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  4. Putnam Valley

Luxury Camping at 'Higher Ground'

Hosted by Evan · Putnam Valley, New York
4 guests max · 1 bedroom · 1 bed · 1 toilet
97%
·
49 reviews
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Evan & Laura is a Star Host
Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.
Romantic
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is romantic.
All to yourself
98% of recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp felt private.
HIGHER GROUND sits at the very southern tip of Clarence Fahnestock State Park. It's the ideal getaway if you want to explore Fahnestock, check out neighboring Cold Spring, Beacon, Peekskill, or just want to hang out at the site and read/relax by a campfire. We're only 1.5 miles from a SECRET entrance to Fahnestock and the trailhead to Candlewood Hill, one of the park's most exquisite views.. Just 2.5 miles away is a main parking lot and the hub for several other hiking trails including Catfish Loop, Three Lakes, Old Mine Railroad and the famed Appalachian Trail. We can provide you with a trail map and help plan your hike. Swimming at Canopus Lake is only 7 miles away. Other Fahenstock activities include fishing, boat rentals, biking, and snowshoeing/x-country skiing in the winter. Both the Glynwood Center for Regional Food and Farming and Stonecrop Gardens are only about 8 minutes away. 15 minutes to the west, poised on the Hudson River is the historic colonial town of Cold Spring, with shopping, lovely restaurants, plenty of natural attractions and a picturesque riverfront. 30 minutes northwest is the more bustling hipster vibe of Beacon with coffee shops and live music venues, and 20 minutes southeast puts you in the heart of downtown Peekskill with Hudson Valley MOCA and the Paramount Theater. We offer a 1 night minimum, but reservations for 3 or more nights will receive a 10% discount !‘Hilltop' is our private campsite at Higher Ground. It's tucked away on 6.5 acres of woodlands in our rural neighborhood. The site sits at the top of a ridge along an old equestrian trail lined by two rock walls. A short up hill hike (about 400 feet / 70ft elevation) along 'Hector's Way', leads you to your secluded glamping getaway. Our site is fully equipped with a sturdy wall tent on a raised platform keeping you warm and dry, a flashlight, electric lanterns, firepit w/cooking grate, 2 adirondack chairs, 5 gallon water jug, picnic table, trash can... and even some newspaper to start a fire. (firewood bundles are available for sale in extras) The tent includes a queen size memory foam bed, mosquito net, propane heater, full bedding, and 2 towels. We've stocked the picnic table with dishware, cutlery, frying pan, saucepan, tea kettle, and a french press coffee pot. There's soap, sponges and a dish rack, so please clean whatever you use. This year we've added a bathhouse with a potable water spigot, composting toilet, and on-demand hot water shower only about 50 yards from the campsite. Please limit your shower to 5 minutes. Arrange it with Evan or Laura and we'll bring our two pygmy goats, Buddy & Frieda, up to your site to visit with you !
What to expect
Short walk to site
Parking isn't available at the site. You will park a short distance away and walk to the site (1-5 mins)
Canvas tent
You'll have this Hipcamp all to yourself.
4 guests max
Campfires allowed
Firepit. Firewood is available in the ‘extras’ section
Toilet available
Composting toilet
Pets allowed
Off leash, on leash
Potable water available
Spigot, bottled water or jugs
Showers available
Hot water
Bins available
Trash bin
Cooking equipment present
Grill over firepit, stovetop or hot plate, cookware, cooking utensils, dishware, cutlery, sink or other dishwashing station. The stovetop is available in the ‘Extras’
Picnic table present
No wifi
Laundry absent
Hot Tub absent
No playground

Things to know

Getting there
Check in: 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Early or late check-in may be available
Check out: Before 11:00 AM
On arrival: Head straight to site
Cancellation policy: Strict
Minimum nights: 1 night
Accepts bookings: 12 months out
Short walk
No wheelchair access
Max 2 vehicles
2WD accessible
During your trip
Follow the
Leave it better
Inclusion policyWe have a zero-tolerance policy against discrimination at Hipcamp. We are committed to helping our Host and Hipcamper communities be inclusive.

