Glamping options near Inwood, New York provide access to outdoor experiences within a short drive of the city. This northern Manhattan neighborhood sits at the confluence of the Hudson and Harlem Rivers, creating unique camping opportunities within a 50-mile radius. Temperatures range from winter lows in the 20s to summer highs in the 80s, affecting seasonal availability at most luxury camping sites in the region.
What to do
Kayaking and boating: At Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold Township, campers can enjoy water activities on the park's lake. "There is a lake with a boat dock and a small boardwalk. Kayaking/Canoeing, fishing, and swimming. In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," notes reviewer Lee D.
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park offers an archery range among its recreational amenities. "Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from," reports Dan W.
Winter activities: Seasonal outdoor activities continue even in colder months at some parks. "Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels. Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," suggests Patrick M. about winter recreation at Turkey Swamp Park.
Hiking trails: Mountain Lakes Park features diverse terrain with multiple trails. "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," describes Ben H.
What campers like
Ocean proximity: Smith Point County Park offers rare beachfront camping access. "Our 36ft motorhome backed up to a raised balcony overlooking the bay. Less than 100 feet from the front of our site was the beach and the Atlantic Ocean view," shares Patrick C. about his experience.
Wildlife encounters: Some glamping spots near Inwood feature natural wildlife viewing opportunities. "And sweet deer. I watched a momma deer nursing two of her babies. This is paradise," notes Patrick C. at Smith Point County Park.
Diverse accommodation options: Allaire State Park offers various lodging types beyond standard tent sites. "I have stayed in all the spots they offer, yurt, cabin and the pull up sites. It is well maintained with numerous trails to hike. Getting a cabin in the winter and going for a snowy hike is wonderful there," explains Patrick M.
Convenience to NYC: Luxury camping sites near Inwood balance nature with metropolitan proximity. "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," notes Ethan K.
What you should know
Site privacy varies: Campgrounds differ significantly in how secluded individual sites feel. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest," reports Katheryn N. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Insects and ticks: Be prepared for potential bug issues, especially in wooded areas. "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2. That was so crazy because we were just sitting by our camper," warns LAURA Y. about her experience at Turkey Swamp Park.
Weather considerations: Camp Glen Gray in New Jersey's Ramapo Mountains offers rustic accommodations with limitations. "Great Camp! One rustic place with many hiking trails to choose from. Camp also provides trucking of gear weather permitting. No vehicles allowed to drive through camp," explains Jose N.
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites in the Inwood area require advance booking, with some limiting stay duration. "ONLY DRAWBACKS, 1- YOU HAVE TO BE A RESIDENT OF SUFFOLK CO, NY, 2- ONE WEEK STAY AT A TIME. PERIOD," notes Tim M. about Smith Point County Park's policies.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Campgrounds with organized recreation options help keep children entertained. "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions," says Christopher M. about Adventure Bound Camping.
Age-appropriate facilities: Some parks offer amenities specifically designed for children. "There are age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office," mentions Lee D. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Bug preparation: Pack appropriate insect protection, especially when camping with young children. "We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. We were worried about bugs, but we didn't even use mosquito repellent and didn't get a single bite! The campground was super clean too. It was perfect!" shares JAEWOOK P. about their Turkey Swamp Park experience.
Entertainment options: Some glamping sites feature unexpected amenities like ice cream service. "At nite an ice cream truck comes by, you get visits from the nearby deer. It is paradise," describes Tim M. about Smith Point County Park.
Tips from RVers
Pad surface variations: RV sites have different surface types that affect setup and comfort. "Sites in Loops B-E all have pull-thru driveways. Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy. A lantern hook, picnic table, and fire ring complete each site. As mentioned, all roads and camper pads are dirt," notes Lee D.
Shower and bathroom considerations: Facilities vary significantly between glamping options near Inwood. "Less than 100 feet from the front of our site was the beach and the Atlantic Ocean view. A stones throw away was one of several shower and rest room buildings. Clean and well lit," describes Patrick C. at Smith Point County Park.
Hookup availability: Pine Cone Campgrounds provides standard amenities but has maintenance issues. "The stall doors are quite small and lack privacy, which can be a discomfort for many guests. Moreover, only one stall has a functioning lock, which can be inconvenient during peak times," warns Bradley B.
Site selection strategy: Corner sites often provide additional space and better views. "Stayed at site 12. Sites are great overlooking the bay. Bathroom lights are bright. 10 would be better. I also like the corner sites as they are bigger," advises Stephen P. about Smith Point County Park.
