Map showing campground location near Cross River, New York

Camper submitted image from Ward Pound Ridge Reservation

Ward Pound Ridge Reservation

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Ward Pound Ridge Reservation sits within Westchester County's largest nature preserve, managed by the county's Department of Finance and open year-round to tent campers, hammock hangers, and those who prefer the shelter of a lean-to. The forested grounds hold over 40 miles of trails, a Trailside Nature Museum, and small creeks running through the property. Sites run $45 to $55 per night, and the range of accommodation types, from drive-in car camping to walk-in tent sites, gives the place a flexibility that draws both weekend beginners and returning regulars.

The lean-to shelters are a consistent highlight in reviews. Several have interior fireplaces in addition to exterior fire pits, making the campground a practical choice for shoulder-season and winter trips. Site quality varies considerably, so campers who have visited before recommend going in person to choose a spot. "Up a hill, totally private and has a lean-to," notes Misty V. about site 25, which gives a useful sense of what the better-positioned sites can offer. Some sites sit close together, which reduces privacy, while others are more spread out. Port-a-potties are located near the sites, though the main comfort stations with showers require a longer walk.

One practical note: reservations must be made in person at the park office. No online or phone booking is available. Firewood is sold on-site, and dogs are welcome on leash. Nearby supplies require a drive into Bedford. Campers who want a nearby alternative can also look at Mountain Lakes Park to the northeast. This campground works best for those who want trail access and a range of shelter options within reasonable reach of New York City.

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Map & DirectionsWard Pound Ridge Reservation is located in New York near Cross River

Public Campground

Coordinates

41.25872474 N
73.60334267 W

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Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Hike-In
Backcountry sites.

Site Types

Tent Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

ADA Access
Trash
Picnic Table
Firewood Available
Phone Service
Reservable
Showers
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

40 min from Bridgeport, CT
48 min from Waterbury, CT
48 min from Kiryas Joel, NY
54 min from New Haven, CT

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Reviews10 Camper Reviews - Ward Pound Ridge Reservation

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

4.5

out of 5

10 Reviews

Numerous guests pointed out the beautiful scenery, spacious lean-to sites, and extensive trail system near NYC. Visitors often highlighted the family and pet-friendly atmosphere with quality facilities. The in-person only reservation process was commonly noted as inconvenient.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Misty V.

Scout

Reviewed Nov. 20, 2025

Secluded sites

Beautiful campsites! Lots of lean to sites with fireplaces in them. You have to go in person to make a reservation and pay. The camp area is beautiful, especially in the fall. Pet friendly and kid friendly with a playground available. Our favorite site is #25. Up a hill, totally private and has a lean-to.

Site#25

Month of VisitOctober

Paul R.

Guide

Reviewed Dec. 5, 2023

Well maintained and friendly

Ive been coming here for years. 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. They have many sites and a tone of hiking trails. All of the shelters have fire pits and some have interior fireplaces. The one downside is that you need to book in person but it can be done well in advance if need be.

Siteleanto 19

Month of VisitSeptember

(6) View All

Will L.

Scout

Reviewed Apr. 1, 2022

A Wonderful Stay for new campers!

Stayed three nights and had an amazing time, super cozy by the fire in our shelter and our site was minutes from some amazing trails. plenty of space at each shelter site and they have a lovely staff :)

SiteShelter Site 3

Month of VisitMarch

Mark & Stina J.

Traveler

Reviewed Dec. 16, 2021

Amazing peoperty

It’s a great place. The camping is very premium but the property and hikes are magical. No car noise or nonsense.

Month of VisitOctober

jeremy S.

Scout

Reviewed Sep. 19, 2021

Awesome place!

This is a really great place to camp. The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience. The staff is friendly as well

Siteshelter 15

Month of VisitSeptember

Ethan K.

Legend

Reviewed Jan. 1, 2021

Great shelters, better trails!

This is a great place for camping. The shelters are great for people who want to camp and not have to worry about unplanned weather. The best part of this campsite are the endless trails in the area (see screenshot of AllTrails). 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.

(13) View All

Anil S.

Guide

Reviewed Sep. 13, 2020

Breathtakingly gorgeous camp site!

