Tent campsites near Pawling, New York can be found in Westchester and Dutchess counties. The region sits at elevations ranging from 500-1,000 feet, with a climate that features four distinct seasons and average summer temperatures around 80°F. Winter camping opportunities exist at several sites including Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, which maintains year-round operations regardless of snowfall.
What to Do
Trail access from campsites: At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, over 40 miles of trails surround the camping areas. "I believe 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 camper Ethan K.
Winter activities: When snow accumulates, specific areas like Pell Hill at Ward Pound Ridge become popular for sledding. "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 Ming R.
Stargazing opportunities: Open fields at Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground provide clear night sky views. "There's elevation gain, creeks, and open fields for stargazing. You have the options of a lean to here," reports Seth K.
What Campers Like
Shelter camping options: Rather than standard tent sites, Ward Pound Ridge offers shelters for weather protection. "The shelters are great for people who want to camp and not have to worry about unplanned weather," writes Ethan K. about the reservation's lean-tos.
Proximity to NYC: Pawling area camping sites attract city dwellers looking for quick escapes. At Croton Point Park, located 30 miles southwest of Pawling, "this must be one of the most breathtaking camp grounds (family friendly) right on the Hudson," according to Anil S.
Site privacy variation: Tent camping locations offer different levels of seclusion. "Sites were relatively well spaced apart" at Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground according to Les R., while at Croton Point Park, "tent sites are very private with some dirt roads to exit out."
What You Should Know
Reservation processes: Most established campgrounds require advance planning. At The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, "you don't have to be a member to use the facility but you get better rates," explains Thomas M.
Limited amenities at dispersed sites: For primitive camping, expectations should be set accordingly. At Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed, "there are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it's quiet & off the beaten path," reports Dawn M.
Varying campfire regulations: Fire policies differ significantly between sites. While Ward Pound Ridge allows fires at individual sites, Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground has "one communal campfire. No rings at campsites," according to Cory D.
Food storage requirements: Bear activity necessitates proper precautions at many locations. At Samuel F. Pryor Shawangunk Gateway Campground, "there were bear lockers but I just cooked at the car in the parking lot," notes Emily M.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for sites with activities: Locations with diverse recreation options keep children engaged. At Croton Point Park, "there is a lodge and cabins close to the end of the point... they reminded me of places I used to take youth groups for weekend camps," observes Lee D.
Consider comfort stations: Bathroom proximity matters with young children. At Lake Minnewaska Picnic Area, "staff was nice and polite. But I thought the sites were on the smaller side and no fire is allowed," writes Priscilla M.
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer nature programs. Ward Pound Ridge features a "Trailside Nature Museum [that] is also fun for the kids," according to Ming R.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Full-service RV sites are scarce near Pawling. At Croton Point Park, there are "a mix of w/e (6 sites) and FHU sites plus about a dozen tent sites," explains Lee D., though these sites tend to be "close together."
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts campground operations differently for RVs than tents. At Ward Pound Ridge, "all of the shelters have fire pits and some have interior fireplaces," notes Paul R., making it viable for cold weather camping when RV sites might be closed.
Parking limitations: Many facilities restrict vehicle numbers. At Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, "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.
