Situated in Westchester County, New York, camping options near Eastchester provide access to the Hudson River Valley while remaining within commuting distance to New York City. The region sits at approximately 180 feet above sea level, featuring a mix of wooded highlands and river valleys. Weather tends to be humid in summer with temperatures averaging 75-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons offer more comfortable conditions with daytime temperatures in the 60-70°F range.
What to do
Hiking trails nearby: Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground offers extensive hiking options directly from campsites. "The sites come with a picnic table (it was in OK shape) and a fire ring with removable grate, as well as a standing-level charcoal BBQ grill. This site and several others on the opposite (west) side of Pelton Pond had easy access to the 1.5 mile Pelton Pond hike loop," notes one visitor to Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground.
Swimming opportunities: Several campgrounds provide swimming areas during summer months. "We walked 20 min from our site to the beach across the 2-lane highway. The lake is clear and sandy (some rocks in sand on shore, but standard for imported sand), and many families seemed to have traveled up for a day trip," reports a camper at Clarence Fahnestock State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Keep your eyes open for local wildlife while camping. At Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park, one visitor shares: "A quick 40 minutes north of NYC, Harriman State Park has an eclectic little campground called Beaver Pond. 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."
What campers like
Proximity to NYC: Many campgrounds provide quick access to Manhattan while still offering natural settings. A visitor to Liberty Harbor RV Park explains: "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. 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. Two blocks away from NJ Path train into Manhattan or take the ferry to Wall Street!"
Spacious sites: Several campgrounds offer well-separated sites that provide privacy. "The sites were nicely wooded, very well spaced, fairly level with 50A service and water hookup," reports a visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. Another camper adds: "Our site is easily the nicest- all the way in the back with only one neighbor. It is so quiet here."
Lake access: Water activities are popular at several campgrounds. At Croton Point Park, a camper reports: "This must be one of the most breathtaking camp grounds right on the Hudson. Tent sites are very private with some dirt roads to exit out but thats what make it unique experience! Short 5 minute drive to nearby supermarket to pick up food or firewood."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. One Beaver Pond camper advises: "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 precautions: Bears and other wildlife are present throughout the region. At Beaver Pond Campground, a ranger reportedly greets visitors with "Welcome to Bear Mountain" and provides information about bear activity in the area. Another camper mentions: "The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping."
Variable site quality: Sites vary significantly even within the same campground. "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site. This place can book up during camping season in the Northeast so make sure to book early in advance," advises a visitor to Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer more family-oriented features. At Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort, a visitor notes: "Lots of seasonals and lots of cabins, many RV sites I think all with full hookups. There were some organized activities which was nice. Playground, hayride, animals to feed (goats, chickens, donkey and pony)."
Consider noise levels: Family-friendly campgrounds vary in noise levels. "When you are camping with a large group of friends and don't all have access to a car, this is the perfect spot. Some of the sites are side by side other campers, which is an interesting way to meet new people and expand your circles. Other sites are more isolated and provide a greater amount of privacy," explains a visitor to Clarence Fahnestock.
Plan for beach access: Many families appreciate campgrounds with swimming options. "The 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!" reports a Clarence Fahnestock visitor.
Tips from RVers
RV size limitations: Consider your motorhome size when selecting rv sites near Eastchester, New York. "Have stayed here several times - great location and nice, full hook-up sites. Back-in and pull through sites and can accommodate large rigs," reports a visitor to Black Bear RV Park.
Water hookups: Water connections vary by campground and site. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, a camper notes: "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection."
Transit options: Several campgrounds near Eastchester offer public transit access to NYC. "Close to train to N.Y. City," mentions one RVer about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. At Liberty Harbor, another camper explains: "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8 blocks. Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll."
