M
Michael M.
Scout
ScoutTurkey Swamp Park
Water/power at the campsite, and and centrally located dump station. Lots of trees and nice separation of sites
Tent Camping near New York City, NY
1 campground with availability this weekend
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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 Campgrounds near New York City (22)
1. Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area
"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."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $30 - $50 / night
2. Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area - CLOSED for 2025
"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"
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $30 / night
3. Croton Point Park
"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."
Check Availabilityfrom $30 - $60 / night
4. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park
"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."
5. Campgaw Mountain Reservation
6. Battle Row Campground
"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."
Check Availabilityfrom $5 - $60 / night
7. Round Valley State Park Campground
"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."
"Unlike traditional campgrounds, the campsites are accessible only by hiking or boating, so getting anywhere here requires some planning and a willingness to travel light."
8. Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #1
"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."
9. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation
"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."
Check Availabilityfrom $45 - $55 / night
10. Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #2
"Stonetown Circular trail is a 11 mile medium/high difficulty loop trail. This is the second of two primitive sites along the trail. The trailhead is across the street from a large parking lot."
Drive Time
- from New York, NY
- 49 min from Kiryas Joel, NY
- 1 hr 2 min from Bridgeport, CT
- 1 hr 10 min from Trenton, NJ
Recent Tent Camping Photos near New York City, NY
42 Photos of 22 New York City Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Tent Camping Reviews near New York City, NY
440 Reviews of 22 New York City Campgrounds
Maria Mercedes M.
LegendRound Valley State Park Campground
Peaceful Wilderness Escape for Adventurous Families
There's something wonderfully special about escaping into nature where the only sounds are rustling leaves, birds singing and the gentle movement of water along the shoreline. Nestled among the wooded hills surrounding the beautiful Round Valley Reservoir, this rustic SP campground offers families a chance to disconnect from everyday distractions and enjoy a little wilderness adventure together. Unlike traditional campgrounds, the campsites are accessible only by hiking or boating, so getting anywhere here requires some planning and a willingness to travel light. Once you've arrived, you'll find secluded, wooded campsites with picnic tables, fire rings and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Amenities are basic, with pit toilets and no showers, but the beautiful reservoir, scenic hiking trails, fishing and kayaking opportunities more than make up for the lack of modern conveniences. Our kids loved exploring the woods, spotting wildlife and gathering around a crackling campfire at night to share stories beneath the stars. For families comfortable with the hike, I'd recommend choosing one of the campsites along the reservoir shoreline for the lovely water views and peaceful surroundings. Just remember that swimming is limited to the park's designated beach area. Round Valley isn't your typical family campground, but for adventurous families who enjoy hiking, camping under the stars and making wonderful memories together, it's a beautiful place to experience nature at its finest!
Edwin R.ScoutCheesequake State Park Campground
Park uses county cops to shut down park by 9pm.
On Friday, September 4, 2026, I rented a trailer and brought my family to Cheesequake State Park to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary over the extended Labor Day weekend. Around 9:20 PM—well before the park's designated 10:00 PM quiet hours—we were sitting inside our canopy, playing Jenga, and listening to low background music. Two officers from the Matawan Police Department approached our campsite. They were polite and courteous, simply offering a standard reminder to wrap things up by 10:00 PM. Before they could leave, however, a third, senior officer intervened. Wanting to"show them how it's done," he made the two polite officers return and stand by to watch as he demonstrated how to aggressively harass campers. Flashlight in hand, the senior officer approached with an immediate hostile attitude, treating us like criminals as he demanded to know who rented the site. He began reiterating rules and claimed we had too many vehicles. We had three cars, one belonging to my brother-in-law's girlfriend, who was visiting with her daughter. She had paid the$10 visitor fee at the main office and was instructed by staff to obtain the gate access code from us, the primary renters, if she got locked in. No staff member ever informed her of an 8:00 PM visitor departure deadline, leading us to reasonably assume visitors were permitted until quiet hours began at 10:00 PM. The officer rudely snapped that she had been given wrong information. The senior officer then used profanity in front of three small children, aggressively telling her to ("get her shit and get the fuck out!") in that manner or use profanity, the officer went from hostile to furious. He angrily declared that these were official violations and threatened that he could be issuing us tickets instead. Desperately searching for anything and everything to throw at us, he demanded that we turn off our idling car—which was supplying power to our campsite—and instructed us to make sure the campfire was doused before shutting down for the night. He then proceeded to shine his flashlight into our private setup—including our canopy, tents, and the inside of our trailer—searching for any other possible violation while the two polite officers were forced to watch. What was supposed to be a special 10th wedding anniversary celebration with my family was completely ruined by a senior officer misusing his authority to put on an unnecessary display of intimidation. Worse than just ruining our night, he spent that evening teaching those two police officers how to be bad cops. He corrupted two officers in real time, demonstrating firsthand exactly why most people have lost faith in the police force. The next day we was ready for them. We turned off our lights and quietly by the fire while they went next door to harass an asian family that had just set up camp and had their leds lights on.
