Tom Jones Shelter

For New York locals who crave a genuine backcountry experience and the simple pleasure of sleeping under the stars after a rewarding hike, Tom Jones Shelter in Harriman State Park offers an iconic and highly sought-after destination. Located in the picturesque wilderness near Southfields, NY 10975, this lean-to is more than just a place to rest your head; it’s a gateway to the vast trail network of Harriman, providing a memorable primitive camping experience with breathtaking views.

As one of the roughly five to six designated shelters within Harriman State Park, Tom Jones Shelter embodies the spirit of self-sufficient adventure. It’s a favorite among backpackers and day hikers looking to extend their excursions into overnight trips. The journey to the shelter is often described as challenging but immensely rewarding, leading to a serene spot where nature truly takes center stage. For New Yorkers looking to disconnect from the urban hustle and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the wilderness, Tom Jones Shelter provides an accessible yet authentic taste of backcountry camping.

Tom Jones Shelter is situated within the extensive Harriman State Park, near Southfields, NY 10975. As a primitive lean-to, it is not directly accessible by vehicle, which is a key aspect of its appeal for backpackers seeking a true wilderness experience. Access to the shelter is exclusively by foot via hiking trails.

A common and relatively accessible approach to Tom Jones Shelter is from a roadside pull-out on Route 106 (Kanawauke Road) in Harriman State Park. This parking area is at GPS location 41.23038 N, 74.13996 W. Overnight parking is permitted here without the need for registration, signing in, or leaving a note on your dashboard, making it convenient for overnight trips. From this pull-out, hikers can take the red-blazed Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail (R-D Trail). The shelter is located approximately a half-mile uphill from Route 106, making for a relatively short but somewhat strenuous ascent to reach it.

Another popular route, as described by a satisfied camper, involves taking the bus from New York City's Port Authority to Tuxedo. From Tuxedo, hikers can then embark on a more intense but beautiful hike through various trails, crossing streams and small waterfalls, ultimately leading to the "strenuous" final climb to Tom Jones Shelter. This option caters to New York City residents who prefer public transportation to reach the park.

The fact that it requires a hike to reach is a significant part of the experience, ensuring that those who make the journey are rewarded with a more secluded and pristine environment away from casual visitors. Always consult a detailed trail map, such as those provided by the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, for precise routes and trail conditions before embarking on your hike.

Tom Jones Shelter, like other lean-tos in Harriman State Park, offers basic, primitive camping services designed for self-sufficient backpackers. It is not a traditional campground with modern amenities.

• Three-Sided Shelter (Lean-to): The primary "service" is the rustic, three-sided stone shelter itself, offering protection from the elements. It typically includes a raised wooden platform or bunk bed for sleeping and a fireplace inside. Tom Jones Shelter is notably equipped with two interior fireplaces, providing warmth in cooler weather.

• First-Come, First-Served Camping: Lean-tos in Harriman State Park cannot be reserved. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis. If the shelter is occupied, or if you prefer more privacy, primitive camping is permitted within 100-300 feet of the lean-to, often in flat grassy areas suitable for tents or hammocks. Campers are expected to share the lean-to if others arrive.

• Fire Rings: In addition to the interior fireplaces, there is usually an outdoor fire ring available for campfires, provided conditions allow and local burn bans are not in effect. Hikers should gather dead and downed wood from the surrounding area.

• Access to Water (Seasonal/Remote): While the shelter itself does not have running water, natural water sources like streams or springs may be found nearby, particularly during wetter seasons. However, these are not reliable year-round, and all water must be filtered or treated before consumption. It is highly recommended to pack in sufficient water, especially given the ease of carrying it from the Route 106 parking lot (a half-mile hike).

• Trail Access: The shelter is a key point on various hiking trails, particularly the Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail, allowing hikers to easily continue their journey or explore side trails.

• Leave No Trace Policy: The park enforces strict "pack-it-in, pack-it-out" rules. There are no garbage cans; all trash, including food scraps, must be carried out by campers. Human waste disposal requires digging a 6-8 inch deep cat-hole at least 150 feet from water sources or campsites.

Tom Jones Shelter is celebrated for several unique features that make it a favorite among Harriman State Park's primitive camping options.

• Stunning Valley Views: A major highlight of Tom Jones Shelter is its elevated position, offering "a beautiful view over the valley," as one reviewer noted. From its ledge, visitors can enjoy expansive, almost 180-degree vistas across the surrounding hills and valleys, particularly captivating at sunrise.

