Tent campsites near Peekskill, New York range from primitive sites requiring challenging hikes to more accessible options with basic amenities. The region sits within the Hudson Highlands, with elevations reaching 1,000 feet above sea level in areas like Ward Pound Ridge Reservation. Winter camping is available at select locations, though water systems are typically winterized from November through April.
What to do
Swim at designated beaches: Croton Point Park offers swimming in the Hudson River with lifeguards present during summer months. According to a visitor, there's "a private beach which is opened from Wednesday to the weekend with life guards on duty."
Explore extensive trail networks: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation features over 40 miles of trails through varied terrain. A camper noted, "The best part of this campsite are the endless trails in the area. I believe there are over 40 miles of trails in this region."
Paddle on secluded lakes: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center offers canoe rentals for exploring their peaceful lake. One visitor shared, "You can rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity."
Attend seasonal events: During October, camping near Sleepy Hollow offers Halloween-themed activities. A camper at Croton Point Park reported, "We came in October to celebrate Halloween in sleepy hollow! This is a great campsite and reasonably priced."
What campers like
Proximity to NYC: Most camping sites around Peekskill sit within 30-90 minutes of New York City. A camper at Mountain Lakes Park commented, "Mountain Lakes park is a great place to camp within driving distance from NYC."
Shelter options for weather protection: Several campgrounds offer three-sided lean-tos or platform tents. A Ward Pound Ridge visitor shared, "The shelters are great for people who want to camp and not have to worry about unplanned weather."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campsites feature resident wildlife. At The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, a visitor noted, "The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio."
Public transportation access: Some campgrounds offer shuttle services from nearby train stations. According to a camper, "This campsite is accessible by public transportation. There is a shuttle run by the campsite to and from Tuxedo Park Train Station."
What you should know
Reservation processes vary significantly: Sebago Cabin Camp and other Harriman State Park facilities have online reservation systems, while Ward Pound Ridge requires in-person booking. A camper noted, "The one downside is that you need to book in person but it can be done well in advance if need be."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby infrastructure. At Croton Point Park, a camper reported, "Only down side is there is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night."
Wildlife precautions required: Proper food storage is essential at all sites. A Croton Point visitor advised, "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night."
Varying rule strictness: Campgrounds have different enforcement approaches. One camper observed at Croton Point Park, "Regular patrols being made day and night, by both the Park Rangers and what appears to be general park staff members, all looking to see if you or your family might be doing something outside of the guidelines."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds and activities: Croton Point Park offers family-friendly amenities including playgrounds. A visitor mentioned, "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper."
Consider rustic cabins for first-timers: Sebago Cabin Camp provides a comfortable introduction to outdoor experiences. According to a review, "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."
Test with short trips first: Several campgrounds work well for introducing children to camping. One parent shared, "I took my 5 year old-son and wife, all of us first time campers. This place was great. The site was very nice, all the people friendly and area beautiful."
Check bathroom proximity: Facilities vary widely between sites. At Ward Pound Ridge, a camper noted, "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."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Campgaw Mountain Reservation and most sites near Peekskill offer few amenities for RVs. A visitor observed, "Campgaw doesn't seem to offer much in terms of a camping experience. The sites themselves are fairly close to the road."
Consider levelness for comfort: Many campsites in the region have uneven terrain. At Wawayanda State Park, a camper reported, "Site #3 is on a hill which doesn't make for a comfortable night of sleep."
Check site dimensions before booking: Sites vary significantly in size and accessibility. A visitor to Croton Point Park noted, "The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together."
Be prepared for primitive conditions: Most RV sites in the region have minimal amenities. One camper at Croton Point Park advised, "Both the tenting section and RV sites are each very clustered together, and quite crowded."
