Cedar Pond Campground

For New York locals seeking a unique and memorable outdoor experience, especially for groups, look no further than Cedar Pond Campground. Located in the picturesque setting of Southfields, NY 10975, this destination offers a specialized camping environment designed to accommodate scout troops, church groups, large families, and other organized gatherings. Unlike many traditional campgrounds that cater to individual families, Cedar Pond provides dedicated space and amenities that foster a sense of community and shared adventure, making it an ideal choice for group outings right in our own backyard.

Cedar Pond Campground isn't just about pitching a tent; it's about creating lasting memories in a natural setting. It offers a chance to disconnect from urban life and reconnect with nature, all while enjoying the camaraderie of your group. With its focus on organized camping, the campground ensures a structured yet enjoyable experience, keeping safety and convenience at the forefront. For New Yorkers eager to introduce their groups to the joys of the outdoors, Cedar Pond Campground presents a compelling and well-regarded option.

Cedar Pond Campground is nestled in Southfields, NY 10975, a prime location that balances wilderness appeal with convenient access for residents of the greater New York metropolitan area. Situated near the expansive Harriman State Park, the campground benefits from being part of a region renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.

The campground’s address at Cedar Pond, Southfields, NY, is easily navigable by car. For those driving from New York City and surrounding boroughs, the journey typically takes approximately an hour to an hour and a half, depending on traffic conditions. Access roads are generally well-maintained, leading directly to the campground entrance. Visitors are reminded to register their vehicle upon arrival, as mentioned in customer reviews, ensuring that staff are aware of new arrivals and enhancing overall security within the group-oriented facility.

While direct public transportation to Cedar Pond Campground itself may be limited, the broader Harriman State Park area is accessible via Metro-North Railroad to stations like Tuxedo or Harriman. From these points, groups would likely need to arrange for local taxi services or private shuttles to cover the remaining distance to the campground. This combination of straightforward driving access and potential, albeit indirect, public transport options makes Cedar Pond Campground a viable and attractive destination for New York-based groups looking for an outdoor escape without venturing too far from home.

Cedar Pond Campground is specifically designed to meet the needs of group campers, offering a range of services and amenities that ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

• Group Camping Focus: The campground is primarily for group camping only, catering specifically to organizations such as scout troops, church groups, and other large gatherings. This specialization ensures facilities and policies are tailored to group needs.

• Spacious Campsites: Reviewers mention "Plenty of room for our scout troop," indicating that sites are generously sized to accommodate multiple tents and group activities.

• Essential Amenities: While specific details can vary by site type (tent vs. RV), typical amenities available at campgrounds within the New York State Parks system often include picnic tables, fire rings, and access to bathhouses with showers and restrooms. Cedar Pond Campground does offer bathhouses with showers near the beach and in the tent camping area, and laundry facilities.

• Bear-Aware Food Storage: Given its natural setting, the campground emphasizes bear safety. Visitors are required to keep food in vehicles after dinner to avoid attracting wildlife like bears and raccoons, promoting responsible outdoor practices.

• Vehicle Registration: A key service for maintaining a secure group environment is the mandatory vehicle registration at the circle upon entry, ensuring that all new people entering the place are accounted for by the staff.

• Recreational Water Access: Cedar Pond itself offers opportunities for water-based activities, likely including swimming (at designated beaches) and possibly boating, enhancing the camping experience. Some areas within Harriman State Park have boat launches and rentals.

• On-Site Management: The presence of staff who are "on a lookout for new people entering the place" suggests active management focused on safety and order within the group camping environment.

Cedar Pond Campground, with its specialized group focus, offers several features and highlights that make it a standout destination for organized outdoor adventures in the New York region.

• Dedicated Group Environment: Unlike mixed campgrounds, Cedar Pond's exclusive focus on group camping (for scout troops, church groups, etc.) creates a unique, communal atmosphere where organizations can thrive without disturbing individual campers. This environment is perfect for team-building, educational outings, and large family reunions.

• Natural Pond Setting: The campground is located at Cedar Pond, offering picturesque water views and access to the pond itself. This provides opportunities for activities such as fishing (with appropriate licenses), kayaking, canoeing, or simply enjoying the tranquil lakeside scenery.

• Proximity to Harriman State Park: Being in Southfields, the campground is either within or immediately adjacent to Harriman State Park, the second-largest state park in New York. This offers groups unparalleled access to an extensive network of hiking trails, varied terrain, and diverse natural landscapes for day hikes and exploration.

