🌤 Weather at Lake Welch Beach – Harriman by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30–72 °F | 60–85 °F | 36–76 °F | 21–41 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at West Point, 12 mi away, elevation 320 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Lake Welch Beach – Harriman is a public state park in New York near Town of Stony Point in Rockland County County. Spanning 216 acres and established in 1942, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | New York |
| Nearest City | Town of Stony Point |
| County | Rockland County |
| Park Size | 216 acres |
| Established | 1942 |
Location & Getting There
Lake Welch Beach – Harriman is located near Town of Stony Point, New York. The park’s coordinates are 41.2430, -74.1005.
Things to Do
New York’s state park system is one of the largest and most diverse in the nation, spanning glacier-carved gorges in the Finger Lakes, the wild Adirondack backcountry, dramatic Hudson Valley cliffs, sweeping Long Island beaches, and Niagara Falls. Activities range widely: hiking dramatic gorge trails with waterfalls at every turn, swimming at supervised lake and ocean beaches, fishing in world-class trout streams and bass lakes, camping in old-growth forests, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter, mountain biking through rolling terrain, rock climbing at the Shawangunk Ridge, kayaking the Thousand Islands, and golfing at scenic state park courses. Many parks also feature historic estates, Revolutionary War sites, and nature centers with educational programs.
Best Time to Visit
New York’s parks transform dramatically with the seasons. Summer (June–August) is peak season for swimming, waterfalls, and camping — gorge parks like Watkins Glen and Letchworth are busiest during this time. Fall (September–October) brings world-class foliage, especially in the Adirondacks and Hudson Valley, peaking mid-to-late October. Spring (April–May) delivers peak waterfall flow and wildflower blooms, though many gorge trails don’t fully open until mid-May. Winter (December–March) turns Adirondack parks into cross-country skiing and snowshoeing paradises. Note that many gorge trails and swimming areas are closed November through May for safety — always check the park website before visiting.
Visitor Tips
New York state parks charge per-vehicle parking fees ranging from $6 to $10, depending on the park and season. An Empire Pass ($80/year) provides unlimited access to all state parks and is a smart investment for regular visitors. Camping reservations can be made through ReserveAmerica up to 9 months in advance. Popular parks like Watkins Glen and Letchworth sell out months ahead for summer camping. Many gorge parks have mandatory parking reservations on peak weekends — check the park website before driving out. Dogs are allowed in most parks on leash but are typically prohibited on beaches and in gorge trails.
Explore More New York State Parks
Lake Welch Beach – Harriman is one of many outstanding state parks in New York. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in New York guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Lake Welch Beach — in Harriman State Park (47,527 acres, the second largest state park in New York) — provides swimming in a mountain lake surrounded by Appalachian forest. Harriman’s 200+ miles of trails (including the Appalachian Trail) support black bears, coyotes, and timber rattlesnakes. Bald eagles nest along the lakes.
Nearby Attractions
Harriman SP — surrounding — has 31 lakes and 200+ miles of trails. Bear Mountain SP — adjacent — has Bear Mountain Inn and the Trailside Zoo. West Point — 10 miles north — has the US Military Academy. Woodbury Common Premium Outlets — 10 miles west.
More parks nearby: High Tor State Park is a short drive away, while Bear Mountain State Park lies a short drive away.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Lake Welch Beach – Harriman
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are permitted in most state parks and campgrounds (maximum two pets per site where allowed), but policies vary by park and some parks prohibit pets entirely.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash no longer than 6 ft required, pet under control at all times
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted on guarded beaches, boardwalks, pools or spray-grounds
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- No uniform statewide rule — pets are prohibited in buildings and most cabins, but some parks designate pet-friendly cabin areas (e.g. Letchworth Cabin Area C); check with the individual park
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Proof of rabies vaccination required upon request; maximum two pets per campsite; some parks (e.g. Wildwood State Park) do not allow pets at all
Are dogs allowed at Lake Welch Beach – Harriman?
Pets are permitted in most state parks and campgrounds (maximum two pets per site where allowed), but policies vary by park and some parks prohibit pets entirely. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via parks.ny.gov. More: New York state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Lake Welch Beach – Harriman
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
