Camping sites in the Croton-on-Hudson area range from lakeside reservations to wilderness platforms, with elevations varying from river level to over 1,000 feet in nearby hills. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, though several offer year-round access with modified facilities during winter months. Wildlife sightings are common throughout the region's diverse terrain.
What to do
Swimming at local lakes: Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park provides swimming at nearby Lake Welch with lifeguard-supervised areas during summer months. "A stones throw from NYC this beautiful area combines Lake Welch and Harriman State Park. This camp ground is laid back away from the busy activity of the big city. If you want to get away and relax you can come here to walk, swim and camp," notes Brian O.
Hiking accessible trails: Mountain Lakes Park offers multiple trail options directly from camping areas, perfect for day hiking without driving. A camper mentions, "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."
Seasonal events: Sebago Cabin Camp hosts community activities throughout camping season, particularly on weekends. "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," writes Sara P., highlighting the social atmosphere at this destination.
What campers like
Public transportation access: Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground offers camping options accessible via MetroNorth train to Cold Spring with a short taxi ride to the park. "When you are camping with a large group of friends and don't all have access to a car, this is the perfect spot. MetroNorth takes you right into Cold Spring, a charming, quaint town with antique shops and beautiful views of the Hudson," reports Robyn S.
Platform camping: Several sites in the region offer raised tent platforms, which provide drier camping after rainfall. At Beaver Pond, Ethan K. notes, "Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained or if you are expecting rain during your stay. I also particularly enjoyed the communal sink which made it very convenient and easy to wash dishes and fill up water."
Off-season tranquility: Visiting during weekdays or shoulder seasons provides a dramatically different experience. "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. Expect to purchase firewood, although scrounging for kindling was possible," shares Rebecca S. about her September stay at Fahnestock.
What you should know
Military-only facilities: West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area and Lake Frederick are reserved exclusively for active and retired military personnel. "Round Pond is camping reserved for active and retired military personnel only. We drove through and the whole space is rather large. There are several signs everywhere making it clear that it is only for military," explains Ethan K.
Wildlife management: Raccoons and bears are active in many campgrounds around Croton-on-Hudson. One camper at Croton Point Park advises, "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 requirements: Many sites require in-person bookings with no online options. A Ward Pound Ridge visitor notes, "The one downside is that you need to book in person but it can be done well in advance if need be."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Croton Point Park features playground equipment visible from RV sites, allowing parents to supervise children while at camp. "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper," writes Thomas.
Beginner-friendly sites: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers lean-to shelters that eliminate tent setup challenges for novice campers. "The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience. The staff is friendly as well," Jeremy S. explains.
Phone connectivity considerations: Some campgrounds have limited or no cellular service. At Croton Point Park, Jonathan C. advises, "Nice site and a 30-40 minute drive from Western Queens. Tent site is after the RV site, so use their LX before you get to site if you can."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Beaver Pond Campground offers electric, sewer and water hookups despite its rustic setting. A regular visitor explains, "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."
Generator restrictions: Many campgrounds in the region prohibit generator use or restrict operating hours. "This is an off-grid camping experience. You can use your generator at certain hours. Theu have a beach. Their staff is friendly. I love going here," shares Adaly about Beaver Pond.
Site spacing: Croton Point Park has varying site configurations depending on section. "Both the tenting section and RV sites are each very clustered together, and quite crowded, with regular patrols being made day and night," notes one reviewer, while another states, "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites."