Lodging

1 site
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site
High demandInstant book

Hilltop Canvas Tent

98%
(53)
Canvas tent · Sleeps 4 · 1 bedroom · 1 bed · 1 toilet
‘Hilltop' is our private campsite at Higher Ground. It's tucked away on 6.5 acres of woodlands in our rural neighborhood. The site sits at the top of a ridge along an old equestrian trail lined by two rock walls. A short up hill hike (about 400 feet / 70ft elevation) along 'Hector's Way', leads you to your secluded glamping getaway. Our site is fully equipped with a sturdy wall tent on a raised platform keeping you warm and dry, a flashlight, electric lanterns, firepit w/cooking grate, 2 adirondack chairs, 5 gallon water jug, picnic table, trash can... and even some newspaper to start a fire. (firewood bundles are available for sale in extras) The tent includes a queen size memory foam bed, mosquito net, propane heater, full bedding, and 2 towels. We've stocked the picnic table with dishware, cutlery, frying pan, saucepan, tea kettle, and a french press coffee pot. There's soap, sponges and a dish rack, so please clean whatever you use. This year we've added a bathhouse with a potable water spigot, composting toilet, and on-demand hot water shower only about 50 yards from the campsite. Please limit your shower to 5 minutes. Arrange it with Evan or Laura and we'll bring our two pygmy goats, Buddy & Frieda, up to your site to visit with you !
Short walk to site
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
Showers

