Best Tent Camping near New York City, NY

Tent campsites within reach of New York City offer a surprising range of wilderness experiences despite their proximity to urban areas. Sandy Hook in Gateway National Recreation Area provides walk-in tent sites with fire pits and picnic tables, while Croton Point Park offers tent camping along the Hudson River. Round Valley State Park Campground in New Jersey provides more remote backcountry tent camping options accessible only by hiking or boating approximately 3 miles from the trailhead.

Most primitive tent setups near NYC require some planning and preparation. At Sandy Hook, campers must use provided carts to transport gear approximately a quarter mile to their sites, as no vehicles are permitted at the campsites. Fire rings and picnic tables are standard at most locations, though amenities vary significantly. According to one visitor, "The campground is rustic with no showers or electricity. Tenting only, with all gear needing to be carried to the site." Wildlife encounters are common, particularly at Sandy Hook where raccoons are notorious for raiding improperly stored food, making the provided bear-proof storage containers essential.

Backcountry tent camping areas like those at Round Valley offer greater seclusion but require more effort to access. A review mentioned that "This is hike-in or canoe-in only. I'd opt for canoeing for the most enjoyment. It's very secluded once arriving to a campsite." Sites at Round Valley are positioned along the reservoir shoreline or set back in wooded areas, providing varied camping experiences. Stonetown Circular trail in New Jersey features primitive tent sites approximately 4 miles into an 11-mile loop trail, with one site positioned next to a flowing stream for fresh water access. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation provides tent sites that are "much farther away from the comfort stations than most campgrounds," though portable toilets are positioned closer to camping areas.

Best Tent Sites Near New York City, New York (24)

    1. Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area

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

    $30 - $150 / night

    "Very reasonable rates to pitch a tent. You get a private space with a fire pit. Ocean is close with lifeguards. Good fishing and pleasant people. Boat from New York City."

    "There are 20 tent sites spread across four loops. There is NO beach access. Some sites have shelters, others do not. Pay attention when reserving. All sites have a fire pit and picnic table."

    2. 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"

    3. 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."

    "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper."

    4. Sebago Cabin Camp — Harriman State Park

    6 Reviews
    Sloatsburg, NY
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 429-2039

    $74 - $130 / night

    "Near lake Welch- which is phenomenal for easy nearly- beach like camping. The cabins are "rustic" - but there's what you need: cots, electricity, a fridge."

    "Theae do not have plumbing or heat. It is a step up from cabin camping. They also have a beach behind it."

    5. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park

    6 Reviews
    Pomona, NY
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (617) 523-0636

    "Campfires are restricted to certain areas and you have to share.  They do have bear boxes available as this is bear country.  Very well run campground and cabins. Great Lake to swim."

    "I camped on one of the platforms, which was very nice and did not feel crowded even with other people on neighboring platforms. One highlight was having meals cooked by the stellar chef."

    6. Campgaw Mountain Reservation

    1 Review
    Ramsey, NJ
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (201) 327-3500

    7. Battle Row Campground

    4 Reviews
    Old Bethpage, NY
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (516) 572-8690

    $5 - $60 / night

    "I have lived 6 miles from this campground for the last 20 years and never knew they had tent sites. The park is clean the bathrooms are well maintained and there is a playground for the kids."

    "They have shower and restroom facilities , the showers were amazing and also so clean ! I had such a great stay and this is deffinatly one of my top favorite campgrounds."

    8. Round Valley State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Lebanon, NJ
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (908) 236-6355

    "The crystal-clear water is home to huge lake trout and the forests are bursting with wildlife. The sunsets across the lake are to die for."

    "This campground is hike in or boat in. The campsites are primitive and include a fire ring as well as a picnic table."

    9. Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #1

    1 Review
    Ringwood, NJ
    27 miles

    "Stonetown Circular trail is a 11 mile medium/high difficulty loop trail. This is the first of two primitive sites along the trail. The trailhead is across the street from a large parking lot."

    10. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation

    9 Reviews
    Cross River, NY
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (914) 864-7317

    $45 - $55 / night

    "Close to the city and civilization, yet large enough to have nice trails and creeks to feel away from it all. The camping sites are very different so it’s useful to go in person and select the area."

    "There’s elevation gain, creeks, and open fields for stargazing. You have the options of a lean to here."

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Tent Camping Reviews near New York City, NY

426 Reviews of 24 New York City Campgrounds



Guide to New York City

Tent camping near New York City offers a refreshing escape into nature, with various campgrounds providing unique experiences just a short drive away.

Local Attractions for Tent Campers

Activities for Tent Campers

Tips for Tent Camping Near New York City

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near New York City, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near New York City, NY is Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area with a 4.1-star rating from 19 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near New York City, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 24 tent camping locations near New York City, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.