New York City camping areas range from basic tent sites to RV parks with urban skyline views across northern New Jersey and New York's surrounding counties. Most campgrounds within 90 minutes of Manhattan operate seasonally from April through October due to the region's cold winters. While metropolitan camping offers less seclusion than wilderness destinations, sites provide convenient access points to both city attractions and natural areas.
What to do
Explore hiking networks: Harriman State Park offers multiple trail systems near Beaver Pond Campground, including sections of the Appalachian Trail. "Hike trails are all over the place and the lake is nearby," notes Kelvin, who found the area ideal for family outings.
Visit seasonal beaches: Many state parks near NYC maintain supervised swimming areas during summer months. "They have a beach. Their staff is friendly. I love going here," explains Adaly about camping at Beaver Pond, where lifeguards monitor swimming from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Try water activities: Paddling opportunities exist at several locations including Turkey Swamp Park, where Dan W. reports, "Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from" including kayaks, canoes, paddle boats and row boats during peak season.
Utilize city access points: Ferry connections provide direct Manhattan access from Jersey City camping. "There is a ferry 100-yards away that takes you to Wall Street M-F," explains Shawn B. about staying at Liberty Harbor, making it practical for mixed urban-outdoor itineraries.
What campers like
Affordability options: State and county park campgrounds offer budget alternatives to commercial sites. "Camping for just $15," highlights Adaly about Beaver Pond, where basic tent platforms provide economical accommodation compared to higher-priced options closer to Manhattan.
Campsite platforms: Raised wooden tent platforms at Sebago Cabin Camp prevent moisture problems. "The cabins are 'rustic' - but there's what you need: cots, electricity, a fridge," explains Katharine T., who appreciated the basic but functional amenities despite spartan conditions.
Site privacy: Many outer-ring campgrounds offer more separated sites. At Cheesequake State Park, Graham D. found "plenty of parking space" and "good tree coverage" providing adequate separation between campsites, even though bathroom facilities required a walk.
Winter options: Several campgrounds including Croton Point Park remain open year-round, albeit with limited services. "We came in October to celebrate Halloween in sleepy hollow," mentions Wendy C., who found the campground "reasonably priced" and conveniently located for seasonal activities.
What you should know
Bear awareness: Wildlife encounters remain possible despite urban proximity. "Welcome to Bear Mountain" grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness!" recounts Steve W. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, where campers receive orientation about local bear activity upon arrival.
Transportation limitations: Vehicle size restrictions affect access routes. "There are height restrictions on the parkways so RVs and semis cannot travel on them without a high risk of crashing into the bridges," warns Matt S. about navigating to Nickerson Beach, requiring longer alternative routes for tall vehicles.
Noise considerations: Background urban sounds persist at most locations. "The Parkway is right there so its not a nice quiet place," notes Stacey R. about Cheesequake State Park, where highway proximity creates ambient noise levels higher than more remote camping destinations.
Pet restrictions: Dog policies vary significantly, particularly regarding beach access. At Nickerson Beach Park, "Campsite allows dogs, however, the beach does not. They have a small dog run on the other side of the large beach parking lot," explains Theresa G., highlighting the need to research specific pet-friendly areas within each property.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple parks provide dedicated children's areas. At Turkey Swamp Park, a "centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door" makes family camping more convenient according to Dan W., who found staff "attentive and outgoing."
Educational programs: Seasonal ranger activities enhance family camping experiences. "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," shares Sara P., noting these structured activities provide entertainment without technology.
Short trail options: Child-friendly hiking routes offer manageable distances. "Several short (longest one is 2.5 miles) hiking trails that are fairly well-marked" exist at Turkey Swamp Park according to Lee D., who found trails "a bit confusing at times" but "passable" even with swampy sections.
First-timer friendly: Certain sites specifically accommodate camping newcomers. Maggie A. calls Cheesequake "a great site for those who are not avid campers" since "it's close to town if you forget something and it has all the facilities you may need, bathroom, shower, etc."
Tips from RVers
Limited full hookups: Most regional RV sites offer partial connections. "Sites kind of level and very close. Power and water, and convenient dump station if staying and needing to dump," explains Joe R. about Liberty Harbor RV Park, where full sewer connections aren't available at individual sites.
Compact spacing: RV sites typically position vehicles close together. "If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig," warns Keith and Tia S. about Liberty Harbor's tight configuration, suggesting campers "pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room."
Water hose requirements: Some hookups require extended equipment. "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that," notes antruze about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, where "a 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection" despite longer listed requirements.
Access considerations: Interior roads vary in quality and width. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill," reports Nancymike K. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, contrasting with other properties that limit vehicle size or feature unpaved access routes.
