Tent camping near Ardsley, New York offers options within a 40-mile radius through varying terrain and ecosystems. Many campsites in this region remain open year-round, though services may be limited during winter months when temperatures can drop below freezing. Westchester County campgrounds typically range from 30-100 feet above sea level, creating accessible camping conditions for various skill levels.
What to do
Lake activities and swimming: At Croton Point Park, campers can access beach areas with seasonal lifeguards. "This must be one of the most breathtaking camp grounds (family friendly) right on the Hudson. Short 5 minute drive to nearby supermarket to pick up food or firewood," notes one visitor. The park includes a model airplane field and playground facilities.
Hiking trails for all levels: Mountain Lakes Park contains "lakes, a lookout and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County. A dirt road loops through the property with trails off and through it." Multiple interconnected paths allow for customized route planning based on difficulty preference.
Winter recreation: Several parks in the region maintain winter operations. Campgaw Mountain Reservation trails connect with seasonal ski areas. One visitor to the Sleepy Hollow area mentioned, "We came in October to celebrate Halloween in sleepy hollow! This is a great campsite and reasonably priced. Was close to bear mountains state park and the train station is right there!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation provides more secluded camping spaces. A visitor reports, "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."
Accessible primitive camping: For backcountry experiences without long drives, Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #2 offers sites within a moderate hike. "This is a nice spot to set up camp because it is right next to a flowing stream with fresh water. The site is marked by a sign on a tree that says 'The Island'," reports one hiker.
Year-round availability: Many locations maintain winter operations. A Ward Pound Ridge visitor stated, "They have great sights and are open all year round. I've stayed in hammocks, tents, lean-tos, and even did a good share of car camping." The extended seasons allow for experiencing the region's distinct seasonal changes.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Many campgrounds require in-person booking. For 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." Call ahead for availability at all sites, particularly during summer and fall weekends.
Noise considerations: Proximity to urban areas affects sound levels. At Croton Point, one camper noted, "Nice site and a 30-40 minute drive from Western Queens. The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm." Train noise can be prominent at some locations.
Wildlife awareness: Sebago Cabin Camp and surrounding areas require food storage precautions. "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless raccoons at night," warns a visitor. Some sites provide bear boxes or metal storage units.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly facilities: First-time campers report positive experiences at several locations. One visitor to Croton Point Park commented, "I took my 5 year-old-son and wife, all of us first time campers. This place was great. The site was very nice, all the people friendly and area beautiful."
Educational opportunities: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center offers naturalist programs. "The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio," notes one camper. The center provides opportunities for wildlife observation and learning.
Weather considerations: Spring camping often brings variable conditions. Pack additional layers and rain gear even during warmer months. At Battle Row Campground, sites are "well shaded and spacious," providing natural cooling during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Full-hookup sites remain limited in the immediate Ardsley area. At Croton Point Park, "They have cabins and RV sites and now that the Tapan Zee bridge work is done most of them are now open again as the bridge workers have moved out." Advance reservations are essential during peak season.
Site surface conditions: RV pads vary significantly across the region. One Croton Point visitor noted, "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."
Regulations and restrictions: Size limitations apply at most nearby campgrounds. "This includes all manner of restrictions on how you can camp, where you can camp, what equipment can be used, and use in relation to what particular site you may have been lucky enough to reserve," reports one RVer about policies at Croton Point.