• Historic Lean-to Design: Built in 1927, Tom Jones Shelter was the first trail shelter constructed in Harriman State Park. Its robust stone construction, often featuring two interior fireplaces, adds to its rustic charm and historical significance. It sleeps roughly 8 people on a raised wooden platform.

• Accessible Backcountry Experience: While requiring a hike, the relatively short distance (about half a mile) from the Route 106 parking area makes it one of the more accessible lean-tos for an overnight backpacking trip in Harriman, even for families with kids who can manage a short uphill trek.

• Abundant Wildlife: The secluded nature of the shelter means encounters with local wildlife are common. One reviewer was "rewarded with a welcome committee of three deers awaiting me," highlighting the opportunity to observe nature up close. Visitors should be bear-aware and store food properly in bear-resistant canisters or by hanging it.

• Gateway to Diverse Trails: The shelter's location provides excellent access to a network of trails, including the Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail (R-D Trail) and connecting paths to the Victory Trail, allowing for varied hiking loops and extended backpacking adventures.

• Hammock-Friendly Surroundings: The grassy areas surrounding the shelter offer ideal spots for setting up hammocks, providing an alternative sleeping option under the stars for those who prefer it to the lean-to or a tent.

As a primitive lean-to within a New York State Park, Tom Jones Shelter does not participate in commercial promotions or offer traditional discounts. Its "special offer" is the free and unique primitive camping experience it provides.

• Free Overnight Stay: The most significant "promotion" is that staying at Tom Jones Shelter (or camping near it) is completely free of charge. There are no fees or reservations required for using the lean-to or for parking overnight at designated trailheads.

• Accessible Public Land: The very existence of such a primitive camping opportunity so close to a major metropolitan area like New York City is a valuable "offer" in itself, providing accessible wilderness recreation without significant cost.

• Empire Pass Benefit (Indirect): While not directly applicable to the lean-to, the New York State Empire Pass can offer savings for those who frequently visit state parks with vehicle entrance fees (e.g., specific parking lots or beaches within Harriman).

• Educational Opportunities: The primitive nature of the camping experience inherently promotes learning about Leave No Trace principles, responsible outdoor recreation, and self-sufficiency, which can be seen as an invaluable, non-monetary "offer."

• Trail Organizations Support: Organizations like the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference (www.nynjtc.org) provide detailed maps and resources that are essential for safely navigating to Tom Jones Shelter. Supporting these organizations (e.g., through membership) indirectly helps maintain these free public resources.

Tom Jones Shelter is a natural feature within Harriman State Park and does not have a direct phone number or dedicated office. For information related to the shelter, trail conditions, or the broader Harriman State Park, hikers should refer to the following official resources:

General Location: Southfields, NY 10975, USA (Specific access points via hiking trails from areas like Route 106 in Harriman State Park).

For Harriman State Park General Information:

• Phone: (845) 947-2444 (General information line for Harriman State Park)

The most reliable resources for planning a trip to Tom Jones Shelter, including detailed trail maps, parking information, and current park alerts (such as bear sightings or trail closures), are:

• New York-New Jersey Trail Conference: www.nynjtc.org (essential for detailed maps and trail updates).

• New York State Parks Website: parks.ny.gov/parks/145/details.aspx (official park information and general alerts).

Hikers should always plan ahead, carry appropriate gear, and be prepared for primitive conditions.

Tom Jones Shelter is an exceptional and highly suitable destination for New York locals, particularly those with a passion for hiking and a desire for an authentic, primitive camping experience without venturing far from home. Its location within Harriman State Park, just an hour or so from New York City, makes it remarkably accessible for a backcountry overnight trip, either by car to a trailhead or via public transport to Tuxedo and a subsequent hike. This convenience is a major draw for city dwellers seeking a quick yet profound escape into nature.

The shelter's appeal lies in its rugged charm and the genuine wilderness experience it provides. As one camper recounted, despite an "intense" hike, the reward was a "beautiful view over the valley" and a night under the stars, emphasizing the transformative power of the journey. The presence of wildlife, such as deer, adds to the immersive natural feel, reinforcing the sense of being truly "outside of New York City." The ability to stay overnight, either in the historic lean-to or nearby with a tent or hammock, offers a unique opportunity for multi-day adventures or simply a deep immersion in nature.

For New Yorkers eager to develop their backpacking skills, test their endurance on challenging trails, or simply unwind in a serene natural setting, Tom Jones Shelter delivers. It epitomizes the accessible wilderness of the Hudson Valley, offering a much-needed respite and a chance to reconnect with the outdoors, making it a truly valuable local resource for adventurous spirits.

Tom Jones Shelter

Southfields, NY 10975, USA