93 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds near Katonah, New York primarily cluster around state parks and county reservations, with campsites ranging from traditional tent sites and lean-to shelters to RV hookups and cabins — all within striking distance of New York City. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation provides shelter camping with access to over 40 miles of hiking trails, while Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground accommodates both tent and RV campers from April through December. Most camping areas in this region feature a mix of traditional tent sites, lean-to shelters, and in some locations, cabins or yurts, making the area suitable for different camping preferences.
Reservations are essential at most campgrounds, with many requiring in-person booking. "Ward Pound Ridge has great sites and is open all year round. You need to book in person but it can be done well in advance if need be," explained one visitor. Sites at popular destinations like Croton Point Park can fill quickly during summer weekends. The camping season for most developed sites generally runs from April through October, though Ward Pound Ridge remains open year-round. Winter camping requires additional preparation due to potentially cold temperatures and fewer available amenities. Most campgrounds provide basic facilities such as toilets and picnic tables, with some offering showers and hookups for RVs.
Campers consistently highlight the natural surroundings and trail access as major draws to the region. The mixed-use campgrounds typically feature fire rings or pits, with firewood available at some locations. Several visitors note the contrast between the wilderness feel and proximity to urban areas. As one camper observed, "Mountain Lakes park is a great place to camp within driving distance from NYC. There are also many hikes which can be trekked straight from the campgrounds." Some camping areas like Croton Point Park offer additional recreational opportunities, including swimming beaches with lifeguards during summer months. While sites vary in privacy, many campgrounds provide enough separation between sites to create a sense of solitude despite being relatively close to civilization.
"When you are camping with a large group of friends and don't all have access to a car, this is the perfect spot."
"We were right next to the entrance for hiking trails which was convenient. The facilities are a bit of a walk, but that means it is spread out and there's plenty of room to relax and have fun."
from $21 / night
Check Availability"Close to the city and civilization, yet large enough to have nice trails and creeks to feel away from it all. The camping sites are very different so it’s useful to go in person and select the area."
"The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience. The staff is friendly as well"
from $45 - $55 / night
Check Availability"15 dolares la noche para los que viven en el Estado de New York o New York city .. si es fuera del estado son $5 dolares mas!!"
"Drive-in tent campgrounds. Adequate restroom facilities sprinkled amongst tent sites. Some campsites have raised platforms. All sites have picnic tables and fire ring with flip-top grill."
from $21 - $24 / night
Check Availability"Tent sites are very private with some dirt roads to exit out but thats what make it unique experience! Bathrooms with shower is near by and has plenty porta potties all around."
"Was close to bear mountains state part and the train station is right there!"
from $30 - $60 / night
Check Availability"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."
"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."
"Love the proximity to NYC - I always look for areas that are not too far, but not too close to NY. Beautiful but small-ish tent sites."
"We are looking forward to stopping by Round Pond again in the near future."
from $25 - $40 / night
Check Availability"This was beautiful campground with an even nicer lake. You are able to do a hike around the lake."
"Great trails to hike for novices looking to branch out but not too large that you'll be lost forever lol highly recommend and can't do so enough 👍🏽"
"We love this State Park because it's close to our home for a quick getaway. This time we tried one of the sites on the water, and I probably wouldn't choose the same site again. "
"Semi private with great view and nice walks to the water. Noise was not a problem overnight as to having problems with noises neighbors at other CT state parks."
from $17 - $50 / night
Check Availability"It is a step up from cabin camping. They also have a beach behind it."
"This place is only an hour away from NYC with so much to do and see. These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge."
from $130 / night
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GuideMade a reservation (site44) since I arrived as the sun had set. Office registration was open until 8. Staff was neither friendly nor unfriendly. Bathroom was dated but fine and a short walk from my site. CG was emptier being a Tuesday night in mid-October, so was plenty of space.
Great trail following the Hudson River. Beautiful fall colors.
ScoutNice campground, bathrooms are clean but dated, first come first serve for the sites.
TravelerThe staff were very friendly and helpful. The facilities: bathrooms, showers, dump station were spotless. The sites vary from tent only to some sites offering electric. Quiet, peaceful, lovely campground!
