Best Campgrounds near Brewster, NY

Camping areas near Brewster, New York span across several state parks and reservations within a 30-mile radius. Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground, located in Carmel, offers tent and RV camping with amenities including electric hookups, showers, and reservable sites. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation provides year-round camping options with tent and RV sites in a more secluded setting. The region includes both established campgrounds with facilities and more primitive options, with several parks offering cabin accommodations for those seeking alternatives to traditional tent camping. Most campgrounds in the area maintain seasonal operations, typically running from April through early December.

Many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly during summer weekends when sites fill quickly. Access to most camping areas involves paved roads, though some walk-in sites require short hikes from parking areas. "Weekends - this park is FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!" noted one visitor about Fahnestock State Park. The camping season generally runs from spring through fall, with limited winter options available at select locations like Ward Pound Ridge Reservation. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F during the day and cooler nights, while spring and fall bring more variable conditions and occasional rainfall that can affect trail conditions.

Campers report high satisfaction with the proximity to water features at several campgrounds. Croton Point Park and Beaver Pond Campground at Harriman State Park offer lake access, making them popular destinations for swimming and fishing during summer months. "A gorgeous camping ground right on the Hudson with beach and trails," described one visitor about Croton Point Park. Mixed-use campgrounds throughout the region accommodate various camping styles, from tent-only areas to RV sites with hookups. Wildlife sightings are common, with several reviews mentioning encounters with local fauna. "Welcome to Bear Mountain" is a common greeting at Harriman State Park, where proper food storage is essential. The campground options near Brewster balance accessibility to New York City (typically within a 1-2 hour drive) with natural settings that provide a retreat from urban environments.

Best Camping Sites Near Brewster, New York (101)

    1. Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground

    34 Reviews
    Fishkill, NY
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 225-7207

    $17 / night

    "This park has a nice open beach on Canopus Lake with a concession area and bathhouse, which we found to be quite clean! They even have boat rentals - or you can bring your own boat to launch!"

    "When you are camping with a large group of friends and don't all have access to a car, this is the perfect spot."

    2. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation

    9 Reviews
    Cross River, NY
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (914) 864-7317

    $45 - $55 / night

    "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."

    "The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience. The staff is friendly as well"

    3. Mountain Lakes Park

    3 Reviews
    North Salem, NY
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (914) 864-7312

    "Mountain Lakes park is a great place to camp within driving distance from NYC. A fun option available at Mountain lakes is to rent a yurt to camp in."

    "A gorgeous piece of land that 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."

    4. Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park

    41 Reviews
    Pomona, NY
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 947-2792

    $17 - $20 / night

    "15 dolares la noche para los que viven en el Estado de New York o New York city .. si es fuera del estado son $5 dolares mas!!"

    "Drive-in tent campgrounds. Adequate restroom facilities sprinkled amongst tent sites. Some campsites have raised platforms. All sites have picnic tables and fire ring with flip-top grill."

    5. Camp W Herrlich

    1 Review
    Holmes, NY
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 319-3084

    6. Kettletown State Park Campground

    13 Reviews
    Stevenson, CT
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (203) 264-5678

    $17 - $50 / night

    "We love this State Park because it's close to our home for a quick getaway.  This time we tried one of the sites on the water, and I probably wouldn't choose the same site again. "

    "Semi private with great view and nice walks to the water. Noise was not a problem overnight as to having problems with noises neighbors at other CT state parks."

    7. Croton Point Park

    10 Reviews
    Croton-on-Hudson, NY
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (914) 862-5290

    $30 - $60 / night

    "Tent sites are very private with some dirt roads to exit out but thats what make it unique experience! Bathrooms with shower is near by and has plenty porta potties all around."

    "Was close to bear mountains state part and the train station is right there!"

    8. West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area

    6 Reviews
    Highland Falls, NY
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 774-9524

    $25 - $40 / night

    "Love the proximity to NYC - I always look for areas that are not too far, but not too close to NY. Beautiful but small-ish tent sites."

    "We are looking forward to stopping by Round Pond again in the near future."

    9. Jellystone Park Gardiner

    32 Reviews
    Gardiner, NY
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 255-5193

    "With a new check in area, Gardiner has really stepped up. They expanded the pool area to include another pool plus splash area and water slides."

    "We got a red carpet site by the Gaga pit and near the water park (Cindy bear lane) and it was a convenient yet noisy site. Kids were at the playground 8 am or before and the noise woke us up."

    10. Sylvan Lake Beach Park

    1 Review
    Stormville, NY
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 221-9889

    "Reminds me of lake camping that I grew up with. Hosts are very nice and helpful. This is more of a seasonal camping site. Do not follow your GPS directions. Get directions from the campground staff."

