Best Campgrounds near New York City, NY

Camping options near New York City range from simple parking areas to glamping retreats, creating an unusual urban camping landscape. Liberty Harbor RV Park in Jersey City offers water and electric hookups within sight of the Statue of Liberty, while Collective Governors Island provides glamping and cabin accommodations on the harbor. Several campgrounds operate as part of Gateway National Recreation Area, including sites at Sandy Hook and Staten Island, with varying levels of amenities. Beaver Pond Campground at Harriman State Park represents one of the more traditional camping experiences available within driving distance of the city.

Most campgrounds near New York City require reservations and fill quickly during peak season from April through October. RV parks often have limited space and operate primarily as parking areas with basic hookups. Gateway National Recreation Area campgrounds typically offer primitive camping with minimal amenities, while state parks provide more traditional camping facilities including showers and picnic areas. Urban noise, limited space, and proximity to densely populated areas characterize the camping experience. "This is not your usual forest camp sites, however there are some beautiful views, and it is located in the middle of Staten Island. When it comes to the usual American camping experience, this is not the place for you," noted one camper about the Staten Island Gateway campground.

Campers consistently mention location as the primary benefit of New York City area campgrounds rather than natural features or amenities. Liberty Harbor RV Park receives mixed reviews for its basic facilities but high marks for convenience to Manhattan. "If you're planning on seeing everything NYC has to offer, you can't get a better base camp unless you got a room in the city," one visitor explained. Public transportation access represents a key advantage for many sites, with several campgrounds offering walking distance to ferries, buses, or trains into Manhattan. The limited number of campgrounds results in high demand and relatively high prices compared to more rural areas. Camping areas often feature urban views rather than natural settings, with the city skyline and bridges visible from many sites. Mixed-use campgrounds combining RV sites with tent camping or glamping are common in this unique urban camping environment.

Best Camping Sites Near New York City, New York (63)

    1. Liberty Harbor RV Park

    13 Reviews
    Jersey City, NJ
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (201) 516-7500

    $149 / night

    "Very easy to hop on transit to get to New York City. People were friendly."

    "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room."

    2. Collective Governors Island

    5 Reviews
    Jersey City, NY
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 445-2033

    $529 - $1200 / night

    "The article also mentions the benefits of camping on Governor Island, such as feeling close to nature, relaxing and enjoying a peaceful space, away from the noise of the city."

    3. Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area

    19 Reviews
    Atlantic Highlands, NJ
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (347) 630-1124

    $30 - $150 / night

    "Boat from New York City."

    "Once you are there, you can walk right across the street to a bayside inlet and sandy shore that is not highly trafficked because no one can park there except those using the campground."

    4. Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area - CLOSED for 2025

    4 Reviews
    Bayonne, NY
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (718) 354-4655

    $30 / night

    "You have a clear view of the Narrow bridge and at night the city lights light up your surroundings light a nigh light. The camp here has 7 campsites here and it fill up really fast."

    "this place is awesome when it comes to finding an affordable place to stay while in NY, this camp ground isnt your usual forest camp sites, however there are some beautiful views, and it is located in"

    5. Skyline RV Camp - Non-Waterfront

    2 Reviews
    New York City, NY
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (347) 434-6891

    $85 - $120 / night

    6. Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park

    41 Reviews
    Pomona, NY
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 947-2792

    $21 - $24 / night

    "$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."

    7. Cheesequake State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Matawan, NJ
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 566-2161

    $200 / night

    "I stayed at Cheesequake at the beginning of August and had a very positive experience."

    "This park is on the list of 50 top NJ Hikes, and it has a few great trails. The trails range from easy to moderate with quite a few lookout locations."

    8. Nickerson Beach Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    Long Beach, NY
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (516) 571-7700

    "It’s basically a parking lot, but it’s steps away from some of the greatest waves on the east coast. Showers are clean, there’s a dog park nearby, and the island is very bikable to get around."

    "Very close to everything."

    9. Skyline RV Camp - Waterfront

    Be the first to review!
    New York, NY
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (347) 434-6891

    $130 / night

    10. Croton Point Park

    10 Reviews
    Croton-on-Hudson, NY
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (914) 862-5290

    $30 - $60 / night

    "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!"

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Recent Reviews near New York City, NY

447 Reviews of 63 New York City Campgrounds


  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Round Valley State Park Campground

    Get Your Hard-Core Hiking In To Enjoy This CG

    Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon, what I love most about Round Valley SP is the fact that it has its very own eponymous fresh water reservoir, which spanning some 2,350 acres and is 180 feed deep in the middle, this body of water provides a solid amount of upside for anyone wanting to kayak, canoe or swim. One of the greatest assets at this particular SP CG are the wonderful rangers who keep this place in such tip-top condition year-round. From the North Picnic Area, Bray’s Hill Preserve and Round Valley Beachhead to the East Picnic Area, Round Valley Farm on the eastern side of the reservoir as well as Round Valley Rec Area, there’s a lot to explore at this SP.