Reviews

97% Recommend54 ratings · 49 reviews
Recommends
· July 2026
Hilltop Canvas Tent
Amazing stay at Evan and Laura’s campsite! My husband and I had a wonderful two-night stay. Evan provided clear directions, responded quickly, and made the whole experience easy and enjoyable. The campsite itself was peaceful, comfortable, and a perfect place to unwind. There is a short hike from the parking area to the tent, so I’d recommend packing light and avoiding heavy items. Overall, we had a great stay and would happily recommend it!
S
Soohyun K.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2026
Hilltop Canvas Tent
Very nice stay, perfect off grid relaxing overnight. The platform is solid and the bed is comfy. It's camping without having to lug in all your own gear. A short uphill hike with a few natural rock steps brings you past the privy then another 100 feet or so (still uphill) to the campsite. Well maintained with tiki torches and a fire pit. Small kitchen type space and a table round out the accommodations. No complaints.
B
B R.
1 month on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2026
Glad to be back at Camp Goat
With kids ·
Hilltop Canvas Tent
We had a great time. This is our second visit to your site. The platform tent is very comfortable for adults and the added classic tent gave us enough room for kids. We really appreciate the firepit, dishes, washing supplies, goats/chickens, and toilet/shower! The location in walking distance to Fahnestock is perfect! Good choice for low key outdoor weekend. Hope to see you again.
A
Anne Marie S.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2026
With pets ·
Hilltop Canvas Tent
We had a great stay! The tent setup was absolutely adorable and thoughtfully put together. It was definitely buggy during our visit, but we were grateful that extra bug spray was provided. The restroom facilities were a wonderful addition and were clean and well-maintained. The hill is no joke, but the listing describes it accurately, so we came prepared. One of the highlights was meeting Evan, Laura, and their beautuful goats and chickens. Overall, a unique and enjoyable experience!
C
Cassie P.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2026
Hilltop Canvas Tent
This is a very beautiful campsite that is very accessible and a perfect experience for first time campers or anybody who just wants a relaxing getaway. There is a lovely trail up to the tent site, which is removed from the house and the road just enough to feel like you are out in the wild on your own. The tent itself is very comfortable filled with amenities. It’s like staying in a little hotel room. They have everything you need for camping. They even have a pretty fancy outhouse and shower situation. We didn’t get to visit the goats, but that was only because it was raining. I highly recommend this camping experience.!
Avatar
Maggie R.
2 reviews
Mixed feelings
· May 2026
With pets ·
Hilltop Canvas Tent
Overall we had a great time! The site was clean and secluded. They provided a lot of necessities that were super useful and there were outlets in the bathroom (a few minutes walk from the main site) which was nice to have. We loved saying hi to the goats on our way out.
D
Diamond L.
4 reviews
Recommends
· April 2026
Nature’s Getaway easy from NYC
Hilltop Canvas Tent
I took the train from NYC Grand Central and got to Evan and Laura’s by a quick Uber ride! It was so lovely, comfortable, everything provided. They were fabulous hosts and super accessible when needed. It was the perfect getaway from the city, very much separate and in the woods while not feeling too isolated, close to water, hiking. I actually walked/hiked back to the train and even the road itself is a beautiful journey. Everything was easy and I would highly recommend staying here!
M
Megan C.
11 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· November 2025
Hilltop Canvas Tent
We had a great weekend in the canvas tent. Very private spot, the heater kept us warm in the tent at night and the fire pit during the day! A lot hiking trails just a very short drive away!
C
Craig P.
8 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· November 2025
Great stay, cool goats!
With pets ·
Hilltop Canvas Tent
Evan & Laura have an amazing set up. They had great communication during our stay and in the week leading up. They checked in to see if we needed anything prior, including the propane heater, which in 30-something degree weather was an essential and extremely helpful. The site truly had anything you could ever need. We were extremely impressed and surprised by the outhouse with toilet, shower, and usb-c chargers(!) inside. Reading reviews beforehand were helpful and led us to pack lighter, given the steep climb up. But the climb was definitely worth it. We also loved how Evan showed us how the goats and chickens were fed. My pup definitely loved running up and down the hill to the site and marveled (sometimes a little too much lol) at the goats and chickens she was seeing for the first time! Evan was both kind and accommodating. Would definitely stay again!
R
Rachael S.
3 reviews
Recommends
· November 2025
Hilltop Canvas Tent
This was our second time at Evan & Laura’s tent! We loved it as much as last time. Beautiful fall foliage around! Highly recommended. We’ll be back, thank you so much!
B
Beatriz D.
2 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
Hilltop Canvas Tent
Evan & Laura have a great secluded site and keep the location in great condition with all the amenities you need.
M
Michael I.
10 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2025
10/10 — loved it!
With kids ·
Hilltop Canvas Tent
Evan & Laura have done a wonderful job with the campsite! It seems like they thought of everything, even the tiniest little details. My son and I really enjoyed the vibe and had a nice evening sleeping inside tent while it rained. Highly recommend!
Avatar
Mike H.
2 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
Magical
Hilltop Canvas Tent
Staying here was a magical experience! We went in mid-October and the leaves were so beautiful. The campsite has everything you could possibly need, the bed was super comfy, and the table was great for cooking and eating breakfast on. The outhouse is extremely clean and even has a shower! The area around the site is stunning too we even saw some deer. The best part is Evan allowed us to help feed the goats and the chickens in the morning! You won't regret staying here
K
Karim K.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2025
Hilltop Canvas Tent
Lots of fun! We are in our 60s and the hike up to the campsite is rough but absolutely doable. The remote setting is very peaceful and Evan is an attentive host. The tent was so cozy!
D
Donna O.
10 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2025
With pets ·
Hilltop Canvas Tent
It was so peaceful there! Isolated but in a neighborhood, quiet sounds of road nearby but not distracting to the peace. All accommodations were as told, nothing fancy but all necessities met and site was clean. My recommendations are to make sure the site is stocked with firewood which Evan did for me, and the heater rental is simply a must in the fall. Like other reviewers said, pack light due to the climb and carry simply made food needs. I would happily return.
Avatar
Holly L.
3 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
Easy Camping Near Charming Towns
Hilltop Canvas Tent
One of the best camping experiences I’ve had! Coming from Manhattan, we didn’t have all our gear to go traditional camping, so this was the perfect blend of camping and lodging. They had a bed, sheets, blankets, pillows, dishes, silverware, kitchen ware, flashlights, chairs, bathroom, and shower to make the trip easy and light. Walking up the hill with firewood was a trek, but that’s always expected with camping. For what the hosts provide and the cleanliness of the site, I think this was definitely worth the price. Not to mention, we got to see their goats and chickens and explore nearby cities/trails that were absolutely charming. I’d book again!