This is by far one of my favorite camp site I've been to. Simply beautiful sceneries every where you turn. My family and friends stayed at the Kimberly campsite 7 on Sept, 2020 and I have to say, we couldn't ask for a better spot. No mosquitos or bugs. We had a fire pit 🔥, bbq grill and 2 benches that fit 3 tents. Clean porta potties and beautiful little creeks and waterways. There is no phone or internet reservations and has to be made in person at the office. I would recommend call earlier and come in few minutes earlier to 9 am when the office opens to find the best spots. Plenty of parking and hiking trails! Not alot of loud notices or wild animal issues that we experienced. It was beautiful! Only thing is, stores are not near by and had to drive into Bedford to grab food items and camping necessities! I would highly recommend this for anyone!

(15) View All

Susana M.

Traveler

Reviewed Aug. 29, 2020

Nice county park

Close to the city and civilization, yet large enough to have nice trails and creeks to feel away from it all. The camping sites are very different so it’s useful to go in person and select the area. Parking is close, but some of the sites are also pretty close to each other so there is less privacy. It’s a good site to do a quick camping trip. Dogs are welcome on a leash.

(4) View All

Seth K.

Guide

Reviewed Oct. 27, 2018

Great local spot

This is a great local spot that I love to go to get out of the city for a little bit. There’s elevation gain, creeks, and open fields for stargazing. You have the options of a lean to here.

Ming R.

Guide

Reviewed Sep. 1, 2018

Manicured grounds; sites far apart

Ward Pound Ridge is very well known to the locals as a great place for sled-riding in winter (Pell Hill area) and a place for big group gatherings. The many different trails are frequented by the locals as well. In recent years, the county government also allow bow-hunting of deer to control its population during the months of October to December.

As far as camping as a family, it is not too exciting a place for us. The grounds are far too well trimmed, as you can see in one of the videos. There is wide open space and the paths are well paved so kids can have fun riding the bikes or running around. There is also many trails of various difficulty levels to suit everyone, including horseback riders. The Trailside Nature Museum is also fun for the kids.

There are lean-to sites as well as tent sites. A maximum of eight people in two tents are allowed at each site. But if you really do have a party of eight, one picnic table seems to be inadequate. The sites are much farther away from the comfort stations than most campgrounds we have been to. But there are port-a-potties very close to the sites, which is very important when you have young kids.

All in all, it is not a place I would recommend if you want to get close to nature.

SiteLean-to Site #1

Month of VisitAugust

(15) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make camping reservations at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation?

To reserve a campsite at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, contact the park office directly. The reservation process is straightforward, with helpful staff available to assist you. It's recommended to call in advance, especially during peak seasons, as sites can fill up quickly. When reserving, you can request specific areas like the Kimberly campsites, which are highly rated by campers. For the best experience, consider visiting the park in person first to select your ideal site, as the camping areas vary significantly in terms of privacy and features.

What amenities are available at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation campground?

Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers a variety of amenities for campers. The campground features both tent sites and lean-to shelters, with some shelters having interior fireplaces. Each campsite comes equipped with fire pits, and some sites include BBQ grills and benches. Parking is available close to the camping areas, though proximity varies by site. The reservation provides access to numerous hiking trails directly from the campsites. While the campground maintains a natural setting, it offers enough amenities to make your stay comfortable while still feeling immersed in nature.

What are the entrance fees for Ward Pound Ridge Reservation?

Ward Pound Ridge Reservation charges an entrance fee for all visitors. The camping fees are described as "premium" but provide good value considering the quality of the facilities and natural setting. Fees typically vary between weekdays and weekends, with potential seasonal adjustments. For the most current fee information, contact the park office directly before your visit. Remember that camping fees are separate from day-use entrance fees if you're planning to visit before setting up camp.

What recreational activities can I do while camping at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation?

Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers an extensive range of recreational activities for campers. The park boasts over 40 miles of hiking trails with varying terrain including elevation gains, creeks, and open fields. Many trails are accessible directly from campsites, making it easy to explore. The open fields are perfect for stargazing at night. During winter, the Pell Hill area is popular for sledding. The park is also known for group gatherings and picnics. With its diverse landscape of forests, streams, and meadows, you can enjoy activities like nature photography, birdwatching, and peaceful walks. The park's size allows you to feel away from civilization despite being relatively close to urban areas.

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Description

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Map & DirectionsWard Pound Ridge Reservation is located in New York near Cross River

Coordinates

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Connectivity

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Site Types

Features

For Campers

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Drive Time

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How do I make camping reservations at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation?

What amenities are available at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation campground?

What are the entrance fees for Ward Pound Ridge Reservation?

What recreational activities can I do while camping at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation?