Best Campgrounds near Buchanan, NY
Campgrounds surrounding Buchanan, New York range from established parks to primitive wilderness sites, all within a relatively short distance of New York City. Major camping destinations include Harriman State Park's Beaver Pond Campground with tent and RV sites, and Croton Point Park along the Hudson River offering tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins. The region includes a mix of state park facilities, county-managed recreation areas, and primitive camping options along hiking trails, with most locations situated within a 30-minute drive from Buchanan.
Access and regulations vary significantly across camping areas near Buchanan. Most established campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, though several like Croton Point Park remain open year-round. "A gorgeous camping ground right on the Hudson with beach and trails," noted one visitor about Croton Point Park, highlighting its scenic location. Reservations are strongly recommended for developed campgrounds, particularly during summer weekends and holidays when facilities fill quickly. Primitive camping in areas like the Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail requires hikers to carry all supplies up challenging terrain. Cell service can be intermittent throughout the region, especially in valley areas and more remote camping locations within Harriman State Park.
Several visitors emphasized the contrast between weekday tranquility and weekend crowds at campgrounds in the area. Campers report that sites located away from main roads and further from the city tend to offer more privacy and quieter experiences. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center provides cabin accommodations with lakefront views that receive high ratings. At Beaver Pond, platform tent sites are particularly popular for their elevated sleeping surfaces. According to one regular visitor, "When I plan my trip around the spring, fall, or summer weekends that look sparse, it is quiet, clean, and the others at the sites are nature lovers enjoying the scenery." Most campgrounds feature fire rings, picnic tables, and access to restrooms, with several offering shower facilities and hookups for RVs.
