Primitive camping areas around Ossining, New York offer access to the lower Hudson Valley's diverse landscape of rolling hills and mixed deciduous forest. The region sits at elevations ranging from 200-1,000 feet, creating varied terrain for tent campers. Most primitive sites remain accessible from April through November, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Night sky viewing: At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, tent campers can access open fields ideal for stargazing. "There's elevation gain, creeks, and open fields for stargazing. You have the options of a lean to here," notes camper Seth K.
Water activities: Swimming in the lakes at Harriman State Park provides refreshing summer recreation. "This was beautiful campground with an even nicer lake. You are able to do a hike around the lake," writes Ethan K. about The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
Hiking from camp: Multiple trail networks connect directly to camping areas. "There are also many hikes which can be trekked straight from the campgrounds which is always a huge plus in my mind," reports a camper at Mountain Lakes Park, where trails lead to Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County.
Rock scrambling: Advanced hikers can tackle challenging terrain at primitive sites. The Stonetown Circular trail features "a fairly difficult rock scramble" according to camper reviews, with tent sites positioned at strategic points along the 11-mile route.
What campers like
Community gatherings: Sebago Cabin Camp hosts organized activities for tent campers. "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.
Transportation options: Some campgrounds offer shuttle services from public transportation. "This campsite is accessible by public transportation. There is a shuttle run by the campsite to and from Tuxedo Park Train Station (reservations on shuttle required)," notes Ilya F. about Harriman Outdoor Center.
Wildlife watching: The region supports diverse animal populations observable from camps. "The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio," reports a camper at Harriman.
Camp infrastructure: At Ward Pound Ridge, "The sites are much farther away from the comfort stations than most campgrounds we have been to. But there are port-a-potties very close to the sites, which is very important when you have young kids," explains Ming R.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Croton Point Park uses a complex booking process. "The reservation process is a bit wonky. You need to call (no online reservations) and then wait for an e-mail, but the e-mail does not tell you your assigned site; you have to wait until you check in," reports Lee D.
Site selection important: At Ward Pound Ridge, "The camping sites are very different so it's useful to go in person and select the area," advises Susana M. Some campers recommend calling ahead and arriving at 9am when offices open to secure preferred sites.
Rules and regulations: Campgrounds near urban areas often have strict guidelines. Croton Point has "all manner of restrictions on how you can camp, where you can camp, what equipment can be used," according to Paul K., who notes "regular patrols being made day and night."
Supply preparation: Most primitive sites require bringing all necessities. "No facilities that I can think of, but there are a few lean-to's scattered off the looping road," notes Ben H. about Mountain Lakes Park.
Tips for camping with families
Noise considerations: Select sites based on likely noise levels. At Croton Point Park, "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," advises Jonathan C.
First-time camping spots: Mountain Lakes Park provides yurts for families new to camping. "Mountain Lakes park is a great place to camp within driving distance from NYC. A fun option available at Mountain lakes is to rent a yurt to camp in," explains Ethan K.
Wildlife protection: Raccoons frequently raid camps with improper food storage. "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night," warns Anil S.
Equipment transport: When car access is limited, look for sites with gear transport options. "The parking for your car is 1/4 mile away but they allow you to unload and give you a wagon to take stuff to your site," explains Thomas M. about Harriman.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most camping areas near Ossining restrict large RVs. The Campgaw Mountain Reservation sites are "fairly close to the road" according to Jake R., making them accessible but not secluded.
Seasonal availability: RV sites typically remain open longer than tent-only areas. "We've spent years here," notes Heather M. about Lake Frederick, where the campsites give "a true camping experience."
Privacy factors: RV sites often offer less seclusion than tent areas. "The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together," reports Lee D.
Utility connections: Few campgrounds offer full hookups. Most provide water and electric only, with Croton Point Park offering "a mix of w/e (6 sites) and FHU sites" according to reviewer assessments.
