The Stamford region offers camping options in the surrounding state forests and county parks of New York, with elevations ranging from near sea level to around 1,200 feet at higher points in Harriman State Park. Most tent camping sites require a 25-40 minute drive from Stamford's city center. Weather conditions can vary significantly, with summer humidity making bug protection essential at coastal sites like Watch Hill.
What to do
Hiking extensive trail systems: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation provides over 40 miles of trails connecting directly to campsites. A camper noted, "There are elevation gain, creeks, and open fields for stargazing. You have the options of a lean to here." Trails range from beginner-friendly to moderate difficulty.
Swimming in natural lakes: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center features a peaceful lake for swimming during summer months. One visitor mentioned, "The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio." The swimming area includes dock perimeters making it safer for inexperienced swimmers.
Beach camping: At Watch Hill Fire Island Campground, campers can experience oceanfront camping. "Backcountry Beach Camping" allows more privacy: "Just walk down to the beach after check-in and walk east until you see a pole with a tent symbol on it. After that you can choose where you want to set up camp."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Croton Point Park, tent sites are situated away from the RV area with natural separation. One camper shared: "Tent site is after the RV site, so use their LX before you get to site if you can. Dumpster and water near sites." Another mentioned that "Tent sites are very private with some dirt roads to exit out but thats what make it unique experience!"
Year-round availability: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation maintains open camping throughout winter, unlike many seasonal sites in the region. A regular camper confirms: "They have great sights and are open all year round. Ive stayed in hammocks, tents, leantos, and even did a good share of car camping."
Lake views and wildlife: Mountain Lakes Park includes multiple small lakes with minimal development. Campers often report wildlife sightings, including beaver activity at the Harriman Outdoor Center where visitors reported: "We watched [beavers] from the dining hall patio."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Most campgrounds near Stamford require in-person booking rather than online systems. At Battle Row Campground, reservations must be made directly through their office. Similarly, one camper noted about Ward Pound Ridge: "There is no phone or internet reservations and has to be made in person at the office."
Bug protection essential: Fire Island campers face significant insect challenges. "We were immediately getting attacked so we doused ourselves in deet. Even with the bug spray, the relief didn't last long." Another advised: "Def bring a shelter or a canopy with a mosquito net!!!"
Fire restrictions: Several campgrounds have specific fire regulations. Watch Hill doesn't permit open fires, only allowing charcoal in provided grills or camp stoves. At Battle Row, "There are NO fire pits, you must bring your own. Fires are allowed but you must have a fire container or bucket for your fire off of the ground."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Mountain Lakes Park offers recreational facilities specifically designed for children. Croton Point Park features "a decent playground for young kids" with campsites positioned nearby, allowing parents to monitor children while setting up camp.
Educational programs: At Watch Hill, "There are park rangers on site and have excellent programs for kids." These ranger-led activities typically include wildlife identification, history presentations, and guided nature walks.
Clean facilities: For families concerned about sanitation, Battle Row receives positive reviews: "The bathroom was very clean and well stocked." This makes it suitable for campers with young children who may require regular bathroom access.
Tips from RVers
Limited full hookup options: Most campgrounds near Stamford offer limited or no hookups for RVs. Croton Point Park has "a mix of w/e (6 sites) and FHU sites" but they are arranged "back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together."
Access restrictions: Several campgrounds have limitations on RV size or access. At Ward Pound Ridge, the roads can be challenging for larger vehicles. One RVer noted that Croton Point could accommodate larger rigs but cautioned about navigation within the campground: "Big-rig friendly" but requires careful maneuvering on interior roads.
Seasonal considerations: RVers should note that many sites that accommodate RVs near Stamford have seasonal limitations. A camper mentioned about Croton Point: "When we checked in, we had to write down our credit card number on a slip of paper before we were given a key that opened the gate to the campground."