    One interesting fact about this place– believe it or not– it is the only NJ SP that actually offers up true wilderness camping(a.k.a. primitive), which can only be accessed by hiking 3 to 6 miles– or if you come with your own boat, you can access by water– and can be found on the SE corner of the reservoir. There is a second area nearby called Spruce Run Recreation Area that can be accessed by driving to this location, which is on the other side of I78 NW of Round Valley SP. That said, if you’re looking to camp here at Round Valley, I highly recommend you boat in as the hiking path is incredibly difficult to manage without hauling all of your camping gear, so coming in with a ton of gear is even more difficult/ prohibitive.

    When you finally do arrive to this primitive CG immersed in NJ’s thick wild foliage, you’ll experience waterfront bliss with a crystalline bevy of trout-infused reservoir water, and you won’t get much in the way of amenities, apart from a few random water pumps and some rocks piled in a circle that, um, I guess makes up a fire ring. While there are backwoods-style bathroom pits, these are very ill-managed and you’ll come across the‘stank’ well before actually even arriving here, so we just didn’t use them. There’s picnic tables, but the one we had was in pretty rough condition. The thing I found odd about the place is that after hiking so far in to get to this location, you’re not allowed to swim in the reservoir, which kind of defeats the entire point IMHO. That said, the views are amazing and because there’s nothing else in these parts, you will experience true peace in nature.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few:(1) Whether hiking or kayaking to this CG, you will want to bring as little with you as possible– packing too much to come here just isn’t worth the work;(2) We found parking in the Southern Lot to be perfectly fine and while we were initially worried about leaving our vehicle parked there for a few nights, we were reassured by the park rangers who patrol the lot constantly;(3) While the water in the reservoir may look crystal clear, it is not crystal clean and I would STRONGLY encourage anyone who thinks that it is OK to drink from the reservoir to at least use a Life Straw to ensure they don’t get sick;(4) I have hiked throughout the entire US and consider myself somewhere between a moderate to skilled hiker and I found these trails challenging and uneven, so while the hike we made was only 3 miles, it was not easy and I would be worried about someone breaking an ankle getting to this CG– so at a minimum, ensure you are wearing proper hiking boots. Seriously, for what this SP puts you through to access this CG one really needs to question why they’re being charged anything at all in the first place.

    Happy Camping!

  • J
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Turkey Swamp Park

    Fantastic camping ground

    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!

  • Paul K.
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Croton Point Park

    Not the Best Place to Go in the Northeast By a Longshot

    Croton Point Campground is a modest little campground, located along the Hudson River within Croton Point Park in NY. In addition to camping, the park itself offers many of its own attractions, including swimming, hiking, kayaking, cabin rentals, and a host of other family-oriented activities just along the Hudson. 

    The park, which is honestly probably the largest attraction here, is located just an hour and a half outside of the city. This proximity is both its perk and its downfall, as 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, let alone hope to justify. 

    This includes all manner of restrictions on how you can camp, where you can camp, what equipment can be used, and use in relation to what particular site you may have been lucky enough to reserve. Much of this you can understand while imagining what may have taken place here to bring them to such measures, but it doesn't make it any easier to contend with. 

    In terms of the actual camping conditions Both the tenting section and RV sites are each very clustered together, and quite crowded, with regular patrols🚓(actual patrols) being made day and night, by both the Park Rangers and what appears to be general park staff members, all looking to see if you or your family might be doing something that they might consider outside of the guidelines or not in compliance with the many restrictions. 

    This is not to say you can't possibly have a good time here. It just might mean being a bit more diligent toward reviewing the potential legitimacy of your normal camping routine to ensure it meets with many restrictions and guidelines imposed, while also making yourself comfortable with some fairly regular surveillance during your stay here. These all being things we hoped to get away from while camping ourselves It just turned out to be a bit much for our particular liking.

  • Bob F.
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Moon Valley Campground

    Very unique smaller private campground

    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. Headed back for a fall weekend in the "dome" which has incredible views. Try it you won't be sorry.

  • Carrie H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 12, 2025

    Panther Lake Camping Resort

    Horrid showers

    Probably the worst shower ever. The lights are timed. The water is a button. The space is small as hell.

