New York campers to understand that "Hemlock North" is often referred to as one of the camping areas within Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park. This distinction emphasizes its integration into a larger natural preserve, ensuring that the camping experience is deeply connected to the park's extensive outdoor offerings. For locals seeking an authentic outdoor adventure that's still conveniently accessible, Hemlock North offers a compelling proposition within the heart of Westchester County.

Hemlock North is strategically located within Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park at 201 Hawley Road, North Salem, NY. This address places it firmly within Westchester County, making it an exceptionally convenient and accessible outdoor escape for residents of New York City and the surrounding metropolitan area. The park itself is Westchester's northernmost county park, providing a feeling of genuine wilderness without requiring an extensive drive. For many New Yorkers, a journey to North Salem can be completed within an hour to an hour and a half, depending on their starting point, making it ideal for weekend trips or even extended stays.

Mountain Lakes Park is known for its "rugged landscape and native hardwood forest with miles of trails," boasting "five lakes and a spectacular overlook." This natural setting is the primary draw, offering a stark contrast to urban life. The park's accessibility via well-maintained roads ensures a straightforward drive, even for vehicles towing gear. Once inside the park, Hemlock North is located specifically on the "second camp ground (Camp Hemlock), just passed Camp Morty," indicating clear internal signage or directions within the park itself.

While Hemlock North provides a secluded natural environment, its location in North Salem means it's not entirely isolated from local conveniences. The town of North Salem, a charming Westchester community, offers basic services, local eateries, and small shops for any last-minute needs or a quick bite. This blend of remote natural beauty with nearby village amenities creates a balanced experience for campers. Furthermore, its position within Westchester County means it's part of a network of parks and natural areas, potentially offering even more exploration opportunities for adventurous New Yorkers.

The ease of access from major New York thoroughfares allows city dwellers and suburbanites alike to quickly transition from their busy lives to a peaceful natural setting. This makes Hemlock North a practical choice for those seeking a genuine camping experience that doesn't involve an all-day drive, proving that true wilderness can be found surprisingly close to home in New York State.

Hemlock North, as part of the camping facilities within Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park, offers a more rustic and back-to-nature camping experience, focusing on essential amenities that support outdoor adventures. It's important for New York campers to understand that this is not a resort-style campground but rather a naturalistic setting designed for genuine outdoor enthusiasts. The services primarily revolve around providing basic shelter and facilitating enjoyment of the park's natural resources.

• Open-Face Lean-To Camping: The primary camping accommodation available at Hemlock North (and within Mountain Lakes Park) are open-face lean-tos. These shelters are designed for a more traditional, rugged camping experience.
  • Sleeping Capacity: Each lean-to has a limited sleeping capacity, typically for up to eight people per shelter. Two larger sites can accommodate up to 16 people, suitable for bigger groups.
  • Site Amenities: Each shelter site is equipped with an outside grill for cooking, a designated fire ring for campfires (perfect for evenings under the stars), and a picnic table for dining and gathering.
• Yurt Rentals: For those seeking a slightly more structured camping experience, individual yurts or the entire yurt village can be rented.
  • Accommodation: Yurts can accommodate up to 10 people. They provide sleeping quarters only, implying a rustic experience similar to the lean-tos, without full amenities inside the yurt.
  • Director's Cabin: A director's cabin is also available for rent, which can accommodate four people and offers "full amenities, excluding linens, towels, toiletries and food." This suggests a more comfortable stay, potentially with a bathroom or basic kitchen facilities, but campers still need to bring their essentials.
  • Seasonal Availability: Yurts and the director's cabin are available for daily or weekly rentals from Memorial Day through Columbus Day, except when Camp Morty (a sleepaway camp for disadvantaged children) is in session, so pre-checking availability is crucial.
• Canoe Rentals: Hemlock Lake offers canoe rentals, providing an excellent opportunity to explore the lake's calm waters. This service is typically available on Saturdays and Sundays during the season, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., for a fee ($10 per hour).
• Restrooms: While not explicitly detailed, public restrooms are generally available within the park to support the camping and day-use facilities. These would be basic, rustic facilities in keeping with the park's character.
• Drinking Water: Access to potable water sources would be available within the park, though campers should be prepared to carry water to their specific sites if necessary.
• Hiking Trails: The park boasts "miles of trails" (including seven well-blazed trails and connecting paths), offering extensive opportunities for hiking, nature exploration, and accessing different areas of the park, including the lakes and scenic overlooks.
• Fishing: Hemlock Lake and the park's other lakes offer opportunities for fishing, a popular recreational activity for campers.
• Picnicking: Various picnic areas are available throughout the park for day users and campers alike.