RangerI'll start by saying this is a site-specific review (C20). I booked using Campspot and didn't select my own site but put in the criteria for my rig (30ft TT plus truck) and got a 50A back-in spot. The site was big but abnormal. Between the picnic table placement and the trees, I ended up right around 50ft from the electric and water, and the water spigot was so low I could barely put on my camco filter. With the uneven dirt roads, I had to unhitch with my truck in a gigantic puddle (lol). The site was otherwise fine aside from my gate code not working on Day 2. As for the campground as a whole, I thought it was pretty unique place by the river that offered several good amenities and activities, like downstream river tubing, an arcade, bathroom/shower facilities, a small store, little trails, and more. I would say this place borders the more primitive side.
ScoutPast reviews has mentioned that the office seems to be closed often, while I found that to be true I had no reason to contact anyone. This is definitely one of the cleanest quiets site I’ve ever visited
GuideDefinitely a wide variety of sites—look at the site pictures before booking—there are two areas where it’s just an open field with bonfires and picnic tables that I’d avoid. I could see a large group going there or something but personally it doesn’t offer any privacy.
BUT if you book one of the other sites that DOES have privacy you’ll be in camping heaven. The “hike in” sites are more like “walk-in,” I was worried at first but it’s some are as little as a few yards from the road. The most annoying part was lugging the cooler back and forth, but totally worth it
ScoutNo hookups. It was wooded, quiet and dark at night. I used the dump station on my way out. The first time I ever saw a poop fountain. The sewer opening sticks up above ground level. The cover swivels away, so I couldn't put it on top of my hose. And then, when I tried to rinse it, there was nowhere for it to go, because the inlet is elevated.
ScoutWe stay at a lot of Jellystone parks so have become accustomed to the park layouts and activities. This one was well maintained with clean facilities. Some things like the mini golf and fire pits needed maintenance. The pools were nice but get very busy later in the day. The sites up on the hills are nice but beware, it’s a hill! There is little to no WiFi or cell service or it gets easily bogged down, so be ready for that. Food was basic but good. Some activities like bingo were a bit chaotic and there were a lot of ground hornets around the jumping pillows. Would totally go again.
ScoutThis is not the place to come if what you are looking for is a nice quiet, peaceful nature retreat. The "full shade" sites really aren't, it's crowded with kids yelling and running everywhere, and honestly, you're better off camping in your backyard.
The Hudson Valley region surrounding Katonah, New York provides several established campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation in nearby Pound Ridge features year-round camping with lean-to shelters and tent sites, while Clarence Fahnestock State Park offers both tent and RV camping from April through December. Several mixed-use campgrounds in the area accommodate multiple camping styles, including Mountain Lakes Park with its yurt options and Croton Point Park where tent, RV, and cabin camping are available along the Hudson River shoreline.
Most campgrounds in the Katonah area require advance reservations, though reservation systems vary by location. Ward Pound Ridge requires in-person booking at their office. "Ward Pound Ridge is very well known to the locals as a great place for sled-riding in winter and a place for big group gatherings. The many different trails are frequented by the locals as well," noted one visitor. Seasonal considerations affect camping experiences, with some campgrounds like Beaver Pond in Harriman State Park operating only from April to October. The area experiences typical Northeast seasonal variations with cold winters that limit camping options and warm summers that attract more visitors. Many campgrounds maintain shower facilities and toilets, though amenities vary by location.
Campers consistently highlight the extensive trail networks as a primary attraction at area campgrounds. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation receives particular praise for its 40+ miles of hiking trails accessible directly from campsites. One camper mentioned that "the shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience." Water activities represent another popular feature, particularly at Croton Point Park where visitors enjoy beach access along the Hudson River. While some campgrounds offer more secluded experiences with well-spaced sites, others like Croton Point can become crowded and noisy, especially on weekends. Reviews frequently mention wildlife sightings, particularly deer, rabbits, and raccoons. Proximity to New York City (approximately 45 miles south) makes these campgrounds popular weekend destinations for urban residents seeking outdoor experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Katonah, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, Katonah, NY offers a wide range of camping options, with 93 campgrounds and RV parks near Katonah, NY and 3 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Katonah, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Katonah, NY is Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 34 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Katonah, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Katonah, NY.
What parks are near Katonah, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 parks near Katonah, NY that allow camping, notably Hop Brook Lake and Northfield Brook Lake.
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