Winding Hills Park
Nice but dated
Nice campground, bathrooms are clean but dated, first come first serve for the sites.
95 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds near Orangeburg, New York range from developed state park facilities to more rustic camping areas within an hour's drive of New York City. Harriman State Park, located just minutes from Orangeburg, features multiple camping options including Beaver Pond Campground and Sebago Cabin Camp with accommodations for tents, RVs, and cabin rentals. The proximity to New York City makes these campgrounds popular weekend destinations, while still offering natural settings with lake access and wooded surroundings. Several campgrounds in the area support both traditional tent camping and RV sites with various hookup options, providing flexibility for different camping styles.
Many campgrounds in the region require reservations, particularly during peak summer months when facilities fill quickly. Access to most developed campgrounds involves paved roads suitable for passenger vehicles and RVs, though some sites may have limited parking. "Weekends - this park is FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!" noted one camper about Fahnestock State Park. The camping season generally runs from April through October, with some facilities like Croton Point Park remaining open year-round. Weather conditions vary significantly with hot, humid summers and occasional severe storms, while spring and fall offer more moderate temperatures ideal for camping. Cell service is generally available throughout the region but may be limited in more remote camping areas.
Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews from visitors to the area, with lakes and rivers providing scenic backdrops and recreational opportunities. Campers particularly appreciate sites at Croton Point Park, which one visitor described as "a gorgeous camping ground right on the Hudson with beach and trails." Privacy varies considerably between campgrounds, with some offering well-separated sites while others feature more communal layouts. Campgrounds closer to major highways may experience noise, as noted in reviews of Cheesequake State Park where highway sounds are audible despite tree buffers. Wildlife encounters, especially with raccoons and deer, are commonly reported at several campgrounds, and campers are advised to properly secure food. Fire rings are standard at most developed sites, though some campgrounds have restrictions on open fires or require campers to bring their own portable fire pits.
"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."
from $21 - $24 / night
Check Availability"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!"
from $30 - $60 / night
Check Availability"This was beautiful campground with an even nicer lake. You are able to do a hike around the lake."
"Great trails to hike for novices looking to branch out but not too large that you'll be lost forever lol highly recommend and can't do so enough 👍🏽"
"It is a step up from cabin camping. They also have a beach behind it."
"This place is only an hour away from NYC with so much to do and see. These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge."
from $130 / night
Check Availability"When you are camping with a large group of friends and don't all have access to a car, this is the perfect spot."
"We were right next to the entrance for hiking trails which was convenient. The facilities are a bit of a walk, but that means it is spread out and there's plenty of room to relax and have fun."
from $17 / night
Check Availability"Very plain & functional, no frills but right on the harbor & on the very edge of Jersey City, close to a ferry & the train that takes u across to New York City."
"Very easy to hop on transit to get to New York City. People were friendly."
from $145 - $180 / night
Check Availability"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."
"The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience. The staff is friendly as well"
from $45 - $55 / night
Check Availability"One rustic place with many hiking trails to choose from. Camp also provides trucking of gear weather permitting. No vehicles allowed to drive through camp. Trading Post for treats and other items."
"Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions"
from $5 - $200 / night
Check Availability"Suffern-Bear Mountain from Gate Hill Road is a high difficulty 15 mile out and back trail. At one point of the trail is a very difficult, but doable, rock scramble up the side of the mountain."












Nice campground, bathrooms are clean but dated, first come first serve for the sites.
I'll start by saying this is a site-specific review (C20). I booked using Campspot and didn't select my own site but put in the criteria for my rig (30ft TT plus truck) and got a 50A back-in spot. The site was big but abnormal. Between the picnic table placement and the trees, I ended up right around 50ft from the electric and water, and the water spigot was so low I could barely put on my camco filter. With the uneven dirt roads, I had to unhitch with my truck in a gigantic puddle (lol). The site was otherwise fine aside from my gate code not working on Day 2. As for the campground as a whole, I thought it was pretty unique place by the river that offered several good amenities and activities, like downstream river tubing, an arcade, bathroom/shower facilities, a small store, little trails, and more. I would say this place borders the more primitive side.
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.
Past reviews has mentioned that the office seems to be closed often, while I found that to be true I had no reason to contact anyone. This is definitely one of the cleanest quiets site I’ve ever visited
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
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!
This area seems to be devoid of campgrounds except for this one. It’s basically just a large parking lot with hook ups. Completely open, which is great for Starlink. Bathrooms were slightly above average; fairly clean and places to hang clothes for your shower. Has a laundry but be sure to bring quarters. It is about 100 yards from the interstate so you’ll get a lot of noise and diesel exhaust fumes.
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.
We reserved for a day. Very bad service. The river is super dirty and they did not even clean the trash cans. Besides, the fire ring has no grill cooking grate, so if you don’t bring your own NO GRILLING. Ryan was the person in front that took care of us, he was rude, my kids felt weird because he was not welcoming at all. Also, we try to ask for a partial refund since we did not felt comfortable since the beginning, and they said NO. We have experience camping, but this one was simply THE WORST. We lost the money but we won’t put our kids in a difficult situation. Thanks.
