Camping options near Elmsford, New York range from primitive tent sites to cabins with varying accessibility levels. The area sits at elevations between 200-400 feet above sea level with average summer temperatures of 75-85°F, making May through September the prime camping season. Winter camping is available at several year-round facilities, though temperatures typically drop to 20-30°F from December through February.
What to do
Hiking trails with elevation: At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, campers can access over 40 miles of trails with various difficulty levels. "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," notes one visitor.
Swimming in clean lakes: Enjoy swimming at Clarence Fahnestock State Park, which features a sandy beach area on Canopus Lake. "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful," reports one camper. The beach has lifeguards on duty during summer months.
Rock scrambling adventures: For more adventurous campers, the Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail offers challenging terrain. "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," explains one hiker who tackled the 15-mile route.
What campers like
Wide-spaced campsites: Campers appreciate the privacy at Beaver Pond Campground, where sites aren't crowded together. "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," writes one reviewer who also mentioned enjoying the raised platforms at many sites.
Off-season weekday solitude: Many campers prefer visiting during less crowded times. "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 a September visitor to Clarence Fahnestock State Park, adding that facilities were clean and well-maintained.
Early morning wildlife viewing: Dawn offers opportunities to spot local wildlife. "Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," reports one visitor to Beaver Pond Campground, just 30 minutes from Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown.
What you should know
Campsite reservation challenges: Several campsites near Elmsford require in-person booking. At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, "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."
Train noise concerns: Campsites at Croton Point Park experience railroad noise. "Only down side is there is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night," mentions one camper. Another noted the tent site was "very loud (dance music) until after 11pm" despite the 10pm quiet hours.
Primitive conditions: For backcountry camping at Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail, pack accordingly. "The most difficult part about camping in this location is that you will have to carry your supplies up the mountain to the site. I would advise packing light if planning on camping here. The campsite is about 2.5 miles from the trailhead."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Mountain Lakes Park offers family-friendly amenities. "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," writes one visitor. The park's lakes provide recreational opportunities for children.
Short hikes for kids: Beaver Pond Campground offers easy access to family activities. "Short distance from NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," notes a parent who brought children to the campsite.
Bear safety awareness: Teach children about wildlife safety, especially at Beaver Pond Campground where bear encounters are possible. "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... and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area."
Tips for RVers
RV site selection: At Liberty Harbor RV Park, location matters. "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig," advises one experienced RVer. The park offers water and electric hookups.
Transportation options: Many RVers appreciate easy access to public transportation. "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC... minutes walk to the Statue of Liberty, Liberty Science center. Two blocks away from NJ Path train into Manhattan or take the ferry to Wall Street!"
Road access challenges: RVers should be aware of route restrictions. "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze," suggests one Liberty Harbor RV Park visitor who navigated the area with a 32-foot RV towing a Jeep.
