Tom Jones Shelter

For New Yorkers seeking a true escape from the concrete canyons of the city, the highlands of the Hudson Valley offer a rugged sanctuary right in our backyard. One of the most storied destinations for local backpackers and nature enthusiasts is the Tom Jones Shelter, located in the Southfields region of Harriman State Park. Built in 1927, this historic stone lean-to is perched on a rocky ledge near the summit of Tom Jones Mountain, offering an experience that blends early 20th-century craftsmanship with the raw, untamed beauty of the Appalachian Highlands. It is a favorite for local hikers who want to experience "sleeping under the stars" without traveling hours into the Adirondacks or Catskills.

Harriman State Park is famous for its extensive network of trails and historic shelters, but Tom Jones holds a special place in the hearts of New York residents due to its unique "Outback" feel. The shelter is a three-sided stone structure that welcomes weary travelers with a wide-open view of the surrounding valleys. While it is a primitive site—meaning there is no electricity or running water—it offers a level of seclusion and a connection to the landscape that modern commercial campgrounds simply cannot match. For those looking for a digital detox or a way to introduce their children to the fundamentals of backpacking, this site provides a challenging but rewarding destination.

Location and Accessibility are two of the most important things to understand before planning a trip to Tom Jones Shelter. Situated in the town of Southfields, NY (zip code 10975), the shelter is best accessed from the roadside parking pull-out on Kanawauke Road (Route 106). For those using public transportation from New York City, it is possible to take a bus from Port Authority to Tuxedo, NY, and hike into the park from there, though the trek is significant and requires good navigational skills. For local drivers, the parking area on Route 106 allows for easy overnight parking without the need for a complex registration process.

The hike from the parking lot to the shelter is relatively short—approximately 0.5 to 0.6 miles—but it is characterized by a steep, rocky ascent. New York hikers often describe it as an intense "straight up" climb that can feel longer than the mileage suggests. The trail is marked with the red-dot-on-white blazes of the Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail, the park's oldest and most iconic path. Because the shelter is so close to the road, it is a popular spot for weekend warriors, though the physical effort required to reach the summit ensures that it remains a true backcountry experience. Visitors should be aware that the climb involves navigating uneven terrain and boulders, so sturdy footwear is a must.

• Primitive overnight shelter accommodation on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Designated tent sites located within a 300-foot radius of the shelter for those who prefer more privacy.
• Two interior fireplaces within the stone structure for warmth and atmosphere.
• Outdoor fire rings for safe campfire cooking and evening gatherings.
• Access to a network of over 200 miles of hiking trails throughout Harriman State Park.
• Dog-friendly camping, provided pets are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them.
• On-site parking available at the Route 106 pull-out for overnight stays.

The Features and Highlights of Tom Jones Shelter are centered around its incredible geography and history. Standing at the shelter, you are rewarded with a nearly 180-degree panoramic view that spans the northeastern, eastern, and southern horizons. On clear days, the shimmering waters of Lake Sebago and Lake Kanawauke are visible in the distance, providing a stunning contrast to the green and grey of the mountain ridges. The open, grassy area surrounding the shelter is perfect for picnics and stargazing, as the elevated position keeps you above much of the valley mist.

• Breathtaking panoramic views of the Harriman hills and several artificial lakes.
• Historic architecture featuring massive local granite stones and heavy timber roofing.
• Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, with frequent sightings of deer, hawks, and songbirds.
• Proximity to "Toad Rock" and other unique glacial erratics and geological formations.
• A perfect "starter" backpacking destination for families with children (kid-friendly but strenuous).
• Integration with the Ramapo-Dunderberg and Victory trails for extended loop hikes.
• A historic 1927 stone cabin feel that evokes the early days of New York's park conservation movement.

Because the Tom Jones Shelter is a primitive backcountry site, there is no direct phone number for the shelter itself. It is managed by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. For general inquiries about park conditions, trail closures, or emergency assistance, hikers should contact the regional park office.

Contact Information:
Address: Southfields, NY 10975, USA (Access via Route 106/Kanawauke Road)
Phone: (845) 786-2701 (Harriman State Park Administration Office)

What is worth choosing about Tom Jones Shelter is the raw, unpolished beauty of the New York wilderness. It is a location worth choosing if you value a "low-barrier" entry into the world of primitive camping. You don't need a reservation, and you don't need to pay a fee to use the shelter, making it one of the most accessible ways to spend a night in the mountains. For photographers, the morning sun rising over the valley and the evening shadows stretching across the ridges provide endless inspiration. It is an ideal spot for those who enjoy the camaraderie of the trail, as you are likely to meet Appalachian Trail thru-hikers and fellow local explorers sharing the space.

However, it is important to go in with the right mindset. Because the shelter is not regularly serviced by park staff, it follows a "Pack-In, Pack-Out" philosophy. Responsible New York campers take pride in leaving the site better than they found it, ensuring that trash is carried back to the car and that the fireplaces are left clean. There is no water source at Tom Jones, so you must carry in all the water you need for drinking and cooking—an easy task for a half-mile hike but a vital one to remember. If you are looking for a place where you can sit by a fire, look out over the vast expanse of the Hudson Valley, and fall asleep to the sounds of the wind through the hardwoods, Tom Jones Shelter is a local treasure that provides a truly authentic Pennsylvania-border highland experience.

In summary, Tom Jones Shelter represents the spirit of adventure that defines our region's outdoor culture. It challenges your legs with a steep climb but rewards your spirit with views that rival any in the state. Whether you are there for a quick afternoon picnic or a full night under the stars, the shelter serves as a reminder of the timeless beauty found within the Harriman woods. Pack your gear, check your maps, and head up the mountain for a perspective on New York that you can't get anywhere else.