The best ranch campgrounds near Walden, New York

The Hudson Valley village of Walden is just an hour and a half north of New York City, making it an easy escape from the city. Surrounded by the gentle rolling hills of the Great Appalachian Valley and the Hudson Highlands to the southwest, it’s an attractive place to spend a while. Visitors will find plenty to do in the village’s surroundings, from visiting contemporary art galleries and sculpture parks to hiking in the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve. Those who want to set up camp will find plenty of nearby options.

98% (1.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Walden

The Hudson Valley village of Walden is just an hour and a half north of New York City, making it an easy escape from the city. Surrounded by the gentle rolling hills of the Great Appalachian Valley and the Hudson Highlands to the southwest, it’s an attractive place to spend a while. Visitors will find plenty to do in the village’s surroundings, from visiting contemporary art galleries and sculpture parks to hiking in the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve. Those who want to set up camp will find plenty of nearby options.

98% (1.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Walden

1. The Mountain Top @Wright's Farm

97%

(766)

7.8mi from Walden · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

It all started when grandfather Charles B Wright first establish this farm in 1904. He purchased it for its natural springs. In our barn (now home to Gardiner Brewing Company) he had gravity fed water troughs for his cattle. Since then we have slowly switched from animals to tree fruit. You will enjoy rolling hills of fruit trees and fruit gardens along with beautiful views of the Shawangunk Mountain Ridge. We have 450+ acres so it in very private. As we are a working farm, you can see us driving pass with our tractors or maintaining the orchard around your campsite on occasion. You are welcome to ride your bikes, hike or jog where you will pass ponds and a working farm landscape. Please don’t pick our fruit. If you would like to enjoy the fruits of our labor please visit our farm store open year round on the premises where we sell cheeses, our fresh picked fruit and veggies, local meats, and our famous cider donuts along with other farm products. We also have a farm brewery open 3-7 in our old dairy barn for you to enjoy. Live music Saturdays and Sundays. Minnewaska State Park and Mohonk Reserve are only 10 minutes away. The rail trail is three minutes away. This trail gives you walking and biking access into New Paltz, where there is tons of restaurants and lots of shopping. Please be aware that during the months of September and October there may be a Pick-Your-Own customer or two walking around picking apples around the campsite area between the hours of 10:00-6:00. You are also welcome to come down to the farm market and purchase bags to pick your own apples in season.

2. Dominion House Farm and Trails

99%

(282)

11mi from Walden · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

This historic renovated Hudson Valley ranch offers four sites convenient from Interstate 84, the NYS Thruway Interstate 87, and Route 17/Interstate 86. Site 1 is a leveled stone pad easily accessible from the paved driveway, in front of two rustic barns where campers enjoy 30 amp electric service and a picnic table. Sites 2, 3 and 4 are in a private field (w/o service) each including a picnic table and fire ring. There are 40 acres including walking trails, and miles of adjacent rail trails for hiking/mountain biking from your site. Visit Brotherhood winery/restaurant, local breweries, Storm King Art Center, Washington's Headquarters, West Point, Motorcyclepedia museum, Lego Land, Woodbury Commons Premium Outlets and more.

3. BeaverWood Farm (no children)

99%

(1004)

34mi from Walden · 42 sites · Tents, RVs

A 15 acre farm with over 100 LOOSE FARM ANIMALS! Lake views, free boats, a hot shower, picnic tables & fire rings. No children under 16. There are no specific campsites here. Cheap firewood, $20/shelf. We provide a custom Google Map, full of farm details and several local activities like boating in the lake, hiking up a nearby Walnut Mountain and swimming at the gorge, a secret swimming hole. Well behaved dogs are welcome and may be off leash if they do not chase the animals. We cannot offer reimbursement for tents damaged by animals. This is extremely rare, but it CAN happen. If you do not wish to put your tent at risk, please do not camp here. We charge "per person, per night", not by the campsite or vehicle. Check-in anytime between 10am and 9pm. Follow us on Instagram or Facebook: @beaverwoodfarmers

4. Rangers Respite Retreat

36mi from Walden · 1 site · Tent

🌲 Rangers Respite Retreat – Red Hook, NY Escape to peaceful seclusion at Rangers Respite Retreat, a private woodland campsite on a quiet hobby farm in the Hudson Valley. Set on nearly a mile of forest trails, this tent-only site offers a rustic lean-to shelter, large fire pit, cooking grill, picnic table, and plenty of open space to relax and reconnect with nature. Enjoy total privacy surrounded by tall trees, starlit skies, and the soothing sounds of the woods. It’s ideal for solo campers, couples, or small groups who value quiet and simplicity. Amenities: Potable water, fire pits, picnic table, and pet-friendly. Note: No toilet or shower facilities — true back-to-nature camping. Located in Red Hook, just a short drive from Rhinebeck and the Catskills. Perfect for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful forest getaway.

