Tent camping near Pelham, New York offers several options within Westchester County and neighboring areas, with elevations ranging from sea level to 1,289 feet at Mount Bailey. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F and spring/fall offering cooler weather in the 50-70°F range. Camping areas spread across county parks and state lands provide both developed sites with amenities and more rustic experiences.
What to do
Hiking through varied terrain: At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, visitors can explore over 40 miles of marked trails. Camper Ethan K. noted, "This is a great place for camping. The shelters are great for people who want to camp and not have to worry about unplanned weather. The best part of this campsite are the endless trails in the area."
Water activities at Croton Point: Swimming in the Hudson River is available during summer months at designated areas. One visitor mentioned, "Oh...and did i say, gorgeous scenery along the river and a private beach which is opened from Wednesday to the weekend with life guards on duty!"
Fall camping for foliage views: Explore seasonal camping options near Sebago Cabin Camp in Harriman State Park. One camper, Wendy C., shared her experience: "We came in October to celebrate Halloween in sleepy hollow! This is a great campsite and reasonably priced. Was close to bear mountains state part and the train station is right there!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campsites offer good separation between camping areas. At Battle Row Campground, a camper noted, "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!"
Year-round accessibility: Several camping locations maintain availability throughout different seasons. At The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, campers enjoy platform tents with easy access from New York City. One visitor shared: "This campsite is accessible by public transportation. There is a shuttle run by the campsite to and from Tuxedo Park Train Station."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites offer chances to see local animals. Thomas M. described his experience: "The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio."
What you should know
Campsite reservation systems vary: Some parks require in-person booking while others allow phone or online reservations. At Mountain Lakes Park, campers can rent yurts as alternative accommodations. Ethan K. mentioned, "A fun option available at Mountain lakes is to rent a yurt to camp in. The area, as the name implies, is home to several lakes which can be used for various recreational purposes."
Bathroom and shower facilities: Availability ranges from full facilities to primitive conditions. At Croton Point Park, Lee D. noted, "Bath/Shower house: Clean but a bit dated. No shelves or hooks for toiletries. I was surprised the door was left open all night long."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience more noise than others. Jonathan C. reported about 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 or choose a site away from other bookings if you'd like quite."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. Michael M. highlighted Battle Row's family features: "The park is clean the bathrooms are well maintained and there is a playground for the kids. Each site is set back off a common area so there is plenty of privacy."
Beginner-friendly locations: First-time campers should consider sites with good amenities. Kevin G. shared about Croton Point Park: "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."
Educational opportunities: Look for parks with nature programs. At Sebago Cabin Camp, Sara P. mentioned: "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."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent camping areas near Pelham offer basic or no hookups. At Sandy Hook, Craig M. explains the limitations: "The campground is rustic with no showers or electricity. Tenting only, with all gear needing to be carried to the site. No vehicles allowed at the campsite."
Parking considerations: Several campgrounds require campers to park away from their sites. Andrew A. noted about Croton Point Park: "It's a good park/camp for groups. They have cabins and RV sites and now that the Tapan Zee bridge work is done most of them are now open again as the bridge workers have moved out."
Weather preparation: The region experiences variable weather conditions. Paul K. recommended: "In terms of the actual camping conditions both the tenting section and RV sites are each very clustered together, and quite crowded, with regular patrols being made day and night."