- KKelly B.
GuideClarence Fahnestock State Park Campground
Check site photos first
Definitely a wide variety of sites—look at the site pictures before booking—there are two areas where it’s just an open field with bonfires and picnic tables that I’d avoid. I could see a large group going there or something but personally it doesn’t offer any privacy.
BUT if you book one of the other sites that DOES have privacy you’ll be in camping heaven. The “hike in” sites are more like “walk-in,” I was worried at first but it’s some are as little as a few yards from the road. The most annoying part was lugging the cooler back and forth, but totally worth it
- KKelly B.Guide
Stephens State Park Campground
Great last min getaway
Booked the day before—even on the holiday weekend! Just 1.5 hours outside of NYC, site was a bit close to the neighbors (fire pit was very far back and basically in the neighbors’ campsite, but we put up a “privacy clothesline” and hung a tarp over it for a bit of extra coverage.
The staff was friendly and helpful, they said it was the busiest they’ve seen the campground all year (there were lots of large groups but everyone seemed to settle down by 9:30pm
Poison ivy was EVERYWHERE at our site so make sure to stick to the open areas and the paths. Lots of families around, we felt very safe Bathrooms were fine—it was my impression they’re usually cleaner but the high traffic of the weekend left a bit to be desired, (lots of families around=dirty diapers in the bathroom trash bin) but it’s camping! I’m not gonna argue w a flushing toilet!
- JJoyceScout
Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park
Bare bones
No hookups. It was wooded, quiet and dark at night. I used the dump station on my way out. The first time I ever saw a poop fountain. The sewer opening sticks up above ground level. The cover swivels away, so I couldn't put it on top of my hose. And then, when I tried to rinse it, there was nowhere for it to go, because the inlet is elevated.
Tabatta C.ScoutVoorhees State Park Campground
Clean and well maintained!
I spent 4 days and 3 nights with my 6th grade Girl Scouts. We were at sites 23 and 24 which worked out great because they back up against each other. The bathrooms were super clean and well maintained. There are outlets at the bathroom building by the sink to charge any electronics. The playground is adequate and the field is big for playing. There are many things to do close by too like the observatory, Round Valley beach, Grounds for Art, etc. We all really enjoyed ourselves and plan on returning.
- CCarlos E.Scout
Turkey Swamp Park
Really nice campground
Stayed three nights in a tent and enjoyed it very much. Sites have electrical hookups, shared water connections, large picnic table, and fire ring with adjustable grate. Electrical and water are at the outer edge of each site so you might want an extension cord and/or hose. Bathrooms are clean; showers have separate stalls but they’re clustered together (not the most private). There are hiking and biking trails, a lake, and archery park. Staff are friendly. Office is open through 9pm, and firewood, ice, and bait for fishing are available. Site C3 is in an okay spot; it’s close to the bathroom and laundry room, but also right next to the playground. We were able to visit the beach; easy 25 minute drive to Asbury Park.
- AAimee K.
TravelerTurkey Swamp Park
Great Park
Beautiful park and very peaceful. Rangers are super friendly. This is exactly what camping should be.