5. Campsites at Stonewall

97%

(94)

6.8mi from Walden · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Fall is here the leafs are changing. Come spend the next couple weekends with us!! The weather looks beautiful all weekend..We have a wonderful panoramic views with the best sunsets and star gazing . We have horses. Ponies, goats, ducks, chickens, and turkies on site!!! We are kid and pet friendy And lots of other wildlife. We are Close NYC and all major highways. Surrounded by tons of loca attractions. Hiking and fishing close by. There are fantastic local restaurants, wineries and breweries cise bye. This beautiful and private 97 acre horse farm is made up of beautiful rolling fields filled with horses. The property is nicely surrounded in beautiful woods with plenty of nature to watch. The property was originally used for farming then converted to dairy. And now a horse farm. This farm was established around 1815. . We enjoy meeting new people and being able to share this wonderful property!

6. Liberty Ranch

97%

(93)

37mi from Walden · 26 sites · Tents, RVs

Our 100 acres of private property is nestled in the mountains of the Catskills countryside and offers views of rolling hills with fresh crisp air and magnificent streams of mineral spring water rushing throughout the property! We have several large open fields on gorgeous meadows for yoga and ball playing or anything you wish as well as woodland areas with tall trees and hiking trails for exploring. We host large and small crowds, birthday parties, camping events, weddings, and other types of gatherings! This is a place like no other in the area with some of the greatest views for awesome photo shoots! Come experience it for yourself. Our camping areas are primitive with natural resources. We have firewood available. Please read the entire description and all of the instructions

7. The 1895 Farm Camp

100%

(69)

4.3mi from Walden · 1 site · Tent

Purchased in September 2024, our farm was once part of a larger farm adjoining our property. Our neighbors 27 acres where part of the original farm as well. where they still grow vegetables, collect honey from their bees, and maple syrup from our trees, all of which is available at the farm stand next door. Learn more about this land: Our small, sweet farm is a wonderful place to stay! We offer a private camping site on the other side of our pond with wooded trails!  Come enjoy the beauty which includes our animals. We have horses (Chuck, Karl and Snookie), chickens and sometimes farm fresh eggs are available. Our farm is quiet, lovely and peaceful! Near our farm you can find many activities including: Angry Orchard, Lego Land, Goshen Historic Track, Trotter's Museum, West Point, Minnewaska & Mohawk, the Hudson river. Fishing hiking & climbing. There is also a local gun club nearby that is open to the public. Wineries, dining, horseback riding, Woodstock Museum, Renegades Baseball Stadium, Monticello Race Way, Apple Orchards and our favorite, many local farm stands.

8. Glamping Yurt on a Farm

100%

(89)

42mi from Walden · 1 site · Lodging

Our 18 acres has been farm land for hundreds of years. After many years of overgrowth, we homesteaded the property in 2012. We cut trees, milled wood and built our homes and barn. We live in harmony with our animals and our crops in a permaculture environment. We are just miles from many beautiful lakes, rivers and spectacular parks. Enjoy a farm stay in our luxurious yurt tent complete with queen size bed and outdoor shower. Meet the goats, cows, ducks, chickens, our pony, Mr. BoJangles and our thoroughbred, Ruby Tuesday, and have a walk. Plenty of things to do locally. Visit the many vineyards and breweries, take a cooking class at Hunt Hill across the street, visit the quaint NE towns such as Kent or Washington.