Camping spots near Orangeburg, New York offer diverse options within the Ramapo Mountains, where elevations range from 400 to 1,200 feet. The region features densely wooded sites amid oak, maple, and pine forests with granite bedrock outcroppings. Most camping areas sit within 40 miles of Orangeburg, providing campsites that range from basic tent platforms to full-service cabins with varying levels of amenities.
Hiking trails for all levels: At Clarence Fahnestock State Park, visitors can access multiple trail systems that connect to surrounding wilderness areas. "There are over 40 miles of trails in this area. Would definitely recommend for those who want to camp near NYC but not drive too far," notes a camper who visited Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.
Swimming in natural lakes: Several campgrounds feature lake access for summer recreation. "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," explains a visitor to Croton Point Park. Swimming areas typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day with lifeguards.
Winter camping options: Some camping areas remain accessible year-round, including Ward Pound Ridge Reservation which maintains sites through winter. "Ive been coming here for years. They have great sights and are open all year round. Ive stayed in hammocks, tents, leantos, and even did a good share of car camping," reports one camper.
Outdoor skill workshops: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center offers guided programs for wilderness skills and outdoor recreation. "They offer a meal plan (Option for breakfast, lunch, dinner) that you can get at their dining hall and I HIGHLY recommend that option. Worth the added cost," notes a visitor who appreciated the educational opportunities.
Platform tent sites: Elevated wooden platforms at several campgrounds provide dry camping surfaces in all weather conditions. "Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained or if you are expecting rain during your stay," explains a visitor to Beaver Pond Campground. These platforms typically measure 12'x12' and accommodate standard tents.
Rustic cabins without crowds: Sebago Cabin Camp offers basic accommodations with some modern amenities. "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. Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING," reports one visitor who enjoyed the disconnected experience.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple camping areas provide chances to observe native animals. "There is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night," mentions one camper at Croton Point Park, while another notes, "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night."
Off-season tranquility: Many campgrounds become significantly quieter outside summer months. "We stayed here on a Thursday night in September prior to taking off backpacking. The campground was clean and quiet. Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great," explains a Beaver Pond camper.
Bear activity protocols: Areas within Harriman State Park require particular attention to food storage. "'Welcome to Bear Mountain' grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He is in his ranger hut, checking in the late evening arrivals to the campground... and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area. I mean, we are in Bear Mountain, what do you expect?!?" describes one visitor.
Campsite spacing variations: Privacy levels differ significantly between camping areas and individual sites. "The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. You definitely feel like you have your own space and are not camping on top of your neighbor," reports one camper, while another mentions that at Camp Glen Gray, "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails."
Reservation deadlines: Many campgrounds require advance bookings, especially for weekends. At Sebago Cabin Camp, cabins often fill months in advance for summer weekends. One visitor notes these accommodations offer "a full fridge and double hot plate outside a fire pit and grill with table," making them popular options.
Noise levels vary by location: Some campgrounds experience significant ambient noise. "The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm. Great site for a party, try to stay away from this end of the site or choose a site away from other bookings if you'd like quiet," advises a Croton Point Park visitor.
Playground access: Camp Glen Gray provides dedicated play areas for children. "Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions," notes one family that visited regularly. Most family-oriented campgrounds maintain play equipment within walking distance of campsites.
Beach facilities: Several locations offer swimming areas with amenities for children. "Clean park with a place to swim but only within buoys and when a life guard is present," explains a visitor to Croton Point Park. Lifeguarded beaches typically operate from 10am-6pm during summer months.
Camp programs for children: Harriman State Park offers scheduled activities during peak season. "They do big bon fire on Saturday very kid friendly ranger Joe is good with the kids," shares a visitor who enjoyed the organized events at Sebago Cabin Camp. Weekend programming often includes nature walks and outdoor skill building.
Short hiking distances: Family-friendly trails connect many camping areas. "Short distance from the NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," reports a parent who visited Beaver Pond Campground with children, appreciating the connectivity and facilities.
Limited RV hookups: Most campgrounds offer only partial hookups. "We had a loosely defined gravel pad that was level. All sites appeared level. The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together," reports a visitor to Croton Point Park who stayed in an RV.
Size restrictions: Many camping areas cannot accommodate large recreational vehicles. "Expect to pay pretty good to be here, but from here you can pretty much easily get anywhere in NYC. Service is great and friendly," notes a visitor to Liberty Harbor RV Park, which allows larger vehicles but at premium rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Orangeburg, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, Orangeburg, NY offers a wide range of camping options, with 95 campgrounds and RV parks near Orangeburg, NY and 3 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Orangeburg, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Orangeburg, NY is Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park with a 4.2-star rating from 41 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Orangeburg, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Orangeburg, NY.
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