Given the amount of attention backpacking gets in these here parts, one may be lead to believe that I favor backpacking to car camping. That simply is not true. Ok, maybe it is a little bit true but when the air becomes crisp and I find myself craving for a home with a hearth, car camping is where it is at. Let's be real folks, my dreams of an apartment with a fireplace, yard, and parking space are not going to be realized any time soon.
The addition of a vehicle and a prescribed camping spot enables cold-blooded people like me to enjoy the great outdoors. The other weekend I brought camping no fewer than 2 jackets, 2 sweatshirts, 1 long sleeved tee, 1 tank top, 2 pairs of pants, a couple pairs of socks, hat and gloves not to mention various sleeping bags/pads. With the forecast predicting nightly temperatures in the 20s, I left nothing to chance. Being properly bundled meant I could actually enjoy the great outdoors and fully embrace the arrival of fall. And to be a complete cheese ball, there’s something magical about the combination of autumn air, roasted marshmallows and bourbon-spiked cider around a campfire with friends. For us New Yorkers, these next few weeks look ideal for those of you wanting to venture out on your own car camping adventure. If you're up for it, here's what I would recommend for the perfect fall getaway:
STAY
At the risk of sounding repetitive, Harriman/Bear Mountain State Parks are the perfect locale for a weekend camping trip. They're only about an hour from the city and the parks are big enough to experience something new every time you visit. Beaver Pond Campground is open through the end of October on a walk-in basis. We had no trouble securing a spot last Saturday and there were plenty of places to park your tent without being on top of your neighbors. If you're looking for something within the city limits, try Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn. And for those of you sans gear and car, check out Malouf’s Mountain in Beacon.
EAT
S'mores are a must in this environment and frankly it would be a sacrilege to go without. I'm more of a deconstructionist (each element consumed separately, please) rather than a purist but some version of graham crackers + marshmallows + chocolate are an absolute necessity. Also, we are all adults – get the good stuff. With regard to meals, pick up some trail mix, jerky, and apples for an easy hiking lunch. Cheesy sandwiches that can be wrapped in tin foil and thrown on the fire make for a delicious dinner. For breakfast, get yourself to a diner after breaking down camp and questioning your sanity. Your hair will be matted across your forehead, your derriere will be lumpy from all the added layers, and you will have a particularly musty scent affixed to your clothing. Fear not, the locals won’t notice you and the kind wait staff will happily serve you up the best hot coffee and fried eggs.
SLEEP
The drop in temperature is no joke, especially for someone who spends most of the winter under an electric blanket. (Don’t knock it until you try it). In addition to the standard tent (do not forget the fly) and sleeping bag, I highly recommend a sleeping pad. It not only provides a nice cushion but also adds some insulation to help you stay toasty throughout the night. Extra blankets and layers are also a good idea, especially since I find that a sleeping bag rated to 30 deg F means I can sleep comfortably in weather around 50 deg F. Last but definitely not least, this is one of those moments when you want to sleep four people in a 4-person tent. Body heat is an asset and now is the perfect time to get up close and personal with your friends.
Anyone else dreaming of a woodland weekend adventure?
note:
most of these photos are from a hike to the old jackie jones fire tower (see below). the views are epic (can you find the itty bitty nyc above?) but watch your step should you choose to climb it. quite a few steps are missing and a number of boards are loose. if you are staying at beaver pond, the park staff can help you with finding your way to the trail. it's about 3 miles round trip if you go directly there and back.
