Tent campsites near Congers, New York range from primitive trail sites to more developed facilities with varying amenities. This area of the Hudson Valley features rocky terrain with elevations between 400-1,300 feet, creating diverse camping microclimates. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F during day and drop to 60-65°F at night, with higher humidity levels near water features.
What to do
Disc golf course access: Campgaw Mountain Reservation offers primitive camping sites with easy access to their disc golf course, providing campers with an alternative outdoor activity. As Jake R. notes, "There was also plenty to do during the day, like joining the hikers on those trails, disc golf, and sitting by the water."
Swimming in designated areas: Croton Point Park has swimming options with safety measures in place. According to Isabel L., the park offers "a place to swim but only within buoys and when a life guard is present," making it suitable for families with various swimming abilities.
Mountain scrambling: For more adventurous campers, Suffern-Bear Mountain from Gate Hill Road Primitive offers challenging terrain. Ethan K. describes, "At one point of the trail is a very difficult, but doable, rock scramble up the side of the mountain. At the top of the scramble is a primitive camping site with amazing views."
Halloween festivities: Seasonal camping near Congers can include holiday-themed activities. Wendy C. shares her experience at Croton Point Park: "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
Multiple water features: Mountain Lakes Park lives up to its name with several lakes for recreation. Ben H. describes it as "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."
Year-round accessibility: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation remains open throughout all seasons. Paul R. shares, "Ive been coming here for years. They have great sights and are open all year round. Ive stayed in hammocks, tents, leantos, and even did a good share of car camping."
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the separation between tent areas at Ward Pound Ridge. Susana M. notes that "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."
Streamside camping: Primitive camping options along trails provide unique access to water. At Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #2, Ethan K. found that "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'."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Each camping area has different booking requirements. For Ward Pound Ridge, Will L. mentions, "They have a lovely staff," but other reviewers note reservations must be made in person.
Camp rules and enforcement: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center has specific restrictions. Thomas M. reports, "Campfires are restricted to certain areas and you have to share. They do have bear boxes available as this is bear country."
Wildlife considerations: Wildlife encounters require proper precautions at tent sites near Congers. At Croton Point Park, 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."
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby infrastructure. According to Andrew A., at Croton Point Park "Only down side is there is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Sebago Cabin Camp offers activities specifically designed for younger campers. Hashim C. shares, "They also have movie nights they do big bon 🔥 on Saturday very kid friendly ranger Joe is 👌 with the kids."
Playground access: Multiple camping areas provide playground facilities for children. Thomas mentions Croton Point Park has "a decent playground for young kids," making it suitable for families with smaller children.
First-time camping success: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation works well for camping novices. Kevin G. reports, "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."
Transportation assistance: Some campgrounds recognize the challenges of gear transport for families. At The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, Thomas M. notes, "The parking for your car is 1/4 mile away but they allow you to unload and give you a wagon to take stuff to your site."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Mountain Lakes Park offers alternative accommodations for those without RVs. Ethan K. mentions, "A fun option available at Mountain lakes is to rent a yurt to camp in," which provides a more comfortable option for campers without specialized equipment.
Length restrictions: Most camping areas near Congers have limited space for larger vehicles. At Sebago Cabins, Sara P. notes the accommodations are "VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge. You still feel like you are 'roughing it' but with the convenience of a fridge."
Connectivity considerations: Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds. Sara P. reports, "Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING," at Sebago Cabins, which can be a positive or negative depending on camper preferences.
Alternative accommodations: For those who normally travel by RV but want to stay in this area, Katharine T. suggests Sebago Cabins: "The cabins are 'rustic' - but there's what you need: cots, electricity, a fridge. Ignore the hotplate and just cook on a fire out other outdoor set up."
