Camping at Harriman State Park

Overview of Harriman State Park

Harriman State Park, located in Rockland and Orange counties in New York, is the second-largest park in the state parks system. With over 47,527 acres of forests, lakes, and mountains, the park offers a perfect retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. It provides a variety of recreational activities including hiking, swimming, fishing, and camping.

Camping at Harriman State Park

Types of Camping:

• Backcountry Camping: Harriman offers multiple backcountry sites that are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers must adhere to Leave No Trace principles and camp only at designated shelter areas or in a spot that is at least 150 feet away from water, road, or a trail.
• Shelters and Lean-Tos: The park features numerous shelters throughout its trail system. These are also available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Group Camping: There are also designated areas for group camping, which usually require reservations and permits.

Reservations and Permits:

• Some campsites and all group camps require reservations and/or permits. Check the official New York State Parks website or contact the park directly for specific information on how to obtain these.
• A fee is often associated with group campsite reservations.

Campsite Regulations:

• Firewood: Bringing your own firewood is discouraged due to the risk of spreading invasive species. Collecting firewood from the park is prohibited; however, firewood may be available for purchase at or near the park.
• Bears: Harriman State Park is in bear country, therefore proper food storage and disposal are imperative to reduce bear-human interactions.
• Pets: When bringing pets, they must be supervised and kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet. There may be specific areas where pets are not allowed.

Hiking and Trails

Harriman State Park boasts over 200 miles of hiking trails. This includes a section of the Appalachian Trail. The trails range from easy family-friendly walks to more challenging hikes.

• Trail Maps: Before heading out, obtain an up-to-date trail map. The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference is a good resource for maps.
• Trail Markers: Trails are marked with different colors. Pay attention to trail markers to stay on the correct path.

Facilities and Nearby Attractions

Facilities:

• Harriman State Park has several day-use areas with picnic tables and restrooms.
• Swimming is available at designated beaches during the open season.
• Boating and fishing are allowed with appropriate permits.

Nearby Attractions:

• Bear Mountain State Park: Adjacent to Harriman, this park has additional recreational opportunities including the Bear Mountain Inn, a zoo, and the Perkins Memorial Tower.
• Hudson River: Offers additional scenic and recreational opportunities.

Safety and Wildlife

• Always be prepared for changing weather conditions and have adequate clothing and supplies.
• Be aware of local wildlife and understand how to minimize risks, including storing food safely and what to do in the event of an encounter.

Access and Contact Information

To get there, the park is accessible by car, the Short Line bus from New York City, or via the Metro-North Railroad to Tuxedo or Sloatsburg stations. For real-time information, the contact number for Harriman State Park is (845) 947-2444.

Remember that details about camping regulations, facilities, reservations, and other important information may vary and should be verified through the latest resources provided by the New York State Parks system prior to planning your trip.