Balsam Site

- Balsam, North Salem, NY 10560

Balsam Site, situated within the expansive and beautiful Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park in North Salem, New York, is a hidden gem for local New Yorkers seeking an authentic, year-round camping and outdoor experience close to home. It offers a wonderful contrast to the fast-paced city life, providing a rugged landscape, native hardwood forests, and miles of trails to explore. The name “Balsam Site” refers to the dedicated area within the park that welcomes campers seeking a refreshing escape into nature. This destination is managed by Westchester County Parks, ensuring a well-maintained and accessible natural retreat for residents.

Unlike typical seasonal campgrounds, the camping area at Mountain Lakes Park—often referred to as Balsam Site due to its location within the broader park facilities—is notable for its unique and appealing year-round offerings. It is a fantastic option for families, friends, and solo adventurers who value accessibility and a genuine rustic camping environment without the need for extensive travel. The park’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty, which includes rock outcroppings and meandering streams, means that every visit offers a truly picturesque setting for relaxation and recreation.

The core of the camping experience here is focused on simplicity and immersion in the environment. It's a place where the focus is firmly on the outdoors, offering a traditional, rejuvenating way to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature. For local New Yorkers, this site represents a convenient and high-quality opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the region throughout all four seasons, providing a consistent and reliable option for outdoor enthusiasts living in Westchester County and the surrounding areas.

The park itself was acquired by the county in 1961 and is characterized by a rugged, forested landscape that includes the highest mountain in Westchester County, which contributes to the stunning views and varied terrain found across its extensive trail system. Balsam Site is thus not just a place to pitch a tent or stay in a shelter; it is an access point to a significant regional natural preserve that has been carefully managed to retain its wild character.

Balsam Site is located in the charming town of North Salem, New York, a part of Westchester County. This strategic location makes it incredibly accessible for residents across the greater New York metropolitan area, especially those in Westchester, Putnam, and Fairfield (CT) counties. While the specific address provided is: Balsam, North Salem, NY 10560, USA, users should note that the camping area is situated within the larger boundaries of Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park, whose official address is often listed as 201 Hawley Road, North Salem, NY 10560.

Its proximity to major roadways, including Interstate 684, allows for a relatively short and straightforward drive from many parts of New York City and its northern suburbs, providing an easy weekend getaway without the stress of long-distance travel. For local New Yorkers, this accessibility is a key selling point, as it drastically reduces travel time and maximizes time spent enjoying the outdoors. The convenience of a nearby escape cannot be overstated, making it a viable option even for a quick mid-week overnight stay.

Once inside the park, the landscape is rugged, defined by native hardwood forests and beautiful natural features like five distinct lakes and a spectacular overlook that provides breathtaking views. The park is open seven days a week, from dawn to dusk, year-round. This consistent schedule ensures that local users can plan their visits with confidence, regardless of the season. Directions to the site often involve following signs within the park for the camping and day-use areas. It is always advised to check the Westchester County Parks official website or call the park office for the most precise driving instructions and any seasonal changes in access.

The camping experience at Balsam Site is geared toward providing a rustic yet functional retreat, focusing on the basics of wilderness camping with essential amenities. The primary camping structures available are Lean-tos, which offer a simple, three-sided shelter experience.

• Year-round Lean-to camping is available.
• Each Lean-to shelter comes equipped with an outside grill for cooking.
• Designated fire rings are provided at each site for campfires (only kiln-dried firewood is allowed, and some is available for purchase at the park office).
• A picnic table is included with each shelter for dining and recreation.
• Portable toilets are available near the camping sites.
• Canoe rentals are seasonally available at Hemlock Lake on weekends (check for current hours and availability).
• Reservations for camping permits are required and can be made by calling the park office on Sundays, Mondays, or Thursdays.
• Sleeping capacity is limited to eight people per standard Lean-to shelter.
• Two double Lean-to sites are available, accommodating up to 16 people.

The true appeal of Balsam Site lies in the extensive natural features and recreational opportunities available within Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park. These highlights transform a simple camping trip into a complete outdoor adventure.

• A rugged, expansive landscape defined by native hardwood forests and rock outcroppings.
• Miles of well-maintained trails for hiking, traversing the park's varied terrain.
• Five scenic lakes, including Hemlock Lake, which is available for non-motorized boating.
• Spectacular overlook providing panoramic views, making it a popular hiking destination.
• Home to the highest mountain in Westchester County, Mount Bailey, offering a rewarding challenge for hikers.
• Prohibition of RV camping, which maintains a more authentic, rustic, and quiet camping atmosphere.
• A lodge/dining hall is available for rental, accommodating large groups for events (separate from the camping area).
• Prohibition of alcohol ensures a family-friendly and controlled environment for all campers.

For all inquiries, including camping reservations and current conditions, local users should contact the park office directly.

Address: Balsam, North Salem, NY 10560, USA (within Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park)

Phone: (914) 864-7312

Mobile Phone: +1 914-864-7312 (Note: This is the same park office number, confirming direct contact access.)

Note that camping reservations are crucial and must be made in advance by calling the office on specific days (Sundays, Mondays, or Thursdays).

Balsam Site, nested within Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park, is an ideal outdoor retreat for New York-area residents, particularly those in Westchester County and beyond. Its suitability for locals stems from a potent combination of geographic convenience, unique year-round camping availability, and the preservation of a genuine wilderness experience. The short drive time allows for spontaneous weekend trips and easy access to a full range of outdoor activities, maximizing relaxation time and minimizing travel hassle. The year-round Lean-to camping offers an unusual and appealing option for local users who want to embrace the outdoors even in the colder months, providing a reliable and safe base from which to explore the park. Whether you are an avid hiker looking to conquer the highest peak in the county, a family seeking a quiet weekend escape by the lake, or a couple desiring a rustic and affordable getaway, Balsam Site provides the necessary infrastructure and natural beauty. It is a vital local asset, offering a tangible connection to nature that is often missing from dense urban and suburban life, solidifying its place as a top-tier local destination for camping and outdoor recreation in the New York region.

Balsam Site

Balsam, North Salem, NY 10560, USA