The best camping near Home Of Franklin D Roosevelt National Historic Site

Presidents of the United States have the most awesome boyhood homes. That's definitely true of FDR's Springwood mansion along the Hudson River. This stone edifice in Hyde Park, New York, also houses the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library.

Springwood's 300-acre site befits a president who oversaw the Great Depression, World War II, and four terms. He did all of this while suffering from polio, which made it hard to walk. The elaborate gardens and greenery gave FDR a respite from his toils, and deservedly so. Millions of Americans depended on his leadership for their livelihoods.

Start at the visitor's center to orient yourself. Take in one of the ranger-led tours of the mansion. They last about an hour. Your tour includes viewing a library filled with 14,000 books. Marvel at more than 2,000 pieces of art depicting naval scenes. FDR collected more than 1.2 million stamps, some of which are on display.

The presidential library displays artifacts, photos, and film reels from FDR's time in office. See how he handled the Great Depression as Roosevelt brought the economy out of a calamity.

FDR also led the nation through World War II. He was instrumental in forming the allied alliance and ultimately defeating Germany and Japan.

This pristine area harbors great camping spots near the river. Fall foliage makes the Hudson River Valley sing with orange, red, and yellow in October.