Big Hill Shelter

Introduction / Overview

For New Yorkers seeking a true escape into the wilderness without venturing too far from the metropolitan bustle, Big Hill Shelter in Stony Point, NY, offers an unparalleled backcountry camping experience. This historic lean-to, nestled within the expansive Harriman State Park, provides a rugged yet rewarding destination for hikers, backpackers, and nature enthusiasts. Dating back to 1923, Big Hill Shelter is more than just a place to rest your head; it's a testament to the enduring appeal of New York's natural landscapes and a gateway to exploring some of the region's most captivating trails.

Big Hill Shelter is renowned for its strategic location, offering not only a peaceful respite but also some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the area, including a breathtaking glimpse of the distant New York City skyline on clear days. This unique feature truly sets it apart, allowing visitors to appreciate the vastness of the natural world while still feeling a connection to the vibrant city life. Unlike traditional campgrounds with car access, Big Hill Shelter is a hike-in only destination, promising an authentic wilderness adventure. It encourages self-reliance and a deeper appreciation for the outdoors, making it an ideal spot for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves fully in the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley. Its well-maintained structure and inviting atmosphere have made it a beloved spot among the hiking community, consistently delivering peaceful and memorable experiences for all who venture to its elevated perch.

Whether you're planning a challenging through-hike along the Long Path or simply looking for a unique overnight experience in Harriman State Park, Big Hill Shelter provides a memorable base. Its rustic charm, combined with the raw beauty of its surroundings, creates an inviting environment for contemplation, camaraderie, and an unforgettable connection with New York's wild side. Visitors consistently praise its well-kept condition and the stunning vistas it affords, solidifying its reputation as a must-visit destination for local outdoor enthusiasts.

Location and Accessibility

Big Hill Shelter is located at Camp Winaki Rd, Stony Point, NY 10980, USA, deep within the scenic Harriman State Park. As a backcountry lean-to, it is not directly accessible by vehicle but rather requires a hike to reach. This hike-in nature is precisely what makes it so appealing to those seeking a genuine wilderness experience, removing the noise and distractions of front-country camping.

Access to Big Hill Shelter is primarily via well-marked trails within Harriman State Park. One common approach is via the Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail or connecting segments of the Long Path. Hikers often begin their journey from various trailheads in and around Stony Point, such as those off Route 106. The trails leading to the shelter offer a diverse hiking experience, ranging from moderate to challenging, with varying elevation gains. It is important for visitors to research their chosen trail route in advance, considering factors like distance, elevation, and current trail conditions. While the specific parking areas may vary depending on the chosen trailhead, many public parking lots are available within Harriman State Park, designed to accommodate hikers embarking on multi-day excursions or day trips to the shelters. The journey to Big Hill Shelter is an integral part of the experience, winding through lush forests and offering glimpses of the park's rugged beauty.

For New Yorkers, this means a relatively short drive to the trailhead from much of the metropolitan area and surrounding suburbs, followed by a rewarding hike. The remoteness of the shelter, despite its geographic proximity to major population centers, contributes significantly to its allure. It allows for a profound sense of escape and solitude that is often difficult to find so close to a bustling urban environment. Visitors are encouraged to consult detailed trail maps from organizations like the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference to plan their route effectively, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey to this hidden gem.

Services Offered

• Three-Sided Stone Shelter: Provides basic, rustic overhead cover and protection from the elements.
• Two Interior Fireplaces: Available for cooking and warmth, offering a unique and authentic backcountry amenity.
• Outdoor Fire Ring: An additional designated area for campfires outside the shelter, perfect for gathering.
• Wooden Sleeping Platform: Inside the shelter, a raised wooden platform offers a designated sleeping area.
• Dispersed Campsites: Surrounding the lean-to, grassy and open areas provide space for additional tent setups or hammocks.
• Bear Boxes: Shared bear-resistant storage containers are typically available near the shelter for safe food storage.
• Trail Access: Directly connected to major hiking trails, including the Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail and the Long Path.

Features / Highlights

• Panoramic NYC Skyline Views: On clear days, the shelter offers a remarkable distant view of the New York City skyline, a truly iconic sight from the wilderness.
• Historic Structure: Built in 1923, the stone shelter possesses a rich history and unique architectural character.
• Peaceful and Well-Kept: Visitors consistently praise the tranquil atmosphere and the maintained condition of the shelter and surrounding area.
• Proximity to Plane Crash Site: A somber yet fascinating historical point of interest along one of the common hiking trails leading to the shelter.
• Abundant Hiking Opportunities: Situated amidst a vast network of trails in Harriman State Park, offering countless routes for exploration.
• Access to Jackie Jones Mountain Fire Tower: A nearby attraction providing even more expansive views, accessible via a short hike from the shelter.
• Authentic Backcountry Experience: Ideal for those seeking a primitive camping adventure, requiring hikers to carry in all their supplies.
• Star-Gazing Potential: Far from significant light pollution, the location offers excellent opportunities for observing the night sky.

Contact Information

Address: Camp Winaki Rd, Stony Point, NY 10980, USA

As Big Hill Shelter is a backcountry lean-to within Harriman State Park, there is no direct phone number for the shelter itself. For general information about Harriman State Park, trail conditions, or camping regulations, it is best to refer to the official New York State Parks website or contact the Palisades Interstate Park Commission. Relevant information can often be found through the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) or the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, as these organizations are actively involved in trail maintenance and provide resources for hikers in the region.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Big Hill Shelter offers an exceptional and highly suitable outdoor experience for New Yorkers, perfectly blending accessibility with a genuine sense of wilderness. For city dwellers and suburban residents across the state, the opportunity to embark on a challenging yet rewarding hike to a historic backcountry shelter, culminating in panoramic views that include the distant New York City skyline, is truly unique. This proximity means that a profound escape into nature isn't just a distant dream but a feasible weekend or even overnight adventure, easily reached from many parts of New York.

The very nature of Big Hill Shelter—a hike-in lean-to—is perfectly aligned with the desires of many New Yorkers who value physical activity, self-sufficiency, and a deeper connection to nature. It provides a much-needed respite from the urban environment, offering a chance to decompress, breathe fresh air, and engage with the natural world on a more intimate level. The shared fireplaces create a communal atmosphere for campers, fostering connections with fellow outdoor enthusiasts, while the surrounding open areas allow for a more private experience if desired. The practical considerations, such as the need to carry in wood and water, cultivate a heightened appreciation for resources and encourage responsible camping practices, making it an ideal learning ground for those new to backcountry adventures and a cherished spot for experienced trekkers.

Furthermore, the rich history embedded in the shelter's 1923 construction and the intriguing nearby plane crash site add layers of interest to the journey, transforming a simple hike into an exploration of local heritage. Big Hill Shelter is more than just a destination; it's a quintessential New York outdoor experience, providing a peaceful, memorable, and immensely rewarding opportunity for locals to reconnect with the wild beauty that lies just beyond their doorstep. It embodies the spirit of adventure and the restorative power of nature, all within a remarkably convenient reach for residents of the Empire State.