Guide to New York City
Tent camping near New York City offers primitive camping experiences with varying levels of seclusion and access difficulty. Sites range from 45 minutes to 2 hours from the city, with elevations up to 1,300 feet in some locations. Most primitive sites require campers to filter water from nearby streams or bring their own, especially at more remote locations away from established facilities.
What to do
Paddle on reservoirs: Round Valley State Park Campground offers excellent water activities for primitive campers. "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," says one visitor. The reservoir has crystal clear water ideal for paddling and swimming.
Explore military history: Camp Gateway Staten Island provides a unique urban camping experience with historical elements. "There are abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring. There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building," notes one camper. The site offers views of the Narrow bridge and city lights rather than stars.
Winter recreation: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation remains open year-round and transforms during winter months. "Ward Pound Ridge is very well known to the locals as a great place for sled-riding in winter (Pell Hill area) and a place for big group gatherings," explains a regular visitor. The reservation's varied terrain makes it suitable for all-season camping.
What campers like
Natural water access: Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #1 provides more rugged camping approximately 2 miles into an 11-mile loop trail. "This is a great spot to set up camp because it has a wide area and an amazing view. You will find the site right next to the American Flag at the top of the mountain," notes a hiker. The site requires navigating a challenging rock scramble, so packing light is advisable.
Wildlife encounters: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center offers tent platforms that provide protection from rain and ground moisture. "The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio," says one camper. The center is accessible via public transportation, with a shuttle service from Tuxedo Park Train Station.
Solitude without distance: While most remote sites require significant hiking, Campgaw Mountain Reservation offers a different experience. "Once the sun goes down, the campsite becomes a ghost town (except for the odd sheriff driving down the road). We went on a holiday weekend, and we were the only campsite that was occupied," reports a camper. The trade-off is proximity to popular hiking trails that run through the camping area.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Many primitive camping areas require in-person booking. "There is no phone or internet reservations and has to be made in person at the office. I would recommend call earlier and come in few minutes earlier to 9 am when the office opens to find the best spots," advises a camper at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.
Fire regulations: Rules about fires differ significantly between sites. Battle Row Campground has strict requirements: "There are NO fire pits, you must bring your own. Fires are allowed but you must have a fire container or bucket for your fire off of the ground," explains a camper. Sites have raised BBQ pits for cooking only.
Access limitations: Vehicle access varies widely. At Sandy Hook, "No cars are permitted in the campground, so you will have to lug your gear to your spot so choose wisely my friends!" warns one reviewer. Other sites require hiking several miles with all gear, particularly at Round Valley where sites are at least 3 miles from parking areas.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Croton Point Park offers family-friendly amenities including a playground visible from campsites. "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper," notes a visitor. The park occupies a peninsula on the Hudson River with varied terrain.
Rental options: For families not ready for tent camping, Sebago Cabin Camp provides alternatives. "These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge. You still feel like you are 'roughing it' but with the convenience of a fridge," explains a camper. The cabins lack plumbing and heat but provide more structure than tents.
Wildlife precautions: Teach children about proper food storage, especially in raccoon-heavy areas. "Sites also have metal storage units for locking up foodstuffs to protect them from being pilfered by the numerous and bold raccoons," mentions a camper at Sandy Hook. Some campers recommend dry bags for additional protection.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Battle Row Campground provides basic amenities for RVers. "The sites have provided electric and water and are kept so clean. They have shower and restroom facilities, the showers were amazing and also so clean!" reports an RV camper. However, there are no sanitary dump stations on site.
Site selection strategy: For RVs at Croton Point Park, request sites away from the train depot. "Only down side is there is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night," notes a reviewer. The park layout places tent sites after RV sites, creating different noise and traffic patterns.
Off-season advantages: Several campgrounds remain open year-round with fewer restrictions during off-peak times. For RVers seeking more space, avoiding summer weekends is recommended as primitive tent campers often spread into RV areas during peak season at many facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent
campsite near New York City, NY?
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 18 reviews.
What is the best site to find
tent camping near
New York City, NY?
What is the best site to find tent camping near New York City, NY?
TheDyrt.com has all 22 tent camping locations near New York City, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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