9. Gatherwild Ranch

92%

(13)

42mi from Walden · 13 sites · Lodging

Welcome to Gatherwild Ranch, featured in The New York Times and home to 8 beautiful and unique accommodations spread out on the rolling hills of a former apple orchard in the heart of the Hudson Valley in Upstate NY. We provide a luxurious farmstead experience, and offer a place to comfortably reconnect with nature. Enjoy the privacy of your site or meet meaningful community in the common areas. Explore the bustling nearby upstate town of Germantown, Hudson and Rhinebeck, drop in a swimming hole, cool off in our sprinklers, enjoy our beautiful bathhouse amenities, pet a goat and collect duck eggs for your breakfast, and stargaze by your private fire at night. The experience of a lifetime is at your fingertips.

10. Ten Mile River: Lakeside Cabins

39mi from Walden · 3 sites · Lodging

Ten Mile River Scout Camps (TMR) is a large wilderness area of over 12,000 acres in the Sullivan County Catskills, New York, encompassing several summer camps (Keowa, Aquehonga, Ranachqua) and a Public Lakeside Camp. This environment, featuring lakes, meadows, and access to the Delaware River, provides a perfect backdrop for a relaxing outdoor getaway. Family Camp at Ten Mile River Scout Camps is a unique public campground located on beautiful Lake Nianque. Designed as the scout camp for families, we offer an expansive program for youth and adults seeking a summer camp experience. The facility features secluded cabin sites, many of which are right on the shore. Family Camp is well equipped to provide a refreshing and enjoyable outdoor adventure for the whole family. Our Lakeside and Family Camp is unique in that the entire family—from toddlers to grandparents—can participate in outdoor activities or spend the day relaxing in the beautiful, secluded forest. Most families return year after year for the fun, camaraderie, and togetherness of Lakeside. Camp staff run daily programs suitable for all ages and provide access to program areas at the Scout summer camps. Looking for a more private event, family reunion, or a couple’s romantic woodland experience? Our Schiff cabins are ideally located in a small area away from the bustle and excitement of Summer Camp programming. Read a book, relax, and meet new friends. Join in evening programs—from potluck dinners and movies to karaoke and campfires—it’s always fun for the whole family. A great waterfront, supervised by a certified lifeguard, awaits you. Enjoy a refreshing swim or use the rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and sailboats. Go fishing and try to catch the “BIG ONE.” Beyond the waterfront, there are mountain bikes available for your use, a craft lodge, the Red Dot Trail for hikes, volleyball, and horseshoes. Or, if you’d rather just spend quality time with your family in a pristine natural environment, you can do that too. Participate in as much of the Family Camp programs as you like.

Camper favorites near Walden

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Rangers Respite Retreat

36mi from Walden · 1 site · Tent

🌲 Rangers Respite Retreat – Red Hook, NY Escape to peaceful seclusion at Rangers Respite Retreat, a private woodland campsite on a quiet hobby farm in the Hudson Valley. Set on nearly a mile of forest trails, this tent-only site offers a rustic lean-to shelter, large fire pit, cooking grill, picnic table, and plenty of open space to relax and reconnect with nature. Enjoy total privacy surrounded by tall trees, starlit skies, and the soothing sounds of the woods. It’s ideal for solo campers, couples, or small groups who value quiet and simplicity. Amenities: Potable water, fire pits, picnic table, and pet-friendly. Note: No toilet or shower facilities — true back-to-nature camping. Located in Red Hook, just a short drive from Rhinebeck and the Catskills. Perfect for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful forest getaway.

Campsites at Stonewall

97%

(94)

6.8mi from Walden · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Fall is here the leafs are changing. Come spend the next couple weekends with us!! The weather looks beautiful all weekend..We have a wonderful panoramic views with the best sunsets and star gazing . We have horses. Ponies, goats, ducks, chickens, and turkies on site!!! We are kid and pet friendy And lots of other wildlife. We are Close NYC and all major highways. Surrounded by tons of loca attractions. Hiking and fishing close by. There are fantastic local restaurants, wineries and breweries cise bye. This beautiful and private 97 acre horse farm is made up of beautiful rolling fields filled with horses. The property is nicely surrounded in beautiful woods with plenty of nature to watch. The property was originally used for farming then converted to dairy. And now a horse farm. This farm was established around 1815. . We enjoy meeting new people and being able to share this wonderful property!

