Campgrounds near Mamaroneck, New York typically experience temperatures ranging from 25°F in winter to 85°F in summer, with most sites closing from November through April due to seasonal weather patterns. The region sits at elevations between 0-1,000 feet, creating varied camping environments from coastal settings to rolling woodland terrain. Rainfall averages 3-4 inches monthly during camping season, with thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Swimming access: seasonal limitations: At Beaver Pond Campground, Lake Welch offers a secured beach with lifeguards plus shower and bathroom facilities. One visitor noted, "The grounds are just steps away from Welch Lake, offering a lifeguard monitored sandy beach which is open during the summer season for swimming, fishing, and small boat craft further out."
Urban exploration from campgrounds: From Liberty Harbor RV Park, access NYC via multiple transit options. A camper reported, "There is a ferry 100-yards away that takes you to Wall Street M-F. There is a great market about 1/4 of a mile away, and the path that can take you to WTC or 33rd Street area is only a mile away."
Trail systems for day hiking: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation provides extensive hiking networks with over 40 miles of trails. According to a reviewer, "The best part of this campsite are the endless trails in the area. 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."
What campers like
Secluded camping options: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers shelter sites that provide privacy while remaining accessible. A camper shared, "The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience. The staff is friendly as well."
Beach camping experiences: At Nickerson Beach Park Campground, visitors enjoy direct beach access. One reviewer explained, "There are not many places to camp on long island that are actually on the Atlantic ocean side. This is basically a parking lot but right on the other side of the dunes is Lido Beach. Which is fantastic for surfing."
Urban proximity with natural settings: Beaver Pond Campground offers a woodsy setting just an hour from NYC. A camper noted, "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint. Free Hot showers in the bathrooms, with plenty of room to change."
What you should know
Seasonal crowding patterns: Beaver Pond Campground experiences significant differences between weekday and weekend use. One camper advised, "We stayed here on a Thursday night in September prior to taking off backpacking. The campground was clean and quiet. Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great."
Wildlife considerations: Multiple campgrounds report active wildlife, requiring proper food storage. At Croton Point Park, a visitor warned, "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night."
Noise levels vary by location: Some campgrounds have unexpected noise sources. At Croton Point Park, a camper reported, "There is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night." Liberty Harbor notes "city noises" as expected given the urban location.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Blydenburgh County Park, a camper mentioned, "It's a good park if you have little ones. Dogs are welcome. There's a large dog run so the fur babies will have a great time too."
Beach facilities for kids: Beaches with lifeguards make family swimming safer. Beaver Pond Campground provides monitored swimming areas during summer. A visitor observed, "The beach is secured with lifeguards and shower and bathroom facilities are available."
Off-season family options: For families seeking less crowded experiences, consider shoulder seasons. A camper at Clarence Fahnestock noted, "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful."
Tips from RVers
Urban RV considerations: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides city access but with limitations. A camper explained, "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. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig."
RV size restrictions: Not all campgrounds accommodate large rigs. Beaver Pond Campground notes varying site options, with a camper reporting, "The campground offers several different sites, from platform tent spaces to those for 25' trailers. All sites have a standard picnic table and fire ring."
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer partial hookups only. At Blydenburgh County Park, a visitor explained, "Great park with a nice 7 mile loop around the lake with decent fishing. Lots of horses and dogs on the trail. 30 or so sites around a central public restroom."
