Cedar Pond Campground

Cedar Pond Campground is a specialized outdoor destination nestled within the rugged and beautiful landscape of Harriman State Park. Located in Southfields, New York, this campground is a dedicated "pioneer" site, which means it is designed specifically for organized groups rather than individual family camping. For residents of the New York region, Cedar Pond serves as a vital resource for scout troops, church groups, and youth organizations looking to immerse themselves in a primitive wilderness experience. Situated near the high-elevation waters of Cedar Pond, the area offers a serene atmosphere where the focus remains on teamwork, outdoor skills, and a deep appreciation for the natural environment of the Hudson Valley.

The campground is managed by the Palisades Interstate Park Commission and is known for its "no-frills" approach to the great outdoors. Unlike modern commercial campgrounds that may feature Wi-Fi and swimming pools, Cedar Pond provides a true escape from digital distractions. The site is a favorite for local New Yorkers who want to experience the "Blue Line" feel of the Adirondacks while staying within a manageable drive from the metropolitan area. The environment is heavily wooded, offering significant shade and a sense of privacy that is essential for group retreats and educational nature programs.

Location and accessibility are primary considerations for group leaders planning a trip to Cedar Pond. The campground is located at Cedar Pond, Southfields, NY 10975, accessible via Seven Lakes Drive or Tiorati Brook Road. For those traveling from New York City or northern New Jersey, the site is conveniently reached via the Palisades Interstate Parkway or the New York State Thruway (I-87). While the area is secluded, the entry point requires all visitors to check in and register their vehicles, typically at the circle near the Tiorati Office. This ensures a safe and monitored environment for the many children and youth groups that frequent the grounds.

Accessibility at the site is geared toward maintaining the integrity of the forest while providing necessary entry points for equipment. The terrain is characteristic of Harriman State Park—rocky and uneven in places—so sturdy footwear is a must for all campers. However, on-site parking is available for registered group vehicles, allowing for the transport of heavy gear, food supplies, and camping equipment directly to the vicinity of the camping area. The campground’s placement near the intersection of several major hiking trails also makes it an excellent basecamp for those planning multi-day treks through the park’s extensive trail network.

The services offered at Cedar Pond Campground are intentionally basic to support a primitive "pioneer" camping style. There are no electrical hookups or modern cabins; instead, the focus is on traditional tent camping. Management provides essential infrastructure to ensure that groups can stay on-site safely and comfortably while practicing "Leave No Trace" principles. Because the area is located in active bear country, strict food storage protocols are enforced, and residents are often reminded to keep all food locked in vehicles when not in use.

• Dedicated tent sites capable of accommodating large groups of 20 to 50 people.
• Public restroom facilities located within a short walking distance of the main camping areas.
• Public shower facilities available for campers to maintain hygiene during multi-day stays.
• Access to potable running water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
• On-site parking for registered group vehicles and trailers.
• Official registration services provided by the park rangers and the Tiorati Office staff.

Features and highlights of Cedar Pond Campground extend beyond the campsites themselves. The most prominent feature is the proximity to Cedar Pond, a quiet body of water that provides a picturesque backdrop for morning reflections and educational nature walks. The campground is also a central hub for hikers, as it sits near several blazed trails that offer varying levels of difficulty. From kid-friendly hikes around the pond to more strenuous climbs to nearby overlooks, the area serves as an outdoor classroom for young explorers.

• Proximity to diverse hiking trails suitable for different age groups and skill levels.
• Kid-friendly environment specifically tailored to the needs of organized youth groups.
• Picnic tables and designated fire rings at each group site for communal cooking.
• Abundant opportunities for wildlife observation, including birdwatching and tracking forest mammals.
• A quiet, high-elevation setting that often remains cooler than the surrounding valley during summer months.
• A secure, "eyes-on" environment where park staff monitor traffic to ensure the safety of youth participants.

For those interested in booking a site, it is important to remember that Cedar Pond is a "Reservation Required" facility and is strictly for bona-fide organizations. Individual or family camping is typically directed to nearby Beaver Pond or other public campgrounds in the park system. To secure a permit, group leaders should contact the park office well in advance, especially for popular weekend dates in the spring and fall.

Address: Cedar Pond, Southfields, NY 10975, USA

Phone: (845) 947-2444

Mobile Phone: +1 845-947-2444

What is worth choosing at Cedar Pond Campground is the unique opportunity for high-capacity group bonding. In a region where many parks have limited space for large troops or church organizations, Cedar Pond offers plenty of room for dozens of campers to gather in a single, cohesive area. It is worth choosing for the sense of security it provides; the requirement to register at the "circle" and the active oversight by park management create a protected space where leaders can focus on their programs rather than external traffic.

Furthermore, the campground is worth choosing for its authentic wilderness feel. The presence of running water and showers makes it more accessible than truly backcountry sites, yet it remains rugged enough to feel like a real adventure. For many young New Yorkers, a trip to Cedar Pond is their first introduction to the sounds of the night forest and the responsibility of managing a campsite in bear country. Choosing this location ensures a memorable, safe, and educational experience that stays true to the spirit of traditional American camping. Whether you are leading a scout troop through their first badge requirements or hosting a youth retreat, Cedar Pond Campground remains one of the premier group destinations in New York State.

Would you like me to help you draft a sample checklist of food storage and safety equipment specifically for camping in the Harriman State Park bear country?