M
Mauree S.
10 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2025
With pets ·
Hilltop Canvas Tent
Beautiful location, very secluded, amenities were amazing, and very friendly host. The goats and chicken were cute. Pack very light, or be prepared for a lot of steep climbing to get to the tent site, though! It was a bit stressful carrying luggage up and down while having a toddler around.
J
Jasmine B.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2025
With pets ·
Hilltop Canvas Tent
We had an amazing time at Evan and Laura’s luxury campsite. The campsite was private but not so remote that we felt like we couldn’t get in touch with Evan and Laura if we needed anything. The composting toilet was very easy to use and clean, and although we didn’t use the shower, it was also clean and well maintained. It was a great space to let our dog off leash and roam. We cooked a meal over the fire and Evan and Laura provided all the necessary cookware. We went for a trail walk along the Hudson and explored the village of Cold Springs, both recommended by our hosts, and we had a great time. All in all, it’s a perfect space for some “glamping” with a dog and suits novice campers well.
T
Terence B.
11 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2025
Lovely campsite!
With kids ·
Hilltop Canvas Tent
Evan & Laura's campsite was so lovely. Their property is so well kept. They have a marvelous shower and compost outhouse. The camping site is up a beautiful hill of rocks. The tent is clean and sweetly decorated with painting of the goats and chickens they keep on the property. It was such a great city escape! The highlight for me and my daughters was that they let the girls help them feed the goats and chickens in the morning. It was a memorable experience!
E
Elizabeth S.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2025
A place to relax & do cardio.
Hilltop Canvas Tent
Visit with my adult so for some peace & quiet. We did accomplish that. You must be fit and in good health to stay here; otherwise you will have a hard time. There are a lot of things you don’t have to worry about since the host provides them. However you have to be ready to do chores. It’s called luxury camping, but it doesn’t mean you don’t do anything. The space and the canvas tent is comfortable. The bed was comfortable, but if you are to large people it will be difficult to sleep comfortably. We met Evan and he gave us a quick tour and explained everything. Nice folks. The only suggestion I have for the hosts. upgrade your sheets and your quilts and make sure they’re properly washed with a clean scent order. Also attention to the pillows. The cost is a bit high. I think that for two people it should be $125.00 per night, not $200.00. Just being fair and honest.
R
Roberto M.
11 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2025
Great camp & great location!
With pets ·
Hilltop Canvas Tent
This was a great campsite, in a great location. We did not actually meet our hosts face-to-face, but they did an excellent job communicating with us and making sure we had everything we needed. The site was very well cared for and had all the accessories we needed for an easy camping weekend. I had my pup with me and he loved being able to explore around the campsite off leash. The toilet was appreciated and the hot shower was such a nice treat! The location is also very convenient. We could access hiking trails in Fahnestock SP from very close to the house, and it was also a quick drive into Cold Spring when we wanted to enjoy civilization. Our hosts had some great suggestions, which we really appreciated! Definitely worth a visit :-)
Avatar
Johnny M.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2025
Hilltop Canvas Tent
My partner and I hiked from Garrison train station and back mostly through a section of the Appalachian trail. It was such a wonderful experience to stay at Evan & Laura’s after a beautiful hike. Everything was perfect and camp was very well equipped. They helped us figure out the trails. Highly recommend the stay and if you can the hike as well! We will be back!! Thank you so much!
B
Beatriz D.
2 reviews
Recommends
· July 2025
Hilltop Canvas Tent
We really loved our experience at Evan and Laura’s place. Everything was as described and they were reachable at all times if we needed something. Perfect for someone that is looking for something different and relaxing. We also enjoyed visiting Cold Spring and Beacon when we left the next day and really liked those towns.
L
Linette V.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2025
We can't wait to come back!
Hilltop Canvas Tent
We loved our time here! It felt very remote and peaceful even as we drove in. The climb up to the site is real, don't underestimate how steep it is. We did and brought way too much gear! Left about 90% of our unnecessary items in the car and were more than fine with what they provided. This is not pull up car camping, so don't pack like it is. They have everything you need up there, for real! They were wonderful hosts! Our dogs were able to be off leash the whole time and it was easy to teach them both to leave the goats (who are in their pen) alone. The bed is really quite comfy! The lighting was great with the small lamps they leave on the side tables. Very cozy inside the tent! And omg the heater, use it!!! It was amazing on cold and rainy nights. It's nature, there are bugs. Ticks are plentiful this year so do regular tick checks. They do provide you with plenty of bug spray. We are excited to have discovered this gem of a place! The location can't be beat, the accommodations are very well thought out and the hosts were wonderful!
C
Carrie P.
2 reviews
Recommends
· April 2025
An ideal camping experience
Hilltop Canvas Tent
Evan and Laura's site was perfect. Everything you need is provided, both were very responsive to any questions we had, the bathroom and shower were way better than what we're used to at campsites and they offered suggestions for local hikes and a great butcher shop. The goats are pretty darn cute too. Highly recommend this site!
E
Emily N.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· November 2024
Hilltop Canvas Tent
Evan and Laura are great, the camp site is even better than the photos. To me it was the ideal glamping experience. I highly recommend it.
S
Stéphane R.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2024
Hilltop Canvas Tent
Evan and Laura were very accomdating. Evan met us at the entrance and walked us through everything we needed. I cannot be more content with the place. A fantastic experience!
I
Ian L.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2024
Wonderful time!
Hilltop Canvas Tent
We had a wonderful time here! Evan was really helpful, and everything that you need is provided. The composting toilet is lovely and clean. We saw the goats and chickens. Only spent one night, but it's a short trip from Westchester. Will definitely be back.
Avatar
Anne D.
4 reviews
Recommends
· October 2024
Live Deliciously
Hilltop Canvas Tent
I really lovely camp site, in a beautiful part of New York.Well maintained, well run and a deftly crafted experience, topped by wonderful vistas and adorable goats.
J
John K.
2 reviews
Recommends
· October 2024
Hilltop Canvas Tent
Great campsite! Evan was very hospitable and kind to us. Felt very at peace after being in the city for so long.
P
Praj C.
2 years on Hipcamp

Location

Putnam Valley, Putnam, New York, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
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Hosted by Evan & Laura S.

Joined in August 2023

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