Tent camping near Woodbury Center, Connecticut offers accessibility to both the Western Highlands and Housatonic Valley regions, with elevations ranging from 700-1,100 feet throughout nearby camping areas. Most campsites in this region experience temperature drops of 10-15°F at night compared to daytime highs, even during summer months. Winter camping opportunities continue at select locations when many seasonal sites close from November through April.
What to do
Hiking extensive trail networks: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation features over 40 miles of marked trails suitable for various skill levels. As camper Ethan K. notes, "The best part of this campsite are the endless trails in the area... Would definitely recommend for those who want to camp near NYC but not drive too far."
Seasonal stargazing: Open field areas at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation provide excellent nighttime viewing opportunities. According to Seth K., there are "elevation gain, creeks, and open fields for stargazing" making it a "great local spot" for astronomy enthusiasts.
Water recreation: At Croton Point Park along the Hudson River, visitors can enjoy swimming during designated hours. Jonathan C. mentions "a 30-40 minute drive from Western Queens" with beach access, though noting the "site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm" despite the 10pm quiet time.
Wildlife observation: Mountain Lakes Park offers multiple lakes and diverse habitats for bird and wildlife watching. As Ben H. describes, it's "a gorgeous piece of land that contains lakes, a lookout and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County."
What campers like
Secluded lean-to options: At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, campers appreciate the privacy of certain sites. Misty V. shares, "Beautiful campsites! Lots of lean to sites with fireplaces in them... Our favorite site is #25. Up a hill, totally private and has a lean-to."
Proximity to wilderness with urban convenience: The region offers camping experiences close to developed areas. Paul R. comments that Ward Pound Ridge is "open all year round" and he's "been coming here for years" having "stayed in hammocks, tents, leantos, and even did a good share of car camping."
Trail-accessible primitive sites: At Onion Mountain Park, campers can find more rustic experiences. Ricky H. describes it as "Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis... However, it's not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite."
Extended backcountry options: For more experienced hikers, Brassie Brook Shelter offers remote camping. Tina D. explains, "This site is just south of the Bear Mtn summit. You can park at the Undermountain Trailhead area... The lean-to fit our small tens, and there is a picnic table. There's also a bear box near by."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary significantly: Many locations require in-person booking. Will L. notes about Ward Pound Ridge: "The one downside is that you need to book in person but it can be done well in advance if need be."
Facilities differ by location: Some sites have minimal amenities. At Riga Lean-To, Nora S. points out "there's no picnic tables at the other spots but there is one for the lean-to. Carry out all your trash, but there are toilets."
Trail difficulty considerations: Access to some camping areas requires substantial hiking. Nora S. describes reaching Brassie Brook: "We started our hike at the under-mountain trailhead, located right off route 41, and climbed up the mountain. Be prepared for steep inclines, and lots of rocks."
Fire restrictions: Several wilderness camping areas prohibit open flames. At Ten Mile River Shelter, Sue B. cautions "there are no fires allowed on the CT A.T." while clarifying that although anyone can camp there, it's "designated for folks hiking the A.T., whether thru-hikers, section hikers, or whatever."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and facilities: Croton Point Park offers family-friendly amenities. Thomas notes, "Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper" making it convenient for parents to monitor children.
Group-friendly sites: Certain areas accommodate larger family gatherings. Andrew A. mentions Croton Point Park is "a good park/camp for groups. They have cabins and RV sites" though warns "there is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night."
Fall activities: Seasonal camping opportunities include regional festivities. Wendy C. recommends, "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!"
Beginner-friendly options: Newer camping families can find supportive environments. Marshall S. says about Onion Mountain Park: "My BSA troop has been going here for years to help new scouts learn to camp. It is a very casual site and good for your first trip, you are close to your car and the road in case you need it."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Few RV sites offer full hookups in the immediate Woodbury area. Lee D. reports at Croton Point Park, "A county park with a mix of w/e (6 sites) and FHU sites plus about a dozen tent sites" but notes "the FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together."
Reservation process challenges: RVers should prepare for booking complications. Lee D. continues, "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 size considerations: Many campgrounds in this region have limited space for larger rigs. At Mountain Lakes Park, Ethan K. mentions a "fun option available at Mountain lakes is to rent a yurt to camp in" for those seeking an alternative to traditional RV camping.