Liberty Ranch

97%

(93)

37mi from Walden · 26 sites · Tents, RVs

Our 100 acres of private property is nestled in the mountains of the Catskills countryside and offers views of rolling hills with fresh crisp air and magnificent streams of mineral spring water rushing throughout the property! We have several large open fields on gorgeous meadows for yoga and ball playing or anything you wish as well as woodland areas with tall trees and hiking trails for exploring. We host large and small crowds, birthday parties, camping events, weddings, and other types of gatherings! This is a place like no other in the area with some of the greatest views for awesome photo shoots! Come experience it for yourself. Our camping areas are primitive with natural resources. We have firewood available. Please read the entire description and all of the instructions

The 1895 Farm Camp

100%

(69)

4.3mi from Walden · 1 site · Tent

Purchased in September 2024, our farm was once part of a larger farm adjoining our property. Our neighbors 27 acres where part of the original farm as well. where they still grow vegetables, collect honey from their bees, and maple syrup from our trees, all of which is available at the farm stand next door. Learn more about this land: Our small, sweet farm is a wonderful place to stay! We offer a private camping site on the other side of our pond with wooded trails!  Come enjoy the beauty which includes our animals. We have horses (Chuck, Karl and Snookie), chickens and sometimes farm fresh eggs are available. Our farm is quiet, lovely and peaceful! Near our farm you can find many activities including: Angry Orchard, Lego Land, Goshen Historic Track, Trotter's Museum, West Point, Minnewaska & Mohawk, the Hudson river. Fishing hiking & climbing. There is also a local gun club nearby that is open to the public. Wineries, dining, horseback riding, Woodstock Museum, Renegades Baseball Stadium, Monticello Race Way, Apple Orchards and our favorite, many local farm stands.

Glamping Yurt on a Farm

100%

(89)

42mi from Walden · 1 site · Lodging

Our 18 acres has been farm land for hundreds of years. After many years of overgrowth, we homesteaded the property in 2012. We cut trees, milled wood and built our homes and barn. We live in harmony with our animals and our crops in a permaculture environment. We are just miles from many beautiful lakes, rivers and spectacular parks. Enjoy a farm stay in our luxurious yurt tent complete with queen size bed and outdoor shower. Meet the goats, cows, ducks, chickens, our pony, Mr. BoJangles and our thoroughbred, Ruby Tuesday, and have a walk. Plenty of things to do locally. Visit the many vineyards and breweries, take a cooking class at Hunt Hill across the street, visit the quaint NE towns such as Kent or Washington.

Gatherwild Ranch

92%

(13)

42mi from Walden · 13 sites · Lodging

Welcome to Gatherwild Ranch, featured in The New York Times and home to 8 beautiful and unique accommodations spread out on the rolling hills of a former apple orchard in the heart of the Hudson Valley in Upstate NY. We provide a luxurious farmstead experience, and offer a place to comfortably reconnect with nature. Enjoy the privacy of your site or meet meaningful community in the common areas. Explore the bustling nearby upstate town of Germantown, Hudson and Rhinebeck, drop in a swimming hole, cool off in our sprinklers, enjoy our beautiful bathhouse amenities, pet a goat and collect duck eggs for your breakfast, and stargaze by your private fire at night. The experience of a lifetime is at your fingertips.

Ten Mile River: Lakeside Cabins

39mi from Walden · 3 sites · Lodging

Ten Mile River Scout Camps (TMR) is a large wilderness area of over 12,000 acres in the Sullivan County Catskills, New York, encompassing several summer camps (Keowa, Aquehonga, Ranachqua) and a Public Lakeside Camp. This environment, featuring lakes, meadows, and access to the Delaware River, provides a perfect backdrop for a relaxing outdoor getaway. Family Camp at Ten Mile River Scout Camps is a unique public campground located on beautiful Lake Nianque. Designed as the scout camp for families, we offer an expansive program for youth and adults seeking a summer camp experience. The facility features secluded cabin sites, many of which are right on the shore. Family Camp is well equipped to provide a refreshing and enjoyable outdoor adventure for the whole family. Our Lakeside and Family Camp is unique in that the entire family—from toddlers to grandparents—can participate in outdoor activities or spend the day relaxing in the beautiful, secluded forest. Most families return year after year for the fun, camaraderie, and togetherness of Lakeside. Camp staff run daily programs suitable for all ages and provide access to program areas at the Scout summer camps. Looking for a more private event, family reunion, or a couple’s romantic woodland experience? Our Schiff cabins are ideally located in a small area away from the bustle and excitement of Summer Camp programming. Read a book, relax, and meet new friends. Join in evening programs—from potluck dinners and movies to karaoke and campfires—it’s always fun for the whole family. A great waterfront, supervised by a certified lifeguard, awaits you. Enjoy a refreshing swim or use the rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and sailboats. Go fishing and try to catch the “BIG ONE.” Beyond the waterfront, there are mountain bikes available for your use, a craft lodge, the Red Dot Trail for hikes, volleyball, and horseshoes. Or, if you’d rather just spend quality time with your family in a pristine natural environment, you can do that too. Participate in as much of the Family Camp programs as you like.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