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Recent Reviews near Brewster, NY

445 Reviews of 101 Brewster Campgrounds


  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Gunx Camping on a Horse Farm

    No Amenities but Great Location for the Gunks

    This campground is just mowed spots on a hillside in Kerhonkson. There are no facilities aside from some port-o-sans that the owners didn't recommend using. But the location is great for accessing the Shawamhunks. Given the lack of affordable RV campgrounds (and even the few expensive ones) in the area, this stands out.

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 24, 2025

    Austin Hawes Memorial Campground — American Legion State Forest

    Great State Forest Campground

    Austin Hawes (also known as American Legion State Forest/Campground) is a great little place in a beautiful part of the State. They have cabins if you want some of the creature comforts, as well as sites suitable for tents or campers. Have camped here before in tents and a pop up, it's right on the Farmington River, so we have gone tubing down the river, swimming and fishing as well. The bathrooms have showers and flush toilets, there are hiking trails in and near the campground, and stores not too far. Sites vary in size and privacy.

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Black Rock State Park Campground

    Nah

    If you want to feel like you are camping in the middle of a lawless low income housing project, this is the place for you. We camped next to a woman with 2 pit bulls, which was surprising, given the "no dogs allowed" rule, and were surrounded by people partying despite the "no alcohol" rule. Teens congregate in the bathroom so they could charge their devices but did not appreciate you being there to use the bathroom they clearly took over, and even though it's 2025, I still prefer no boyfriends hanging out in the women's bathroom. Call me whatever. Used to camp here years ago, clearly it has gone downhill. Park Ranger? What's that?

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Ten Mile River Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    Not a public campground!

    Ten Mile River Shelter and campsite is not a public campground. Sure, anyone can camp there, but it is designated for folks hiking the A.T., whether thru-hikers, section hikers, or whatever. While there are no rules about who can camp there, during thru-hiking season, consideration should be made for folks who rely on places like this during a long distance hike. It is at least a mile if not a mile and a half from approved parking (on the side of the road off the A.T.) to camp, either from the A.T. or a combo of the A.T. and a blue blaze trail (which is easier, imo). There are also no fires allowed on the CT A.T.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Osa Trail

    Gorgeous Views

    Had a great time here with my wife and 2 little kids and our dog.  One of the most beautiful sunrises we've ever seen!  Very secluded, though Alex is right down the driveway so didn't feel like the middle of nowhere.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Sage's Revine

    Not highest recommended

    There was a bunch of signs that said no parking so we parked at the entrance to the trailhead. The area itself is beautiful but I believe it is more for tent camping versus cars, overlanding vehicles and RVs.

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Mills Norrie State Park Campground

    Great staff but back-to-back campsite

    We stayed a coupe of days in Oct. This is a beautiful site to camp out. The staffs are friendly and very attentive.
    Bathroom and water pressure was ok. But one shower location for 50 campsites. Three small showers units and three toilet.
    I never stayed a state campsite where the sites are so close each other. If you like a “normal” distance to your neighbors, I'd not recommend this place.

  • Chelsea B.
    Oct. 10, 2025

    New York City North-Newburgh KOA

    Good amenities and fun experience!

    Campsites Great campsites, wooded and cozy, though a little tight for longer rigs as our neighbors found out when they ran over a wooden post backing in. But spaced apart nicely with lots of vegetation between. Nice and level. Amenities Bathrooms are older and need of some repair but let me tell you I was very happy to see a normal shower head with real hot water! So no complaints here. Laundry facilities were clean and open 24/7 with reasonable prices 2.50/2.00 washer/dryer. And the dryers actually worked. Small dog park, communal spaces, and a camp store all made the place feel like a little village. They even have a wine store- cab sav was good. WiFi I work remotely and WiFi is always an issue. We have Starlink but in a wooded campsite, connecting is an issue but luckily their WiFi was great. Had no issues and could stream just fine. Halloween! We visited mid October and folks had sites decorated and the KOA has trick or treating and other activities every weekend in Oct. we were SO bummed to be leaving on a Friday and miss the festivities because it looked really fun. Would definitely go back. Also, staff was super nice.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    Convenient pit stop

    This spot is easy to find and access, and had decent ATT service. There's only a few spots, and the road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs.


Guide to Brewster

Camping spots near Brewster, New York range across different terrains with elevations from 200-500 feet above sea level throughout Westchester, Putnam, and Dutchess counties. The region receives approximately 45-50 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forested environments but occasional muddy conditions on trails after storms. Most tent sites are uneven, requiring campers to scout for the flattest spots.

