Camping sites near Yorktown Heights, New York range from primitive tent sites to full-service campgrounds with electrical hookups. Located in the lower Hudson Valley region at approximately 400 feet above sea level, the area experiences warm summers with occasional high humidity and temperatures that typically range from 75-85°F during peak camping months. Winter camping options remain limited to year-round facilities where temperatures can drop below freezing from December through March.
What to do
Swimming at Lake Welch: Located within Harriman State Park, Lake Welch offers a lifeguard-monitored sandy beach during summer months. "The beach is secured with lifeguards and shower and bathroom facilities are available. The camp ground is on RTE 287 just south of Newburgh," notes Brian O. about nearby Beaver Pond Campground.
Explore trails at Mountain Lakes Park: Home to several lakes and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County. "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," writes Ben H. about Mountain Lakes Park.
Canoeing on peaceful lakes: Several campgrounds offer canoe rentals for exploring local waterways. "You can also rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity," explains Ethan K. about The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, which features a lake that's "very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio."
What campers like
Private sites: Many campers appreciate the seclusion of campsites in the Yorktown Heights region. "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 Ethan K. about his experience at Beaver Pond Campground.
Lean-to shelters: Multiple campgrounds offer shelters as alternatives to tent camping. "All sites were so different. There was a storm the night before our arrival date, all campers were evacuated and they did a fantastic job clearing all the debris and downed trees before our arrival," shares Erinn N. about her stay at Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to observe local wildlife in natural settings. "We were able to do a hike around the lake. They have both cabins for rent and camping spots on platforms which are great, especially when it rains," reports Ethan K. about the AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, where campers can spot beavers from the dining hall patio.
What you should know
Bear awareness: Bears are common in the Harriman State Park area. "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," writes Steve W. about Beaver Pond Campground. "He offers us a highlighted map to our site, wishes us a good stay, and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area."
Seasonal bathroom maintenance: Bathroom conditions vary by campground and time of year. "Bathrooms and super nice and clean. Campfires are restricted to certain areas and you have to share. They do have bear boxes available as this is bear country," reports Thomas M. about the AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
Site differences: Campsite quality and privacy can vary significantly at each campground. "The camping sites are very different so it's useful to go in person and select the area. Parking is close, but some of the sites are also pretty close to each other so there is less privacy," explains Susana M. about Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature playground facilities for children. "Short distance from the NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," writes Zorina N. about Beaver Pond Campground.
Beach activities: Family-friendly swimming areas are available at several locations. "Beautiful sites for all types of campers," says Megan G. about Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, while other campers note the reservation's extensive trail system makes it ideal for families who enjoy hiking together.
Noise considerations: Campers report varying noise levels at different campgrounds. "This camp is run by AMC (The Appalachian Mountain Club), you don't have to be a member to use the facility but you get better rates. They offer cabins and campsites," notes Thomas M. about the AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, which many reviewers describe as peaceful despite its popularity.
Tips from RVers
Platform camping for wet weather: Many sites feature raised platforms beneficial for RVs and tents during rainy conditions. "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," explains Ethan K. about Croton Point Park, which offers both tent and RV accommodations.
Train noise at some locations: RVers should consider noise factors when selecting sites. "It's a good park/camp for groups. They have cabins and RV sites and now that the Tapan Zee bridge work is done most of them are now open again as the bridge workers have moved out," shares Andrew A. about Croton Point Park, adding, "Only down side is there is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night."
Offseason availability: Some campgrounds remain open year-round with reduced crowds. "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," reports Rebecca S. about Beaver Pond Campground, which makes it a good option for RVers seeking quieter camping experiences outside peak season.