  • Howard P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 16, 2025

    Adventure Bound Camping (Tall Pines)

    Beautiful and family oriented

    My wife and I, residing near the Commodore Barry, sought a brief respite. Our thirteen-year-old son was unable to join us, so we proceeded without him. We secured site 53, a deluxe site offering ample space for our 29VBUD and Ram. The site was level and meticulously maintained, as were the dirt roads. The atmosphere was tranquil and relaxing. Numerous children and abundant activities kept them engaged. Our son truly missed a delightful experience. We departed on Sunday, but the serene ambiance almost prompted us to extend our stay. The sounds of families creating memories enhanced our enjoyment. We certainly plan to return when our grandson is older.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 5, 2025

    Black Bear RV Park

    Under construction

    I would rate this a 5 when they’re finished with the upgrades. Unfortunately there was nothing on this saying that they have limited spaces due to construction or that they changed the name. We passed it up at first. A little pricey just for an overnight and since no amenities were available. It will be beautiful when they’re finished. Can’t wait to come back and give them a 5 star review! The best part was at dusk when the animals came out!

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 5, 2025

    Turkey Swamp Park

    Turkey Swamp State Park Campground

    Great campground! Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest. There are tent and RV sites and you are allowed to have a tent on the site with an RV at no extra charge. The bathrooms and showers are clean and well maintained. There is pretty lake with good fishing and they sell bait at the Ranger office. There are lots of trails and the packed dirt roads are nice for bike riding. There are playgrounds and picnic areas as well. This is a lovely campground.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 11, 2025

    Lowe's - W Windsor

    Upscale Parking Paradise @ This Home Fixer Upper

    Granted, you’re in Princeton, yeah, that place known for that one certain university, so of course the expectations are going to be high, right? So, no doubt that this Lowes is pretty awesome, well, insofar as parking lots go that is. While there’s a variety of different sized Lowes that you’ll come across, this particular big blue box retailer serves up a fairly decent sized parking patio here for your overnight paved parking pleasure. Despite being conveniently located right off US1  and just 15 to 20 minutes west of I95 – as this retailer is located in a fairly normal-paced suburban location, you are going to like that yes, while there’s no doubt traffic, it’s all manageable. Despite being located right off US1, this Lowes sits back by about 80 yards so the locale doesn’t pick up all of the highway passerby traffic noise.

    Before arriving here, we called Customer Service and spoke with a very friendly lady called Jai-isha, who connected us with the store manager, Amanda, who confirmed it was OK for us to spend the night at this particular Lowes location. So while I don’t think anyone would have any problems just rocking up here for a quick overnighter, you might want to call ahead or stop in first.

    While there was definitely an abundance of parked cars as you enter from the west side, this is the least populated area of this parking corral, as well as the southern perimeter, which is a dash bit slower, less populated and therefor quieter. If that somewhat frequently trafficked retail arena doesn’t dissuade you from parking here at this home fixer upper, then you’ll be treated to a small smattering of additional retail options such as Mattress Firm (just in case you needed a new one for your RV), Trader Joes if you need to stock up on groceries, Starbucks to get jacked up on caffeine for that road trip you’re about to take as well The Container Store in the event that you need any kind of packing materials. While these stores add to the traffic pool, you’ll discover its altogether not terribly congested.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Should you be RVing with your four-legged friends with you, then you’ll be in luck as just due north of here you’ll discover a nice patch of nature called Institute Woods (seems ironic, right?) that offers 589 acres of nicely manicured woods, farmland, wetlands and paths for you and your pet to stretch your legs – but be sure to check out the wooden bridge that spans the stream; (2) When you grow tired of trying to conjure up that next meal from the remains of what is in your onboard mini-fridge or you just want to try out some local fare, then just across the street you’ll find The Princetonian Diner otherwise there’s some fast food joints like Wendy’s and Jersey Mike’s Subs or further down US1 in either direction you have comfort casual chains like Buffalo Wild Wings and P.F. Changs; (3) If you have a canoe or kayak and want to dip the beak of your vessel into some fresh water, then head due northeast to Carnegie Lake where you can not only get some decent oaring in, but drop a line or two as well to grab a nice dinner of blue gill; and (4) Looking for a fun diversion for the kiddos? Then head on over to Stumpy’s Hatchet House for some really great axe-wielding competitions!

    While scoring criteria may vary from one person to the next, here are the 5 most important criteria that informed my rating of this overnight location: convenience (EZ on- and off-access), safety & security, quality (of facilities), peace & quiet and amenities (either on-site or nearby). Here’s how I ranked this particular overnight spot:

    Convenience: 5 

    Safety & Security: 5 

    Quality: 5 

    Peace & Quiet: 4 

    Amenities: 4 

    Overall, I scored this location a 5. 

