Best Tent Camping near Port Jervis, NY
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area offers several tent camping options near Port Jervis, New York, including Namanock Island, which is only accessible by water and features primitive tent sites. Port Jervis Elks Brox Hiker/Biker Campground provides tent camping within city limits, while Steam Mill Campground in nearby New Jersey offers drive-in tent sites with basic amenities. These established campgrounds serve as gateways to the region's extensive trail networks and waterways.
Most tent sites in the area feature fire rings and some form of toilet facilities, though amenities vary significantly between locations. At Namanock Island, campers must pack in all supplies and pack out all waste, as these are true primitive sites with only basic fire rings and primitive toilets. Steam Mill Campground provides drinking water, picnic tables, and trash disposal, making it more suitable for those seeking a balance between backcountry and developed camping. Bear activity is common throughout the region, so proper food storage is essential at all tent camping locations. Many sites operate seasonally, with Steam Mill Campground open from April through October.
The tent camping experience in this region offers exceptional access to natural features and recreational opportunities. Backcountry tent sites on Namanock Island provide complete seclusion, with one camper noting that "you totally feel that your party is alone out on the river, the entire world is yours and yours alone." Walk-in tent sites at several locations offer more privacy than drive-in options, though they require carrying gear from parking areas. Many tent campers use these sites as bases for day hikes on the Appalachian Trail or for multi-day paddling trips along the Delaware River. The region's diverse terrain allows tent campers to choose between riverside locations, forested settings, or more elevated sites with mountain views depending on their preferences.