Tent camping near Montebello, New York ranges across several state parks within Bergen and Rockland counties, with elevations from 200 to 1,400 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Winter snowfall can make primitive camping challenging between December and March when many seasonal facilities close.
What to do
Waterfront activities: Lake swimming with designated areas at Sebago Cabin Camp provides summer recreation options. "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day," notes Ethan K. Some campers recommend visiting nearby lakes if swimming isn't available at your campsite. "Don't expect to swim on site- go to Lake Welch near by!" advises Katharine T.
Winter sports: Many camping areas transform into snow activity zones during winter months. Some primitive sites remain accessible for cold-weather camping when properly equipped. Campers staying at Campgaw Mountain Reservation can access winter recreation. "Busy but Lonely" is how Jake R. describes the experience, noting "There was also plenty to do during the day, like joining the hikers on those trails, disc golf, and sitting by the water."
Communal events: Several campgrounds host organized activities on weekends. "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too," says Sara P. These events typically run between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends.
What campers like
Proximity to NYC: The short distance from urban areas makes these sites popular weekend getaways. "Close enough to the city, far enough to enjoy the nature. Expect crowds," warns Esther L. about The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center. Many sites can be reached within 90 minutes from Manhattan, making them accessible for short trips.
Food service options: Some campgrounds offer meal plans for those who don't want to cook. "One highlight was having meals cooked by the stellar chef. The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio," shares Ilya F. Another camper adds, "They offer a meal plan (Option for breakfast, lunch, dinner) that you can get at their dinning hall and I HIGHLY recommend that option. Worth the added cost."
Public transit access: Several camping areas can be reached without a car. "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)," explains Ilya F. This makes the best tent camping near Montebello particularly accessible for New Yorkers without vehicles.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies widely between established and primitive sites. At Croton Point Park, "Clean but a bit dated. No shelves or hooks for toiletries," reports Lee D., who also notes, "There was a sign warning that the toilets were slow flushing." Primitive sites have no facilities, requiring proper waste management techniques.
Campground rules: Some parks enforce strict regulations. "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," comments Paul K. These rules often include quiet hours starting at 10 PM and fire restrictions during dry periods.
Wildlife awareness: Bears and smaller wildlife are common in camping areas. "Ticks and bears," notes M P. about potential encounters. Another camper advises, "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose campgrounds with appropriate amenities for children. "They have both cabins for rent and camping spots on platforms which are great, especially when it rains," recommends Ethan K. about Moon Valley Campground. "Very unique smaller private campground... Bring your tent or use the existing glamping tents," suggests Bob F.
Kid-friendly programs: Look for campgrounds with organized activities. "Sebago cabins the way to get away and relax enjoy the lake... very kid friendly ranger Joe is with the kids and they have wood for purchase on site," reports Hashim C. Some campgrounds offer weekend programming specifically designed for children.
Accessible recreation: Parks often feature playgrounds and easy trails. "There is a model airplane air field and a decent playground for young kids," notes Andrew A. Kevin G. shares his family's experience: "I took my 5 year-old-son and wife, all of us first time campers. this place was great."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Many campgrounds have minimal RV infrastructure. At Wawayanda State Park Campground, "Campgrounds are a narrow patch of grass by the roadway. Site #3 is on a hill which doesn't make for a comfortable night of sleep," warns M P. Most primitive sites are completely inaccessible to RVs due to narrow access roads.
Seasonal restrictions: Some campgrounds have limited seasonal availability for larger vehicles. "The parking for your car is 1/4 mile away but they allow you to unload and give you a wagon to take stuff to your site," explains Thomas M. Campground closures typically run from late October through early April.
Reservation requirements: Most RV-accessible sites require advance booking. "The reservation process is a bit wonky. You need to call (no online reservations) and then wait for an e-mail, but the e-mail does not tell you your assigned site; you have to wait until you check in to find out your site," explains Lee D. RV sites often book 2-3 months in advance during summer weekends.
