guide about Bear Mountain State Park
Welcome to Bear Mountain State Park
Bear Mountain State Park is a popular outdoor recreation destination located in New York’s Hudson Valley. It covers over 5,000 acres of diverse landscapes, including forests, lakes, and mountain peaks. The park’s centerpiece is the 1,305-foot-tall Bear Mountain, which offers panoramic views of the Hudson River and the surrounding countryside.
Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and cross-country skiing. There are several well-marked trails that wind through the park’s forests and along the river’s edge, providing opportunities for bird watching, wildlife observation, and scenic vistas. The park also features a large campground, which includes both tent and RV sites.
In addition to outdoor recreation, Bear Mountain State Park offers several amenities and attractions, including picnic areas, a playground, a historic museum, and a zoo. The museum showcases the rich history of the area and its people, while the zoo is home to a variety of domestic and exotic animals.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking to enjoy some time in nature, Bear Mountain State Park is an ideal destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and many recreational opportunities, this park is a true gem in the heart of the Hudson Valley.
Hours
Dawn to Dusk
Open year round
Fees
$10.00 per vehicle *pool & other amenities additional
Location
Palisades Parkway or Route 9W North Bear Mountain, NY 10911
Contact Info
(845) 786-2701
Plan Your Visit
Here are some of the park’s notable facilities:
Picnic Areas: The park features several picnic areas with tables and grills, perfect for a day out with family or friends.
Campsites: Bear Mountain State Park offers campsites for tents, trailers and RVs. There are also cabins available for rent.
Hiking Trails: The park has a network of trails that offer stunning views of the Hudson River and the surrounding mountains. The trails range from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
Boat Rentals: Visitors can rent boats and kayaks for use on the lake. Fishing is also available on the lake for those who want to try their luck at catching some fish.
Swimming Pool: The park has a large swimming pool that is open during the summer months. The pool is a great place to cool off and have fun on a hot day.
Playgrounds: The park has several playgrounds for children to play on, making it a great place for families with young children.
Zoo: Bear Mountain State Park is also home to a small zoo, which features a variety of animals, including black bears, wolves, and mountain lions.
Museum: The park has a museum that showcases the history of the area and the park itself, including information about the indigenous people who once lived in the region.
Overall, Bear Mountain State Park offers a wide range of activities and facilities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing picnic, a challenging hike, or a fun day with the family, you’ll find something to love at Bear Mountain State Park.
Hiking: The park features several scenic trails that lead to stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Hudson River.
Camping: The park has both tent and RV camping sites, as well as cabins and yurts that are available for rent.
Fishing: Bear Mountain State Park has several lakes and streams where visitors can fish for a variety of species, including trout and bass.
Boating: Visitors can rent boats or bring their own to explore the park’s scenic lakes.
Swimming: There are several designated swimming areas within the park, including a sandy beach on Hessian Lake.
Picnicking: The park has several picnic areas with tables and grills, making it the perfect place to enjoy a meal with family and friends.
Winter Activities: During the winter months, visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing, ice skating, and sledding at Bear Mountain State Park.
- Park Admission: Check if a park admission fee is required and if you have the required documentation to enter the park.
- Clothing and Footwear: Make sure you pack appropriate clothing and footwear for outdoor activities and changing weather conditions.
- Food and Drinks: Pack snacks, water, and any necessary food for your visit. If you are planning a longer hike, bring enough food for the day.
- Sun Protection: Don’t forget to bring sunblock, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- First Aid Kit: Pack a basic first aid kit, including band-aids, pain relievers, and any necessary medications.
- Maps and Guides: Familiarize yourself with the park’s trails, maps, and facilities before your visit.
- Camera: Bring a camera to capture your memories of the park.
- Trash Bags: Pack some extra trash bags to help keep the park clean and maintain its natural beauty.
- Insect Repellent: Pack insect repellent if you’re visiting in the warmer months when insects are more active.
- Cash: Have cash on hand for parking, park admission fees, and vending machines.
- Optional Equipment: If you’re planning on fishing, boating, or kayaking, make sure you have the necessary equipment and licenses.
- Remember to respect the park’s rules and regulations and to leave no trace of your visit to help preserve the park’s natural beauty for future generations.