A

Andrea

November 2025

12 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Dominion House Farm and Trails

Theres something really special about this place! The horses are amazing, the land and trails are beautiful and the people are nice and friendly! My old van made it easily up the hill and the parking was nice and flat and the power hookup very good! My dogs also had a great time! The WiFi worked very well on the iPad but the phones struggled a bit. But really I have to dedicate some words to the horses: oh my, what beautiful animals they are! And they are all rescue! Mama and Lacey stole my heart!

B

Bridget

November 2025

25 ft Class C

With kids

1 night at Dominion House Farm and Trails

Just stayed overnight as a quick stopover. It was dark, quiet, safe, and level couldn’t ask for more.

E

Erika

November 2025

19 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Campsites at Stonewall

I have to say, first initial sight, I was confused. I didn't know where I was at. Im glad raplh had us meet because I would have probably driven to the wrong portion of the land. The land is huge. I needed an electrical for my van but I didn't have the right outlet. Ralph helped me with that. He's great. We had such a lovely stay. Everyone we encountered in the town was just amazing and friendly. Ralph was very helpful with any questions we had and very patience.. Overall, we had such a great time. Ty again for everything.

Gavin

November 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Liberty Ranch

This place is perfect for my taco with a RTR. So many great spots to set up and it’s hard to say what my fav is.

Molly

October 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Mountain Top @Wright's Farm

Really nice large, private and flat campsite! Beautiful view of the fall foliage in the Gunks. We loved our stay and enjoyed the short walk down to the brewery and farm stand for food, drinks, and music. Quick drive to all the climbing and hiking and biking in the area. Cant wait to come back!

Paul

October 2025

15 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Dominion House Farm and Trails

We enjoyed the easy and quick set up on this beautiful property. The fallen leaves made it that much more picturesque. Our host was very responsive to our messages, and the nearby town of Washingtonville is very quaint, and we wished we had had more time to enjoy it. The Inn looked very elegant and welcoming in the night.

Gavin

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Liberty Ranch

Love it here. Perfect for my truck with an RTT. Good variety of sites and Solomon is always improving on them

Duane

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Campsites at Stonewall

Ralph is an amazing host. The county park we intended to stay at was closed, however, a county employee recommended Ralph. We contacted him very late in the afternoon and he responded within 10 minutes!!! Several sites with grassy areas, plenty of room for our 45' truck/trailer. Power is available if needed. Very quiet location, our dogs loved to run across the fields. ATT-2

G

Genevie

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to BeaverWood Farm (no children)

Great place to camp with great views of the lake. Farm animals on the property are friendly and very cute. We got to bottle feed a baby calf and hand feed other farm animals, lots of fun. At night we enjoyed cooking over campfires, stargazing with a glass of wine. Paul and Marilyn are great hosts, look forward to visiting next summer.

K

Kenneth

October 2025

16 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to BeaverWood Farm (no children)

This place is amazing, it’s the only HipCamp site I have ever gone back to more than once. Three trips so far and plan to go back. The animals are very docile, the hosts are as friendly as can be but give you your space. Plenty of room to spread out. Generous amount of wood on site for the $$$.

A

Anna

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to BeaverWood Farm (no children)

Such an incredible experience. I expected to be on a small piece of land with a few animals, and we discovered a beautiful property with animals of all ages and varieties. The hosts were warm and invited guests to interact with the animals/feedings/grounds. Nothing better than to wake up to baby goats.

