Tent camping near Newtown, Connecticut offers access to more than 40 miles of trails across multiple protected areas, with elevations ranging from river valleys to Westchester County's highest point at Mt. Bailey (1,280 feet). The forest composition includes predominantly oak, maple, and beech trees, creating moderate shade coverage over most primitive camping spots. Fall brings temperatures averaging 55-65°F during the day and 40-45°F at night, ideal for hiking and camping without summer crowds.
What to do
Hiking extensive trail networks: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation provides over 40 miles of trails suitable for various skill levels. According to a visitor, "I believe there are over 40 miles of trails in this area. Would definitely recommend for those who want to camp near NYC but not drive too far." The trail system accommodates both casual walkers and experienced hikers with clearly marked paths.
Lakeside activities: Mountain Lakes Park offers multiple lakes for recreation and fishing. A camper noted, "Mountain Lakes park is a great place to camp within driving distance from NYC. The area, as the name implies, is home to several lakes which can be used for various recreational purposes." The park also features Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County.
Winter camping options: Several campgrounds remain open year-round, including Croton Point Park on the Hudson River. For those interested in off-season camping, "We came in October to celebrate Halloween in sleepy hollow! This is a great campsite and reasonably priced. Was close to bear mountains state part and the train station is right there!" Winter camping requires additional preparation but rewards with solitude.
What campers like
Shelter options beyond tents: Several campgrounds offer shelters as alternatives to traditional tent camping. At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, campers appreciate the lean-tos: "The shelters are great for people who want to camp and not have to worry about unplanned weather." These structures provide protection during unexpected rain while maintaining a rustic experience.
Proximity to New York City: Many campsites serve as convenient escapes from urban areas. A reviewer at The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center highlighted the accessibility: "This campsite is accessible by public transportation. There is a shuttle run by the campsite to and from Tuxedo Park Train Station (reservations on shuttle required)." This makes weekend camping trips possible without a car.
Family-friendly amenities: Campgrounds like Sebago Cabin Camp offer programming specifically for families. "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too." These structured activities provide entertainment beyond typical camping experiences, especially on weekends.
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary: Some campgrounds require in-person reservations rather than online booking. A camper at Croton Point Park explained, "The reservation process is a bit wonky. You need to call (no online reservations) and then wait for an e-mail, but the e-mail does not tell you your assigned site; you have to wait until you check in to find out your site."
Site privacy differences: Onion Mountain Park offers more secluded, primitive camping options. "We ended up finding a very primitive spot off the blue trail (on top of the mountain), where we settled down for the night. The spot is not very big so make sure to bring a smaller tent (no group sites) but has a firepit already set up." These sites require hiking in but reward with solitude.
Wildlife considerations: Bear activity requires proper food storage at most campgrounds. At Onion Mountain Park, a camper advised, "There are a lot of bugs so be prepared, and we did put a bear bag about 100 feet away." Raccoons are also common at riverside campgrounds, requiring similar precautions.
Tips for camping with families
Check for planned activities: Some campgrounds offer regular programming for children. A visitor to Sebago noted, "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends." These can provide entertainment without additional planning.
Consider shelter options: For families new to camping, lean-tos provide an intermediate step between tents and cabins. At Ward Pound Ridge, "The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience. The staff is friendly as well." These structures offer more protection while maintaining the camping experience.
Look for playground access: Hidden Lake Farm and similar properties provide play areas for children. With just five sites, this smaller campground offers "Quiet and Private" camping with amenities including drinking water, showers, and toilets while allowing pets, making it suitable for family camping.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: RV sites are concentrated at specific campgrounds rather than distributed throughout the region. At Croton Point Park, "A county park with a mix of w/e (6 sites) and FHU sites plus about a dozen tent sites." The limited number of hookup sites means early reservations are essential, especially for weekend camping.
Site dimensions and access: Most RV sites in the region accommodate smaller to mid-sized rigs rather than large motorhomes. The back-to-back arrangement at some campgrounds affects privacy: "The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together." This layout creates a more social camping environment.
