Tent camping options around Hartsdale, New York range from basic to developed facilities, all within reasonable driving distance. The area sits at approximately 300 feet elevation with an average summer temperature around 80°F, providing comfortable conditions for outdoor recreation. Fall camping is particularly popular when humidity drops and the Hudson Valley foliage creates a colorful backdrop for camping adventures.
What to do
Hiking at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation: Over 40 miles of marked trails accommodate all skill levels. The reservation features varied terrain with creeks and open fields for stargazing. According to one camper, "The camping is very premium but the property and hikes are magical. No car noise or nonsense."
Beach swimming at Lake Welch: Located near Sebago Cabin Camp, this lake offers excellent swimming with a beach-like setting. "Near lake Welch- which is phenomenal for easy nearly- beach like camping," writes one visitor who advises to "ignore the hotplate and just cook on a fire out other outdoor set up."
Kayaking and canoeing at Harriman State Park: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center provides water equipment rentals for lake exploration. A visitor notes, "You can also rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity."
Rock scrambling on challenging trails: The Suffern-Bear Mountain trail includes demanding rock scrambles with scenic payoffs. As one hiker explains, "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."
What campers like
Private tent sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots away from crowds. At Mountain Lakes Park, campers enjoy "a gorgeous piece of land that contains lakes, a lookout and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County." The park features lean-tos scattered throughout the property.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness varies between campgrounds but several maintain high standards. One camper at Battle Row Campground was "amazed at how clean the sites were & quiet the campground was. The camp office workers are SO friendly and helpful... the showers were amazing and also so clean!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple locations offer chances to observe local animals. At The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, "The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio."
Proximity to NYC: Many campsites provide natural settings within a short drive from the city. Sandy Hook's location makes it "a great way to escape the city for a night if you can't make it upstate!" However, note that cars aren't permitted in the campground, so plan to carry your gear to your site.
What you should know
Fire restrictions vary by campground: Some locations have strict rules about fires. At Battle Row, "There are NO fire pits, you must bring your own. Fires are allowed but you must have a fire container or bucket for your fire off of the ground."
Wildlife precautions required: Take measures to protect food from animals. At Croton Point Park, "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 systems differ: Some parks require phone calls or in-person booking. Ward Pound Ridge needs in-person reservations: "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."
Limited facilities at primitive sites: The best tent camping near Hartsdale often means basic amenities. Suffern-Bear Mountain primitive sites require preparation: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Some locations offer play areas for children. At Sandy Hook, "Sandy Hook has all the necessities you need, bathroom, shower, and the occasional food truck. There is even a trail that runs parallel to the beach making it a scenic ride."
Look for level sites: Flat areas make setup easier with kids. Battle Row Campground has tent sites that are "well shaded and spacious," though campers note you should expect to "clean up everything ourselves" as site cleanliness can vary.
Consider cabins for easier camping: Several parks offer cabin options for families not ready for tent camping. At Sebago Cabins, "These cabins 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."
Find campgrounds with ranger programs: Some parks offer family activities. One camper noted that 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."
Tips from RVers
Water and electric hookups: Several campgrounds offer hookups for RVs. Croton Point Park provides water and electric, though one camper notes "The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together."
Limited big rig access: Most campgrounds near Hartsdale have size restrictions. Monitor clearances and road conditions carefully, especially at Ward Pound Ridge where the access roads can be narrow.
Plan for dump stations: Many sites lack on-site dumping facilities. Check ahead for nearest dump stations if staying multiple days.
Expect variable site surfaces: RV pads range from gravel to grass. At Croton Point Park, sites feature "a loosely defined gravel pad that was level. All sites appeared level."