B

Boston

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to BeaverWood Farm (no children)

So much fun! Third time going to this beautiful farm. And will be going back again. Paul and Marilyn are wonderful and the animals become your best friends. Don’t be surprised if you end up sharing your campfire with some four legged friends!

Jill

October 2025

13 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Campsites at Stonewall

We loved camping on Ralph's horse farm with our small teardrop camper. We used a site that had electric hookup and Ralph filled our fresh water tank from his well. He and his dog Minnie gave us a great tour of the property. The horses are beautiful. Ralph was super friendly and accommodating. We highly recommend it!

R

Rebecca

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to BeaverWood Farm (no children)

My new favorite place! Such a fun spot to get away to and you cannot beat spending time with all their great animals.

D

Dan

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Liberty Ranch

I stayed here with 5 friends for a night. We had a spot right next to a creek with a fire pit, a running creek, and an outhouse nearby. Had a great stay.

M

Morgan

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to BeaverWood Farm (no children)

You have to stay here!! You will not regret it. It’s SO beautiful in the fall and the animals are all so sweet and friendly. What an amazing experience. Paul and Marilyn are so sweet and made the experience even better. I can’t wait to visit again!

S

Steven

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to BeaverWood Farm (no children)

Paul and Marilyn's farmyard brand of hands-off chaos and order just works so well. Simple but thoughtful and functional touches of à la carte hospitality, and dynamic acreage allow you to tailor an experience based on your partiality for beasts and campers. P & M are lighthearted, thoughtful and spontaneous, which seemingly rubbed off on their very friendly, mostly-behaved stock. It’s a farm after all! Ten out of ten. Would do again.

E

Elizabeth

October 2025

19 ft campervan

1 night at Campsites at Stonewall

The landscape is breathtaking…..then you add in horses grazing so peacefully, what could be better. Wonderful area to walk and take in all the natural beauty of the property. Luna, resident kitty 🐈‍⬛ is a joy, and Minnie is Ralph’s sidekick and sweet as can be. Just a wholesome place to spend the end of the day and sleep in a quiet bubble. This is my second stay and plan on more. Ralph is a special host, you will feel right at home as he shares his property with you.

K

Kris

October 2025

Tent

1 night at The Mountain Top @Wright's Farm

We camped on the Hill Top site at Wright's land and Check in was easy and the drive up to the site was simple. The shop you check in to is super charming and filled with local stuff. We got the apple cider doughnuts in the morning and they were so soft and delicious. Over all a very lovely time, the view from Hill Top is amazing. I am definitely coming back.

S

October 2025

Tent

With kids

5 nights at Campsites at Stonewall

I loved the site! Ralph is very friendly and my family and I had a lovely time. I would highly recommend it.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best ranch camping near Walden guide

Where to go

Beacon

Just a 20-minute drive east over the Hudson from Walden, Beacon is famed as the home of the contemporary art gallery Dia: Beacon and home to a number of galleries, boutiques and antique stores. Another 25 minutes east of Beacon, Fahnestock State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who can hike, bird, boat, fish, and set up camp at the seasonal Fahnestock State Park Campground.

Cornwall-on-Hudson

A 25-minute drive south of Walden takes you to the outdoor sculpture park, Storm King Art Centre, named for nearby Storm King Mountain. You can spend all your time here wandering around the sprawling, 500-acre park, but don’t miss hiking in the pristine Storm King State Park nearby.

Poughkeepsie

Heading 40 minutes northeast out of Walden, the city of Poughkeepsie is home to Hudson Valley's most unique state park. The 1.28-mile Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park spans the Hudson River and is the world's longest elevated pedestrian bridge, offering excellent views of the Hudson Valley.

Bear Mountain

A 40-minute drive south of Walden, Bear Mountain State Park offers hiking, biking and cross-country ski trails as well as river fishing access. Adjacent to Bear Mountain is Harriman State Park with 31 lakes, two beaches, 200 miles of trails and camping at primitive Beaver Pond Campground.

When to go

Spring and summer are the ideal times to visit to enjoy the trails and water activities on offer in the Hudson Valley. However, given the area’s proximity to New York City, you should expect crowds in the peak summer season, especially on weekends and holidays. September and October can also get busy with visitors arriving to see the vibrant colors of fall foliage while winters offer skiing and snowshoeing. Note that some popular attractions in the area, such as Storm Mountain Art Center, close in winter.