Malouf's Mountain Campground

For us New Yorkers, the desire to truly escape the urban concrete jungle and embrace the tranquility of nature often comes with a logistical challenge: how to get there without a car and how to manage all the gear. "Malouf's Mountain Campground" in Beacon, NY, addresses these very concerns, offering an ingenious and highly convenient "hike-in, hike-out" camping experience that has quickly become a favorite among locals seeking an authentic outdoor adventure. Nestled high on Fishkill Ridge, this campground provides breathtaking views and a genuine sense of seclusion, all while being remarkably accessible from New York City.

Malouf's Mountain isn't your typical drive-up campground; it's a unique camping resort designed for those who appreciate the journey as much as the destination. The core of its appeal lies in its seamless integration of transportation and gear management, allowing even car-free city dwellers to enjoy a deep wilderness experience. Visitors consistently rave about the "incredible experience" and the exceptional hospitality of "the entire team," from pick-up to drop-off. Whether you're a seasoned hiker looking for a challenging trek or someone seeking a comfortable, fully-equipped campsite ready for your arrival, Malouf's Mountain offers a tailored approach to making camping accessible and enjoyable for every New Yorker.

Malouf's Mountain Campground is uniquely situated on Fishkill Ridge, high above the Hudson River, near the address of Fishkill, Ridge Trail, Beacon, NY 12508, USA. Its exact location is approximately 5+ miles from the Beacon Train Station. This mountainous terrain is key to its "hike-in, hike-out" concept, as there is no car access directly to the campground.

Despite its remote feel, Malouf's Mountain is incredibly accessible for New Yorkers, particularly those relying on public transportation:

• Train Access: The campground is conveniently connected to the Beacon MTA Train Station via the Metro-North Hudson Line. This makes it an ideal car-free getaway from NYC. The train ride itself is scenic and takes approximately 80 minutes from Grand Central Terminal.

• Shuttle Service: A standout feature is the complimentary shuttle service. Upon arrival at the Beacon Train Station, Malouf's Mountain offers a shuttle that transports campers to their chosen trailhead. Even better, they transport your camping gear directly to your campsite while you enjoy the hike in! Shuttles run Monday-Saturday until 4 PM and Sunday until 11 AM.

• Hike-In Access Points: Campers access the site via one of three designated trailheads, each offering varying degrees of difficulty and hiking times:

  • Access Point 1 (Red Overlook Trail): Located 4.1 miles from the Beacon Train Station, this is the easiest entry point, taking about 30 minutes to hike to camp. Ideal for late arrivals or those seeking a quicker trek.

  • Access Point 2 (Pocket Road): 2.8 miles from the train station, this trail takes approximately 2.5 hours and features "nice views" and a "nice stream."

  • Access Point 3 (Old Incline Trail/Mt. Beacon Scenic Hudson Parking lot): 2.3 miles from the train station, this trail offers "a lot of nice views" and can take 3 to 5 hours. It's recommended to have a trail map for this one due to multiple routes.

• Parking: For those arriving by car, overnight parking is available at the Beacon Train Station (paid parking may apply during the week). From there, campers utilize the shuttle service and hike in.

Beyond the campground, Beacon itself is a vibrant Hudson Valley town, offering art galleries, unique shops, and excellent dining options – perfect for a pre- or post-camping exploration. The surrounding Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve provides even more extensive hiking opportunities, including the famous Mt. Beacon Casino and Fire Tower and Breakneck Ridge.

Malouf's Mountain Campground is designed to make the "hike-in" camping experience as comfortable and convenient as possible, even for those without extensive gear.

• Gear Transport Service: This is a core service and a major highlight. Campers drop off their gear (limited to one duffel/backpack and one sleeping bag per person, plus one cooler up to 48 QT per site) at the Beacon Train Station, and the Malouf's team transports it directly to your campsite. This allows you to enjoy the hike unburdened.

• Campsite Options: The campground offers a variety of sites:

  • Platform Sites: These elevated sites come with a sturdy tarp cover, providing extra shelter. They include a two-burner propane stove, a "chow box" with essential cooking equipment (matches, fire starter, basic utensils), a fire pit with a grill grate, a picnic table, and a garbage can. Campers can bring their own 4-person tent or rent one from the campground.

  • Primitive Sites: These are cleared pads for your tent, equipped with a fire pit (with grate), a picnic table, and a garbage can. Campers supply all their own camping gear for these sites.

• Clean Bathhouse: The campground provides a central bathhouse with sinks and private toilet and shower stalls, featuring hot water. Reviews confirm the bathhouse is "very clean and well-kept," though reaching it may involve a "steep walk up and down" from some sites.

• Potable Water: All water in the campground is drinkable. Spigots are located at the bathhouse and near certain platform and primitive sites for easy access.

• On-Site Store/Vending Area: A campground store offers camping essentials, meals, snacks, firewood, maps, bug spray, and more for purchase.

• Meal Options: Beyond just providing cooking equipment, Malouf's offers options to purchase ready-to-cook food that can be delivered directly to your site, making meal prep even easier.

• Firewood: Firewood is available for purchase on-site, ensuring campers can enjoy campfires (within designated rings).

• Free Wi-Fi: Available at the common picnic area, allowing guests to stay connected if desired.

• Responsive Staff: The "owner and staff are super kind" and "more than hospitable and welcoming," providing excellent customer service from pick-up to drop-off and ready to answer questions.

