Luxury cabin and yurt camping options surround Larchmont, New York, primarily within a 25-40 mile radius of this southern Westchester County community. The region features wooded highlands to the north and coastal environments to the east, with elevations ranging from sea level to approximately 400 feet. Spring camping season typically begins in April when daytime temperatures average 55-65°F, though many campgrounds restrict water hookups until overnight temperatures remain above freezing.
What to do
Hiking at Mountain Lakes Park: The park features multiple trails surrounding its namesake lakes, ranging from easy lakeside paths to more challenging routes. One camper noted, "There are many hikes which can be trekked straight from the campgrounds which is always a huge plus in my mind. When we were there it was right after a rain storm and everything was a bit muddy and slippery."
Beach access at Smith Point County Park: Located on Fire Island, this park offers oceanfront camping with direct beach access. A camper described the experience: "Great first experience. Had onsite bathrooms and showers that were clean. 1 minute walk over the dune to the Atlantic ocean."
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds feature opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Smith Point County Park, one visitor shared, "At nite an ice cream truck comes by, you get visits from the nearby deer. It is paradise."
Shopping excursions: For campers wanting to combine outdoor experiences with shopping, Wildwood State Park Campground offers proximity to retail options. A camper mentioned, "There are lots of stores nearby as well as orchards to pick your own fruits. I stayed there one weekend and went to Splish Splash waterpark that's not far away. There is also a Tanger Outlet nearby."
What campers like
Secluded yurt camping near Larchmont: For campers seeking Larchmont-area yurt accommodations, Moon Valley Campground provides unique structures with scenic views. One camper shared, "This was a great campsite nestled in the foothills of Northern NJ on the NY border. Small, clean with great views and great location for hiking, cruising etc. Bring your tent or use the existing glamping tents."
Military-only facilities: West Point FMWR facilities offer exclusive accommodations for military personnel. A reviewer of Lake Frederick noted, "Being military-only keeps standards high, the campground clean and well maintained. Between rustic power-only campsites that give you a true camping experience and upgraded but, still simple cabins which allow campers of all ages and abilities to enjoy the outdoor experience, there is something for everyone."
Unique platform tent sites: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation features elevated tent platforms. As one camper explained, "They have these 12x12 platforms to put your tent on. This was pretty cool especially since some of the sites are all gravel with surrounding dirt. The sites are very large and I suggest site 7. It is on a hill so have a hand truck or a few people to carry stuff."
Waterfront settings: Many campers appreciate the waterfront locations available near Larchmont. At Smith Point County Park, a visitor described, "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."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly for specialty accommodations like yurts near Larchmont. Smith Point County Park has specific residency requirements: "Only drawbacks, 1- You have to be a resident of Suffolk Co, NY, 2- One week stay at a time. Period."
Seasonal limitations: Water hookups are typically unavailable during colder months. A recent visitor to West Point FMWR Round Pond Recreation Area noted, "Unfortunately, due to our early start in the camping season the weather did not allow us to enjoy fishing or the beach or water hook ups, however all areas looked well maintained."
Cell service variations: Coverage can be inconsistent at campgrounds, especially in more remote areas. A Round Pond camper shared, "Just a note to other campers with T-Mobile, we did not have any service on the campsite, however just a hop in the car or a quick walk down the mountain for 5G service near the entrance off the main road."
Campground-specific rules: Some parks have unique rules regarding alcohol, fires, or vehicle limitations. At Wildwood State Park, a visitor mentioned, "Recently they became very stringent about parking to vehicles at the site making it very difficult to visit with a family and 2 vehicles. I usually host group camping trips and the single vehicle rule makes that very difficult."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families with children should consider campgrounds with dedicated play areas. Round Pond Recreation Area earned praise from a parent: "We were very impressed with the playground on site! Unfortunately, due to our early start in the camping season the weather did not allow us to enjoy fishing or the beach or water hook ups."
Trading post conveniences: Camp Glen Gray offers supplies at its on-site store, which campers find helpful for family trips. A review noted, "Trading Post for treats and other items. Many camp sites open to rent. Cabins - Leanto - Tent Sites."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds are quieter than others. A Mahlon Dickerson visitor reported, "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection."
Beach safety features: For families planning yurt camping trips near Larchmont with water activities, Lake Frederick offers enhanced safety: "The new docks around the swimming area create a safer swimming experience for even the most inexperienced swimmers, allowing them safe and obvious perimeters."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through site availability: RVers appreciate campgrounds with easy access sites. A Wildwood State Park visitor shared, "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities."
Dump station facilities: Some campgrounds offer full hookups while others provide central dump stations. At Mahlon Dickerson, a reviewer noted, "Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point. Nice and easy little campground."
Campsite layout and spacing: Sites vary considerably in size and privacy. One Wildwood State Park camper observed, "Camper side review: Stayed here for two nights with my popup and was surrounded by large motor homes/RVs. sites had zero privacy and were all pull through. There was water, electric and sewer hookups at each site, but this was an expensive place to 'camp'."