It's important to note that this campground does not typically offer services like full RV hookups, extensive bathhouses with hot showers, or on-site stores often found at private RV parks. The focus is on embracing the natural environment, with services designed to facilitate that experience. Campers should be prepared for a more self-sufficient style of camping.

Hemlock North, positioned within the stunning Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park, boasts several unique features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for New York locals seeking an authentic and immersive outdoor experience. These attributes underscore its appeal as a natural haven close to home:

• Pristine Natural Setting: The overarching highlight is the park itself. Characterized by a "rugged landscape and native hardwood forest," the park offers a true wilderness feel. It encompasses "five lakes and a spectacular overlook," providing breathtaking views and a sense of remoteness despite its proximity to developed areas. This is a significant draw for New Yorkers looking to genuinely disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.
• Extensive Trail System: With "miles of trails" (seven well-blazed trails plus connectors), the park offers diverse hiking opportunities for all skill levels. These trails wind through forests, past rock outcrops, and over meandering streams, leading to scenic viewpoints and lake shores. For hikers and nature enthusiasts, the vast trail network is a major attraction, allowing for days of exploration.
• Water Activities on Hemlock Lake: The presence of Hemlock Lake and other lakes within the park is a key feature. Campers can enjoy activities like fishing and, notably, canoeing, with canoe rentals available on weekends. This provides a peaceful way to explore the waterways and enjoy the tranquility of the lake.
• Rustic Lean-To Camping: For those who prefer a more traditional and hardy camping experience, the open-face lean-tos are a distinct highlight. Each equipped with a grill, fire ring, and picnic table, they offer a basic but authentic shelter, allowing campers to truly connect with the outdoor elements and enjoy campfires under the stars.
• Yurt Village & Director's Cabin: The availability of yurts and a director's cabin provides alternative, slightly more comfortable, camping options. The yurts offer a unique "glamping" experience, while the director's cabin, with its "full amenities" (excluding linens/food), serves as a more developed base for those who prefer some comforts of home while still being immersed in the park.
• Proximity to NYC Metro Area: Despite its wild feel, the park's location in North Salem, Westchester County, means it's highly accessible for New York City and suburban residents. This allows for spontaneous weekend trips or longer, nature-filled vacations without the need for extensive travel.
• Wildlife Viewing & Birdwatching: The diverse forest and lake ecosystems support a variety of wildlife, offering opportunities for nature observation and birdwatching, enhancing the natural immersion for visitors.
• Affordable Outdoor Experience: As a county park facility, the camping options are often more affordable than private campgrounds, making a natural escape more accessible to a wider range of New York families.
• Team Building & Group Facilities: The park also features a ropes challenge course and a newly renovated Mess Hall (available for group rentals), indicating its capacity to host organized groups, which could be a highlight for school trips, scout groups, or corporate retreats.

These highlights collectively emphasize Hemlock North's role as a gateway to authentic outdoor adventure and a peaceful retreat for New Yorkers seeking natural beauty and rustic camping.

As a public campground managed by Westchester County Parks, Hemlock North (within Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park) operates differently from private commercial campgrounds when it comes to "promotions" or "special offers." Instead of traditional discounts or seasonal sales, the value propositions are inherent in its public park status and pricing structure. For New York locals, the "offers" are more about affordable access to extensive natural resources and amenities.

