RV camping near Ardsley, New York offers convenient options within a 45-minute to 1-hour drive radius. Located in southern Westchester County at 187 feet above sea level, Ardsley sits at the edge of the Hudson River Valley with temperature ranges from 26°F in winter to 84°F in summer. Fall camping season typically runs from September to mid-November with humidity levels dropping below summer's 65-70% average.
What to do
Hiking trails near Harriman State Park: Beaver Pond Campground provides access to numerous trail systems including the Appalachian Trail. "Offering the peaceful tranquility of sitting under the changing oak, sumacs, maples, and poplars, I wouldn't recommend this site for the quiet hearted. There is a constant buzz in the air of conversation, music, laughter and shrieking toddlers," notes one reviewer about the vibrant atmosphere.
Swimming at Croton Point Park: The beach area offers summer swimming with lifeguard supervision. "This must be one of the most breathtaking camp grounds (family friendly) right on the Hudson. Tent sites are very private with some dirt roads to exit out but thats what make it unique experience! Short 5 minute drive to nearby supermarket to pick up food or firewood," according to a camper who visited in 2020.
NYC day trips from Liberty Harbor: Located in Jersey City, this RV park provides easy transit access to Manhattan. "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. Minutes walk to the Statue of Liberty, liberty Science center. Two blocks away from NJ Path train into Manhattan or take the ferry to Wall Street!"
What campers like
Cell reception and connectivity: Unlike many rural campgrounds, Liberty Harbor RV Park offers reliable cellular service due to its urban location. "This is a pricey park, but options are limited. As in almost non existent. This is a prime location for visiting the city or heading down the shore. The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8," reports one visitor who appreciated the park's convenience despite the premium price point.
Platform tent sites at Beaver Pond: The raised wooden platforms protect tents from ground moisture. "We stayed here on a Thursday night in September prior to taking off backpacking. The campground was clean and quiet. RV hook-ups, tent platforms, and rustic tent sites were available. Our rustic tent site had a few good options for pitching a tent, as well as picnic table and fire ring," explains a camper who visited during off-season.
Private sites at Clarence Fahnestock State Park: The campground layout provides good separation between sites. "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site. This place can book up during camping season in the Northeast so make sure to book early in advance. There is great hiking and a lake you can get to and swim in right from the campsite."
What you should know
Bear activity requires proper food storage: Several campgrounds in the region have active wildlife. "Welcome to Bear Mountain grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He is in his ranger hut, checking in the late evening arrivals to the campground. He offers us a highlighted map to our site, wishes us a good stay, and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area," reports a camper at Beaver Pond Campground.
Train noise at Croton Point Park: The nearby train depot creates consistent background noise. "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper. Site does not have Wi-Fi and street address didn't work correctly with multiple GPS apps. After hours guy was grouchy. But the site is beautiful with plenty to do in the area, especially outdoors."
Limited winter camping options: Most area campgrounds close between November and April. "We are returning to the south after spending a couple months of fall in New England. This was our first stop and primarily chosen because it was one of the few places along our route that was open for RVs in the off season," noted a camper at Black Bear RV Park, one of the few year-round facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation: This county park offers both camping and day-use recreation areas. "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks. The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station."
Animal interactions at Pleasant Acres Farm: This campground offers unique opportunities for children. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool. Weekend was busy as usual but during the week it seems to be seasonal that stay. A bit out here in the middle of nowhere, 15-20 minutes from any town. Make sure you have what you need!"
Off-season beach access at Fahnestock: "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful. Great hikes," notes one camper who enjoyed the more private experience after the summer crowds departed.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Croton Point Park: The pull-through configurations vary considerably. "We had a loosely defined gravel pad that was level. All sites appeared level. The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together. No one was in the tent sites, but they did have new picnic tables."
Tunnel toll avoidance approaching Liberty Harbor: "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze," advises one RVer who discovered the expensive toll route the hard way when their navigation app led them through the Hudson tunnels.
Water connections at Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort: "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection. Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point. Nice and easy little campground."
