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
Features / Highlights
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.
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Hiking
Good for kids
Kid-friendly hikes
Great spot as always – peaceful and memorable Hiked up to Big Hill Shelter from Route 106 on June 7th. The trail passes by the site of an old plane crash, which adds a somber but fascinating piece of history to the hike. It was a humid day with lots of mosquitoes, so definitely bring bug spray if you're coming in early summer. Despite the conditions, Big Hill Shelter was as great as ever — peaceful, well-kept, and a perfect place to take a break or spend the night. Always worth the trip!
This is an amazing shelter built in 1923. We packed in to check out the area for a through hike for the long path to the Adirondacks from 175th street in the heights. There's nothing better than the two fireplaces that we used for cooking and, for heat. The view of NYC is absolutely amazing!!! This was one of my favorite camp outs though i would strongly suggest that you bring as much wood up from the bottom of the mountain as the top has been completely stripped of wood also water is down low not on the top of the mountain.
Nice place to spend the night - lots of flat clear areas for tents and the shelter is in a great state. There is a large boulder near the shelter - if you sit on top of that or the top of the shelter roof, there is a beautiful view of the sunrise. Only downside is there doesn't seem to be a close water source (closest we found was ~2.5 miles away). The forest around the shelter has been picked pretty clean for wood to burn and there are some areas where people have clearly chopped down trees for firewood - it's a shame.
Very nice shelter . I spent a night camping here.
Very nice shelter.