• Affordable Camping Rates: The primary "promotion" is the inherently low cost of camping compared to many private campgrounds. For lean-to camping, the cost is typically quite modest, making it an accessible option for many New Yorkers looking for an economical outdoor getaway. (Specific rates would need to be confirmed directly with Westchester County Parks, but public park camping is generally budget-friendly).
• Value-Added Inclusions: The camping permit typically includes access to a designated lean-to site, which comes equipped with an outside grill, a fire ring, and a picnic table. These amenities are included in the permit fee, providing essential conveniences without additional cost.
• Access to Extensive Park Amenities: Your camping permit grants you full access to the vast resources of Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park. This includes miles of hiking trails, fishing opportunities in five lakes, scenic overlooks, and access to other park facilities, all without additional park entrance fees beyond your camping permit. This comprehensive access to outdoor recreation is a significant value.
• Group Rate Opportunities: While not a general public promotion, organized groups (such as school groups, scout troops, or corporate teams) may be able to rent the entire Yurt Village or the Mess Hall, potentially at structured group rates. This allows for affordable large-scale gatherings in a natural setting.
• Off-Peak Season Camping: Although the park is open year-round for lean-to camping, visiting during shoulder seasons (spring or fall) or winter can provide a quieter experience. While not a direct discount, the reduced crowds enhance the value for those seeking solitude.
• Canoe Rental Fees: While not a free service, the $10 per hour fee for canoe rentals on Hemlock Lake is a very reasonable rate, allowing campers to enjoy water activities without a significant expense for equipment rental.

It's important for New York locals to understand that reservations are required for camping, and permits are issued to adults 21 and older. Camping for more than seven consecutive days is not permitted, which focuses the experience on shorter, more accessible trips. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing for lean-tos, yurts, or the director's cabin, and to inquire about specific booking windows, direct contact with Westchester County Parks is essential.

For inquiries, reservations, and to obtain permits for camping at Hemlock North (within Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park), it is essential to contact the Westchester County Parks Department directly. The park operates under county management, and all bookings and information flow through their official channels. Please use the following details:

• Address: Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park, 201 Hawley Road, North Salem, NY 10560, USA
• Phone for Reservations: (914) 864-7312

It is specifically noted that reservations for camping, boating, or teambuilding should be made by calling the dedicated reservation line on Sundays, Mondays, or Thursdays. This indicates specific hours or days when staff are available to handle camping inquiries and bookings. Camping permits are required and issued at the park office, with the primary permit holder needing to be 21 years or older. Given that camping for more than seven consecutive days is not permitted, and yurts/cabins have specific seasonal availability (Memorial Day to Columbus Day, excluding Camp Morty sessions), it is highly advisable for New York locals to call well in advance to confirm availability, understand all regulations, and secure their desired camping dates.

For New York locals, Hemlock North, nestled within the expansive Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park in North Salem, offers an exceptionally suitable and enriching outdoor escape. It caters perfectly to the New Yorker's desire for a genuine nature experience that feels miles away from the urban bustle, yet remains remarkably accessible.

Firstly, its proximity is a major advantage. Situated in Westchester County, Hemlock North is often less than a two-hour drive from New York City and its surrounding suburbs. This allows for spontaneous weekend getaways or even midweek escapes, eliminating the need for long, arduous journeys often associated with remote wilderness camping. New Yorkers can easily transition from their busy lives to the tranquility of the forest, maximizing their time enjoying nature.

Secondly, Hemlock North delivers an authentic, unpretentious camping experience. Unlike many commercial campgrounds, it emphasizes rustic charm with its lean-to shelters, fire rings, and picnic tables. This aligns with a desire for a "real" camping adventure, where the focus is on the outdoors rather than manufactured amenities. For New Yorkers seeking to truly disconnect, build a campfire, and sleep under the stars in a natural setting, this is the ideal environment.

Furthermore, the wealth of activities within Mountain Lakes Park makes it a versatile destination. Locals can explore "miles of trails" for hiking, enjoy peaceful canoeing or fishing on Hemlock Lake, and soak in the breathtaking views from the park's overlooks. This variety ensures that every visit can offer a new adventure, catering to different interests and energy levels within a family or group. The affordability of county park camping also makes it an accessible option for many, ensuring that the healing power of nature is within reach for all New Yorkers.

In essence, Hemlock North provides New York locals with a vital opportunity to recharge and reconnect with the natural world. It’s a place where the grandeur of the wilderness meets the convenience of a nearby escape, offering an authentic and memorable camping experience right here in our own backyard.

Hemlock North

Hemlock North, North Salem, NY 10560, USA