    Happy Overnighting!


Guide to New York City

Camping near New York City offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. With a variety of campgrounds just a short drive away, you can enjoy nature while still being close to the city.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Harriman State Park. One camper mentioned, "I enjoy the beach/lakefront, option for platform sites, and regularly cleaned bathroom and shower facilities."
  • Swimming: Visit Sebago Cabin Camp for a swim in nearby Lake Welch. A reviewer said, "The cabins are 'rustic' - but there's what you need: cots, electricity, a fridge."
  • Fishing: Try your luck at Wawayanda State Park. One visitor noted, "Beautiful hiking trails around the area with a cool, shaded stream that runs close by the sites."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers appreciate the beautiful surroundings. A visitor at Croton Point Park said, "Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper."
  • Clean Facilities: Many enjoy the well-maintained amenities. A reviewer at Beaver Pond Campground mentioned, "I like the platform sites that are available, the location close to the lake and beach, and the clean shower and bathroom facilities."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Mahlon Dickerson Reservation are noted for their welcoming vibe. One camper shared, "It’s really well maintained and beautiful!"

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially during peak times. A visitor at Beaver Pond Campground warned, "When I plan my trip around the spring, fall, or summer weekends that look sparse it is quiet, clean, and the others that are at the sites are nature lovers enjoying the scenery."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive facilities. A camper at Liberty Harbor RV Park noted, "This campground is like a parking lot, with absolutely nothing but a spot to park."
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A reviewer at Nickerson Beach Park Campground mentioned, "The campsites sell out early in the season."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Mahlon Dickerson Reservation that offer a clean and pleasant environment. One parent said, "The campground is clean, paved nicely and well run."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. A camper at Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area suggested, "There are flat biking trails up and down the Hook."
  • Pack Essentials: Make sure to bring everything you need, as some campgrounds have limited stores. A visitor at Cheesequake State Park Campground noted, "Bring bikes to enjoy all the areas of the park including lookouts and beaches."

Tips from RVers:

  • Know Your Rig: Maneuvering in tight spaces can be tricky. A reviewer at Liberty Harbor RV Park advised, "Getting in and out is not for someone in a brand new 45' travel trailer."
  • Check for Amenities: Some RV parks may lack certain facilities. A visitor at Cheesequake State Park Campground mentioned, "The bathroom/shower facility is old, filthy and needs to be torn down."
  • Plan for Parking: Be aware of parking restrictions and availability. A camper at Nickerson Beach Park Campground noted, "It's hard to get to with an RV due to the parkways."

Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled weekend, camping near New York City has something for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds near New York City accessible by public transportation?

Liberty Harbor RV Park is an excellent option with easy access to public transit for getting into NYC. While primarily an RV park, it does offer a small area for tent campers. The location makes it ideal for city exploration. Another accessible option is Collective Governors Island, which is reachable by ferry from Manhattan. For those willing to combine transportation methods, you can reach several campgrounds by taking trains or buses and then completing the journey with a short taxi ride or walk, especially to Gateway National Recreation Areas in the NYC vicinity.

Where can I find beachside camping destinations near New York City?

Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area offers excellent beachside camping with reasonable rates. The sites include private spaces with fire pits, and the ocean is just a short walk away with lifeguard-protected swimming areas and good fishing opportunities. You can even access it via boat from NYC. For another oceanfront option, Nickerson Beach Park Campground on Long Island provides beachfront camping with easy access to the Atlantic. Both locations offer the rare opportunity to enjoy beach camping within relatively easy reach of New York City.

Which state parks near New York City offer the best tent camping facilities?

Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground offers excellent tent camping facilities with a nice open beach on Canopus Lake. While it can get busy on weekends, it provides a peaceful retreat with well-maintained sites. Wawayanda State Park Campground is another outstanding option in nearby New Jersey with scenic tent sites in a forested setting. Both parks feature hiking trails, swimming opportunities, and clean facilities. For tent campers seeking state park experiences near NYC, these locations offer the best combination of natural beauty, reasonable facilities, and accessibility within a 1-2 hour drive from the city.

What are affordable camping options within a short drive of New York City?

Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park offers very reasonable rates, especially for New York State residents ($15/night, with non-residents paying just $5 more). Located about an hour's drive from NYC, it provides a quick escape to nature with various camping sections to choose from. Another economical option is Croton Point Park, situated along the Hudson River approximately 35 miles from the city. This modest campground offers swimming, hiking, and kayaking opportunities, making it an affordable getaway that doesn't require extensive travel time from NYC.