What to do

Hiking trails access: At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, campers have immediate access to over 40 miles of hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. "There are 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," notes one visitor.

Fishing opportunities: Beaver Pond Campground provides access to Welch Lake for fishing enthusiasts. The lake allows fishing from shore or small watercraft. A camper reports, "A stones throw from NYC this beautiful area combines Lake Welch and Harriman State Park. This camp ground is laid back away from the busy activity of the big city. If you want to get away and relax you can come here to walk, swim and camp."

Winter recreation: Unlike many seasonal facilities, some campgrounds maintain year-round operations. Mountain Lakes Park offers winter camping options in their yurts during colder months when temperatures average 20-35°F. "Mountain Lakes park is a great place to camp within driving distance from NYC. A fun option available at Mountain lakes is to rent a yurt to camp in," shares one visitor.

What campers like

Platform camping: Beaver Pond Campground features raised tent platforms at many sites, providing significant advantages during wet weather. "The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. You definitely feel like you have your own space and are not camping on top of your neighbor. Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained," observes a camper.

Privacy between sites: Campers consistently note the spaciousness at certain campgrounds. "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," remarks a visitor to Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.

Clean facilities: Mountain Lakes Park maintains their grounds meticulously. "A gorgeous piece of land that 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," notes a camper about the well-maintained landscape.

What you should know

Reservation methods vary: Different campgrounds have different booking systems. Ward Pound Ridge requires in-person reservations, which can be inconvenient. "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," advises a camper.

Wildlife awareness: Bears are active in several camping areas, particularly at Harriman State Park. "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," recounts a visitor.

Variable site quality: At most campgrounds, site quality varies significantly within the same facility. "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site," notes a camper about Clarence Fahnestock State Park.

Tips for camping with families

Playground proximity: Croton Point Park offers camping with playgrounds visible from some sites. "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper," mentions a family who enjoyed the convenience.

Kid-friendly activities: Jellystone Park Gardiner specializes in family entertainment with scheduled activities. "Nice pool that is shallow so you can relax and let the little ones go in the water park section alone or they have a 3 ft pool also. My older kids preferred a deeper pool but they still had a great time there they have lasertag which they enjoy. And a bounce pillow," reports a parent.

Nature education: Several campgrounds offer educational opportunities for children. "The Trailside Nature Museum is also fun for the kids," notes a visitor to Ward Pound Ridge, where families can learn about local ecology and wildlife.

Tips from RVers

Limited hookup options: Most campgrounds near Brewster offer only partial hookups. "No site offers electric or water hook up, camp amenities include: a moderately stocked store, public bath houses, a laundry facility, playground for the kids and camp-sinks with access to water," reports an RVer at Beaver Pond Campground.

Public transport accessibility: Unique to this region, some campgrounds are accessible via public transportation from NYC. "When you are camping with a large group of friends and don't all have access to a car, this is the perfect spot. MetroNorth takes you right into Cold Spring, a charming, quaint town with antique shops and beautiful views of the Hudson. From there, it is a short drive to the campgrounds," shares a camper about Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground.

Dish washing facilities: Several campgrounds provide dedicated stations for washing dishes, which is particularly valuable for RVers conserving water. "I also particularly enjoyed the communal sink which made it very convenient and easy to wash dishes and fill up water," notes a visitor to Beaver Pond Campground.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds in Brewster?

The Brewster area offers several excellent camping options. Croton Point Park stands out with its breathtaking location right on the Hudson River, offering private tent sites and family-friendly facilities. For a more secluded experience, Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground provides a peaceful setting with access to Canopus Lake for swimming, fishing, and boating. Both offer a great balance of natural beauty and camping comfort within reasonable proximity to Brewster.

Are there RV parks in Brewster that accommodate large vehicles?

Totoket Valley RV Park is an excellent option for RV campers near Brewster, offering full hookups with electrical, clean water, and sewer connections. Each site features grass areas and picnic tables, with a friendly owner maintaining the facilities. For those willing to travel a bit further, Jellystone Park Gardiner is big-rig friendly and offers reservable sites with water and toilet facilities. Both parks provide comfortable accommodations for larger recreational vehicles while serving as great home bases for exploring the Brewster area.

What amenities are available at Brewster camping facilities?

Camping facilities near Brewster typically offer essential amenities to enhance your outdoor experience. Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park provides picnic tables, fire rings with grills, and restroom facilities throughout the campground. Some sites even feature raised platforms. At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, you'll find spaces suitable for group gatherings and access to numerous hiking trails. Most campgrounds in the area offer water access, toilet facilities, and designated camping areas, though amenities can vary by season.