Tent campsites near Pleasantville, New York range from primitive hike-in sites to developed platforms with various amenities. Located in the Hudson Valley region with elevations between 100-1,300 feet, camping options span across multiple county parks and state forests within 30 miles. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons experience cooler nights in the 40-50°F range.
What to do
Lakeside recreation: At The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, campers can enjoy the peaceful lake setting. According to one camper, "You can also rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity." The lake is home to wildlife including beavers that can be spotted from the dining hall patio.
Hiking trails: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers extensive trail networks with varied difficulty levels. As one reviewer noted, "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." The reservation accommodates various outdoor activities including horseback riding on designated trails.
Winter activities: Camping areas near Pleasantville offer year-round opportunities. One visitor mentioned that 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." During October through December, the county allows bow-hunting of deer to control the population.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Battle Row Campground offers tent sites with good separation. One camper stated, "Each site is set back off a common area so there is plenty of privacy. It's great if your local easy in and out." This layout creates a more secluded experience despite being in an established campground.
Communal activities: Seasonal programming enhances the camping experience at several locations. At Sebago Cabin Camp, a visitor noted they "do big bon 🔥 on Saturday very kid friendly ranger Joe is 👌 with the kids." Another camper mentioned "outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends" and "Karaoke nights" as available activities.
Natural surroundings: The area's wildlife adds to the camping experience. At Campgaw Mountain Reservation, one camper appreciated "sitting by the water" and noted how the campsite "becomes a ghost town" after sunset, providing solitude despite daytime activity on nearby hiking trails.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Each campground has different booking procedures. For Ward Pound Ridge, a camper explained "There is no phone or internet reservations and has to be made in person at the office. I would recommend call earlier and come in few minutes earlier to 9 am when the office opens to find the best spots."
Campfire restrictions: Fire regulations differ between sites. At Battle Row, "There are NO fire pits, you must bring your own. Fires are allowed but you must have a fire container or bucket for your fire off of the ground." Sites typically have a raised BBQ pit for cooking only.
Pack-in requirements: For Suffern-Bear Mountain from Gate Hill Road Primitive, preparation is essential. One hiker advised, "The most difficult part about camping in this location is that you will have to carry your supplies up the mountain to the site. I would advise packing light if planning on camping here."
Tips for camping with families
First-time camper friendly: Some campgrounds specifically accommodate those new to camping. At Croton Point Park, one visitor 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."
Accessible activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities designed for children. Sebago Cabin Camp offers structured programming where "they also have movie nights" and staff members who are good with children, making it "very kid friendly."
Public transportation options: For families without vehicles, certain campgrounds provide transit access. The AMC Harriman Outdoor Center is "accessible by public transportation. There is a shuttle run by the campsite to and from Tuxedo Park Train Station (reservations on shuttle required)."
Tips from RVers
Limited full hookup options: Most tent camping sites near Pleasantville offer minimal RV amenities. At Battle Row Campground, "There are lots of RVs but not close to tent sites" and basic facilities like "The water spigot and the gray-water dump are not right by the tent sites."
Platform camping alternatives: For RVers seeking a break from their vehicles, platform camping provides a hybrid option. At the AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, one camper mentioned, "I camped on one of the platforms, which was very nice and did not feel crowded even with other people on neighboring platforms." These platforms provide more structure than tent-only sites while still offering an outdoor experience.
Site selection considerations: Check accessibility before booking. In Ward Pound Ridge, "The sites are much farther away from the comfort stations than most campgrounds" but "there are port-a-potties very close to the sites, which is very important when you have young kids."
