Camping near Chappaqua, New York offers access to several parks within the Hudson Highlands region, where elevations range from 400-1200 feet throughout Westchester County. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from April through October, with a limited number of facilities remaining open year-round. Winter camping options are restricted by New York State Parks' maintenance schedules and weather conditions.
What to do
Hiking on Appalachian Trail sections: At Clarence Fahnestock State Park, connect to multiple trail systems of varying difficulty. "There are walking paths outside of the campground that are located within the park... There are also hiking trails, a fishing area and a swimming hole," notes reviewer Elaine C.
Beach swimming with lifeguards: Beaver Pond Campground provides lake access during summer months. According to reviewer Kelvin, "Hike trails are all over the place and the lake is nearby. Definitely coming back again and making this place a regular visit for my family and friends."
Fishing in multiple lakes: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation maintains several stocked fishing areas accessible to campers. A visitor mentioned, "This is a great place for camping. The shelters are great for people who want to camp and not have to worry about unplanned weather. The best part of this campsite are the endless trails in the area."
Winter camping options: For year-round access, consider sites at Croton Point Park where reviewer Wendy C. states, "We came in October to celebrate Halloween in sleepy hollow! This is a great campsite and reasonably priced. Was close to bear mountains state part and the train station is right there!"
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Many visitors appreciate the elevated camping areas at Harriman State Park. Reviewer Hashim C. explains, "Sebago cabins the way to get away and relax enjoy the lake 🎏 you can go hiking they also have movie nights they do big bon 🔥 on Saturday very kid friendly."
Privacy between sites: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers more secluded camping options. "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," reports Susana M.
Community activities: Several parks organize scheduled events for campers. Sara P. from Sebago Cabins notes, "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too."
Four-season accessibility: Camping near Chappaqua is available throughout the year at select locations. "This is state park, very large nested on Peninsula on the Hudson River," explains Ioan P. about Croton Point Park, which maintains year-round operation.
What you should know
Bear activity precautions: Wildlife encounters require proper food storage. At Croton Point Park, reviewer Anil S. warns, "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night."
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Weekends - this park is FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!" advises Shelly B. about Clarence Fahnestock State Park.
Site variation: Each campground offers different amenities and layouts. "I have camped Beaver Pond for the last 45 years and have found something new and better each every year I've gone to the campgrounds. I have gone from tent platform, tent camping, tarp, and now hammock camping," shares Elliot G.
Seasonal facility limitations: Many campgrounds reduce services during off-peak months. "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful," notes Courtney D. about Clarence Fahnestock.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Families appreciate dedicated kid-friendly areas. At Croton Point Park, Thomas mentions, "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper."
Shelters for weather protection: Jellystone Park Gardiner offers structure options beyond tent camping. "This campground has a lot of activities and has kids of all ages galore. I was worried my 12 year old would be too old for it but he enjoyed making friends there," says Stephanie H.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies widely between locations. Sara P. reports about Sebago Cabins, "Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING. There's a few very cute small towns nearby with surprisingly modern restaurants and friendly people."
Train access for day trips: Several campgrounds offer proximity to rail lines. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," Megan B. notes about Beaver Pond.
Tips from RVers
Site sizes and access: Most RV-friendly campgrounds have specific loop sections. Rebecca S. from Beaver Pond Campground shares, "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."
Hook-up availability: Electrical and water options vary by location. "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," explains Ethan K.
Urban RV option: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides the closest access to New York City for those with campers. "Basicly a parking lot, but the location can't be beat. 2 ferries that run to Manhattan. Path train is a 12 minute walk away that will take you to manhatten," advises Karen S.
Seasonal openings: Most pet friendly camping near Chappaqua, New York operates on limited schedules. "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," notes Rebecca S. about fall camping options.