Malouf's Mountain Campground offers a range of unique features that make it a truly memorable camping destination for New Yorkers:

• Car-Free Accessibility: This is arguably its most significant highlight. The combination of Metro-North train access and the campground's shuttle and gear transport service makes it incredibly easy for New Yorkers, especially those without cars or extensive camping gear, to experience a deep woods camping trip.

• Hike-In / Hike-Out Experience: The requirement to hike to your campsite transforms camping into an adventurous journey. The "three trails have great views and varying degrees of difficulty," allowing campers to choose a hike that matches their fitness level while enjoying the "beautiful with the leaves changing" scenery.

• Breathtaking Views: Perched on Fishkill Ridge, the campground offers "great views" throughout the property. On clear days, you can even catch a "glimpse of NYC" from certain lookout points.

• Elevated Platform Sites: The "elevated sites" are a popular choice, providing extra shelter with tarp covers, making camping more comfortable and convenient, especially for those new to camping or seeking more amenities.

• Exceptional Hospitality: Visitors consistently praise the "super kind owner and staff" who are "more than hospitable and welcoming." This high level of customer service creates a positive and reassuring environment for campers.

• Secluded and Peaceful Ambiance: Despite its accessibility, the hike-in nature of the campground contributes to a "peaceful, clean" and "quietly nestled in the woods" atmosphere, allowing for a true escape from city noise.

• On-Site Convenience: The availability of rental tents and sleeping bags, along with the option to have meals delivered and firewood available for purchase, means campers can enjoy a "carefree camping" experience without needing to bring everything themselves.

• Proximity to Beacon: The vibrant town of Beacon, with its art scene, breweries, and eateries, is just a short trip from the train station, offering an excellent urban complement to the wilderness experience.

Malouf's Mountain Campground offers structured pricing for its unique "hike-in, hike-out" experience, with rates varying by campsite type and additional services. While specific "promotions" in the traditional sense might not always be advertised, understanding their pricing structure helps in planning your trip.

• Per Night Rates: Rates are generally based on 1-2 adults and up to 2 children (12 or under).

  • Primitive Site: If you supply all your own camping gear, rates start around $75.00 per night.

  • Platform Site with Chow Box (no tent): Approximately $110.00 per night.

  • Platform Site with Tent and Chow Box: Approximately $125.00 per night (includes tent rental).

• Holiday Weekend Rates: During peak holiday weekends (Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Columbus Day), there's typically a two-night minimum stay, and rates are slightly higher (e.g., Primitive Site $90.00/night, Platform with Tent $140.00/night).

• Add-ons:

  • Tent Rental: If you opt for a platform site and need a tent, it's approximately $15.00 per night.

  • Additional Guests: An additional adult (max 3 per site) is around $20.00 per night. An additional child (12 or under) is around $10.00 per night.

  • Luggage Transport: The crucial gear transport service is an additional cost, approximately $16.00 per person round trip.

  • Firewood: A box of firewood (18-20 pieces) costs about $15.00.

• Cancellation Policy: Cancellations are accepted no less than 5 days prior to check-in, with a $20.00 cancellation fee per site. No refunds are issued for cancellations less than 5 days prior or for inclement weather/early departure.

It's always recommended to visit the "Reserve Now" section of their official website for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing and to make your reservation.

To learn more about Malouf's Mountain Campground, make a reservation, or inquire about specific details for your trip, you can use the following contact channels:

Address: Fishkill, Ridge Trail, Beacon, NY 12508, USA (Note: Physical access is hike-in only, with parking and shuttle pick-up at Beacon Train Station).

Phone: (845) 831-6767

Mobile Phone: +1 845-831-6767

Email: While not explicitly listed in the provided data, their website typically has a contact form or email address for inquiries.

Website: maloufsmountain.com (Highly recommended for booking and detailed "Getting Here" information).

For us New Yorkers, Malouf's Mountain Campground is an absolutely perfect fit for a local outdoor escape. We constantly seek ways to disconnect from the concrete jungle and truly immerse ourselves in nature, but the logistics of car ownership and hauling gear often present a significant barrier. Malouf's Mountain brilliantly solves these problems, making a genuine wilderness experience incredibly accessible.

The standout feature for locals is undoubtedly the "car-free camping" option with their shuttle and gear transport service from the Metro-North Beacon Train Station. This eliminates the need for a car, making it a stress-free journey from any borough. Being able to hike into your campsite, unburdened by heavy packs, means the adventure begins the moment you step off the train. The "three trails have great views and varying degrees of difficulty," allowing us to choose an experience that suits our mood and fitness level, whether we're seasoned hikers or just looking for a leisurely stroll through the changing leaves.

Once at camp, the "lovely mountain" setting provides that coveted sense of seclusion and peace that's so hard to find near the city. The "elevated sites" offer a comfortable step up from traditional tent camping, complete with cooking gear, making it a fantastic option even for those new to camping or who prefer a bit more convenience. The consistent praise for the "super kind owner and staff" assures us of a welcoming and helpful environment, which is invaluable for any getaway. For New Yorkers, Malouf's Mountain Campground isn't just a place to sleep outdoors; it's a meticulously designed outdoor experience that caters directly to our unique needs, offering a truly immersive, convenient, and unforgettable escape into the heart of the Hudson Valley. It's why so many of us "can't wait to return this season" and continue "recommending this site."

Malouf's Mountain Campground

Fishkill, Ridge Trail, Beacon, NY 12508, USA