I have done some hiking in the area around Cragsmoor and along the ridge toward Mohonk. It has been 5-6 years since I've been there, but I hiked the area extensively as a kid. There are two good areas for photography near Cragsmoor - even better if you like to hike.
The Bear Hill nature preserve is relatively small. It can be found on the north side of Cragsmoor, turning left near the library. There are some nice views to the west over the valley and of rock formations, birds, etc.
In the Cragsmoor area, there is a very nice old church with a beautiful rose window and views overlooking the valley and Ellenville.
From the Cragsmoor side, go all the way to the end of the road into the nature preserve at Sam's Point. There are some opportunities for shots around the reservoir around Sam's Point. The road on the top circles the lake. On the east side, there is a spur road that goes toward parking for the old ice caves. You will see a parking area for the hiking trails.
Following the hiking trail, you have a hike of about 2 to 2 1/2 miles one way to a waterfall and nice stream. It is possible to hike to the bottom of the waterfall, but the trail is rough. Another 1 1/2 miles over a bit rougher trail takes you up to the ridge top with some great views and the first of a series of natural ponds. I knew it as mud pond, and the trail is probably a bit overgrown, but ultimately circles the lake.
One of the best areas is around Lake Awostings. I believe it can be most easily reached from Lake Minnewaska. Awostings is a beautiful clear mountain lake - really quite large. Surrounding trails are wide and at one time permitted carriages.
Photo opportunities range from the rugged mountains and lakes, to wildlife and wild flowers, and to ruins of the old hotels. As you may know, Cragsmoor was a thriving art colony in the arly 1900's. There were a large number of mountain homes, a golf course, and a summer theater through the 1930's. Ultimately, most were abandoned by the 1950's.
Hope this helps.
Eric