Primitive tent camping options within 30 miles of Hastings-on-Hudson, New York range from accessible lake-based sites to challenging backcountry locations across varied elevations. The region sits at the intersection of the Hudson Highlands and Westchester County, with camping areas spanning from sea level to 1,300 feet. Summer temperatures typically range 75-85°F during day and 55-65°F at night, with higher humidity near water sites.
What to do
Shoreline fishing: At Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area, campers can fish along the shoreline with ocean access. "Ocean is close with lifeguards. Good fishing and pleasant people. Boat from New York City," notes one visitor. The site offers reasonable tent rates with private spaces and fire pits.
Winter recreation: Tent camping near Hastings-on-Hudson extends into winter months at several locations. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation remains open year-round and locals know it as "a great place for sled-riding in winter (Pell Hill area)." The campground's all-season access makes it a solid choice for cold-weather outdoor activities.
Paddle sports: Mountain Lakes Park provides multiple lakes for water recreation directly from campsites. A camper describes it as "a gorgeous piece of land that contains lakes, a lookout and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County." Tent campers can explore several bodies of water with various recreational options.
What campers like
Primitive river camping: Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #2 offers streamside tent sites about 4 miles into an 11-mile loop trail. "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'," explains one hiker. The spread-out area accommodates multiple tents with a functional fire pit.
Trail connectivity: Tent campers appreciate direct trail access from many camping areas. The Suffern-Bear Mountain trail provides challenging hiking with rewarding views. "At the top of the scramble is a primitive camping site with amazing views," reports one camper, though they caution to "pack light if planning on camping here" due to the difficult terrain.
Secluded lean-tos: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation features shelter camping options with greater privacy than many established campgrounds. "The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience," writes one visitor. Another notes they "stayed three nights and had an amazing time, super cozy by the fire in our shelter and our site was minutes from some amazing trails."
What you should know
Reservation processes: Many campgrounds near Hastings-on-Hudson have specific reservation systems that differ from standard online booking. At Ward Pound Ridge, "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."
Varied amenities: Tent camping facilities range widely across the region. Campgaw Mountain Reservation offers basic amenities with some drawbacks. "The sites themselves are fairly close to the road and there are super popular hiking trails that run right through all the camps. If you like being woken up by folks walking their dog at 7 AM, this is the spot for you," writes one camper.
Seasonal management: Several campgrounds implement seasonal restrictions. Ward Pound Ridge allows "bow-hunting of deer to control its population during the months of October to December," which tent campers should consider when planning fall visits. Some areas restrict fires during dry summer periods.
Tips for camping with families
Yurt options: For families wanting an upgrade from tent camping, The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center offers alternative accommodations. "They offer cabins and campsites. We spent 4 nights in the campsite area and this is a first class facility. Very clean. They offer a meal plan (Option for breakfast, lunch, dinner) that you can get at their dinning hall and I HIGHLY recommend that option."
Wildlife viewing: Multiple camping areas feature opportunities to observe local wildlife. At the Harriman Outdoor Center, "The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio." Croton Point Park campers report numerous rabbits, adding interest for younger campers.
Transportation options: Some camping areas near Hastings-on-Hudson provide public transportation access. The Harriman Outdoor Center is "accessible by public transportation. There is a shuttle run by the campsite to and from Tuxedo Park Train Station (reservations on shuttle required)," making it feasible for city families without vehicles.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup sites: While primarily a tent camping region, some areas do accommodate smaller RVs. Croton Point Park offers limited water and electric hookups, though experienced RVers note the reservation system can be challenging. "You need to call (no online reservations) and then wait for an e-mail, but the e-mail does not tell you your assigned site; you have to wait until you check in to find out your site."
Leveling considerations: Most RV-accessible sites in the region provide level parking areas. "We had a loosely defined gravel pad that was level. All sites appeared level," notes one RVer about Croton Point Park. The back-to-back configuration means limited privacy between sites despite tree separations.
Dump station access: RVers should plan waste management carefully as many campgrounds near Hastings-on-Hudson lack dump stations. Most tent-focused facilities have basic restroom facilities without full RV services, requiring advance planning for longer stays or trips to external dump stations in nearby communities.
