Tent camping near Lake Mohegan, New York offers diverse terrain across multiple county and state parks within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at elevations ranging from 200 to 1,300 feet, featuring deciduous forest ecosystems that support abundant wildlife including white-tailed deer, red foxes, and over 200 bird species. Winter camping remains available at select locations, though temperatures can drop below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Kayaking at Croton Point Park: The Hudson River access provides paddling opportunities with rental equipment available during summer months. "This must be one of the most breathtaking camp grounds right on the Hudson with beach and trails. Short 5 minute drive to nearby supermarket to pick up food or firewood," notes a camper at Croton Point Park.
Swimming at controlled beaches: Lake swimming with lifeguards offers family-friendly water activities. "They have a lodge and cabins close to the end of the point... There used to be a pool but from the looks of it, it hasn't been in use for many years," explains a visitor describing facilities at Croton Point.
Hiking the trail networks: Extensive connected paths range from flat lakeside walks to challenging mountain climbs. At Mountain Lakes Park, a camper shares, "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."
Winter camping and cold-weather activities: Several parks maintain year-round camping access, with seasonal snow sports available. "We came in October to celebrate Halloween in sleepy hollow! This is a great campsite and reasonably priced. Was close to bear mountains state part and the train station is right there!" explains a camper about Croton Point Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer adequate separation between tent areas. At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, a camper states, "The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience. The staff is friendly as well."
Natural wildlife encounters: The region supports diverse animal populations with viewing opportunities. "There are lots of bunnies!" mentions one Croton Point camper, while another warns, "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night."
Accessibility from NYC: Public transportation options make reaching campgrounds possible without a vehicle. At The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, a visitor notes, "This campsite is accessible by public transportation. There is a shuttle run by the campsite to and from Tuxedo Park Train Station (reservations on shuttle required)."
Rustic camping structures: Many locations feature lean-tos and shelters as alternatives to traditional tent camping. "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," writes a Ward Pound Ridge camper.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Many campgrounds require in-person booking rather than online systems. "I would recommend call earlier and come in few minutes earlier to 9 am when the office opens to find the best spots," advises a camper at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.
Noise factors: Train tracks and park activities can create unexpected sound disturbances. "Only down side is there is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night," warns a Croton Point Park camper, while another mentions, "The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm."
Wildlife precautions: Bears and raccoons require proper food storage. "They do have bear boxes available as this is bear country," notes a camper at Sebago Cabin Camp.
Rule variations between parks: Each location maintains distinct camping regulations and restrictions. "The park itself, but particularly the campground, has become laden with all sorts of inexplicable and burdensome rules, endless guidelines, and restrictions only a New York State-run bureaucracy could ever make sense of," explains one frustrated Croton Point camper.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access considerations: Swimming areas often have strict schedules and boundaries. "Clean park with a place to swim but only within buoys and when a life guard is present," notes a Croton Point visitor.
Playground locations: Several campgrounds feature play structures near campsites. "Beautiful campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper," shares a Croton Point camper.
First-time camping options: Certain sites specifically cater to novice campers. "I took my 5 year-old-son and wife, all of us first time campers. this place was great. The site was very nice, all the people friendly and area beautiful," reports a visitor to Croton Point Park.
Cabin alternatives: For families uncertain about tent camping, cabin rentals provide transitional options. At Peace and Carrots Farm, a visitor shares, "In September my Girlfriend (who has never been camping) and I made the trip to New York. I love camping but I knew that I needed to slowly adjust her into the idea of being in and sleeping in the great outdoors. This place was the perfect fit."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most campgrounds provide only partial services for recreational vehicles. "Sebago cabins the way to get away and relax enjoy the lake. Most cabins have 2 rooms with 4 cots but some are larger inside has a full fridge and double hot plate outside a fire pit and grill with table," notes a camper.
Size restrictions: Many local campgrounds cannot accommodate larger RVs due to road conditions and site limitations. "They have rustic cabins. These do not have plumbing or heat. It is a step up from cabin camping," explains a Sebago visitor.
Alternative camping structures: Consider platform tents or yurts instead of traditional RV camping. "You are 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," recommends a visitor to The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