• Wildlife Awareness: The campground's location in a natural setting means wildlife, including bears and raccoons, are present. The emphasis on proper food storage (in vehicles) highlights the opportunity for campers to learn about and practice responsible coexistence with nature, adding an educational element to the outdoor experience.

• Focus on Safety and Security: The requirement for vehicle registration and the vigilance of staff regarding new entrants contribute to a secure environment, which is particularly important for groups with children. This allows group leaders to focus on activities with peace of mind.

• Adaptability for Various Group Activities: The spaciousness and natural surroundings make Cedar Pond suitable for a wide range of group activities, from educational nature walks and campfire storytelling to team-building exercises and outdoor skill development. The blend of open space and natural features supports diverse programming.

As a campground specializing in group reservations, Cedar Pond Campground's "promotions" often come in the form of its group-friendly pricing structure and tailored accommodations rather than typical individual discounts.

• Group Rates: While specific rates are best confirmed by contacting the campground directly, a facility dedicated to group camping often provides more economical pricing per person for large parties compared to individual campsites. This makes it a cost-effective option for scout troops, church groups, or large family gatherings.

• Tailored Booking Support: The emphasis on group bookings suggests a more personalized reservation process. The review noting "Call the number if you cannot navigate the confusing website" indicates that direct communication for group inquiries is encouraged and supported, which can be a valuable service for coordinating complex group trips.

• Seasonal Availability and Booking Windows: Campgrounds often have specific booking windows for the upcoming season, particularly for popular group sites. Early planning and inquiry can secure preferred dates for your group, especially during peak camping seasons.

• Potential Off-Season Benefits: While specific to Cedar Pond, many group campgrounds might offer more flexible booking or potentially lower rates during shoulder seasons (spring or fall) when demand is lower, allowing groups to experience the beauty of Harriman State Park without peak crowds. It's always worth inquiring about these possibilities directly.

• Exclusive Group Environment: While not a monetary promotion, the "promotion" of a dedicated group-only camping experience is a significant draw. This exclusivity means groups won't contend with individual campers, allowing for a more cohesive and uninterrupted group dynamic, which is a valuable "offer" in itself for organizations.

For all inquiries and reservations at Cedar Pond Campground, direct contact is highly recommended due to its specialized group camping nature.

Address: Cedar Pond, Southfields, NY 10975, USA

Phone: (845) 947-2444

Mobile Phone: +1 845-947-2444

As noted in a customer review, "Call the number if you cannot navigate the confusing website." This suggests that direct phone communication is often the most effective way to secure bookings, inquire about specific group requirements, availability, and any particular rules or amenities pertinent to your visit. Given the group-focused nature of the campground and the importance of coordination for large parties, speaking directly with campground management can ensure all your needs are met and questions answered.

Cedar Pond Campground, nestled in Southfields, NY, emerges as an exceptionally suitable destination for New York locals, particularly those organizing group outings. Its primary appeal lies in its dedicated focus on group camping, making it an ideal choice for scout troops, church groups, extended families, or any organized collective seeking an impactful outdoor experience. This specialization ensures that the facilities, atmosphere, and policies are perfectly aligned with the needs of larger parties, fostering community and minimizing potential conflicts that might arise in mixed campgrounds. As one satisfied customer shared, "Great camping spot. Plenty of room for our scout troop," highlighting its capacity and suitability for organized youth activities.

Moreover, its location near the vast Harriman State Park provides easy access to a wealth of outdoor adventures, from diverse hiking trails to the serene waters of Cedar Pond itself, which offers opportunities for water-based recreation. For New Yorkers looking to introduce their groups to the beauty of the outdoors without venturing too far from home, this proximity is invaluable. The campground's emphasis on safety, including mandatory vehicle registration and clear guidelines for food storage to deter wildlife, offers peace of mind for group leaders, ensuring a secure environment for all participants.

Cedar Pond Campground offers a unique blend of accessibility, specialized group services, and a genuine natural setting. It’s a place where children can learn about nature, groups can strengthen their bonds through shared experiences, and everyone can enjoy a refreshing escape from the urban environment. For any local group in the New York area seeking a well-equipped, secure, and engaging camping destination, Cedar Pond Campground provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable outdoor memories.

Cedar Pond Campground

Cedar Pond, Southfields, NY 10975, USA