Camping spots near Pelham, New York provide outdoor experiences within the Hudson Valley region, where elevations range from sea level to approximately 1,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically average 70-85°F while fall camping season brings 45-65°F temperatures and vibrant foliage. RV and tent sites operate under different seasonal schedules, with most tent-only options closing by late October.
What to do
Beach access and swimming: Nickerson Beach Park Campground offers direct beach access for swimming during summer months. "Small campground. Sites very close to one another. Close to ferry for downtown and Statue of Liberty. People are very nice and accommodating," notes one visitor to Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Hiking trails: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation features over 40 miles of trails suitable for various skill levels. As one camper states, "This is a great local spot that I love to go to get out of the city for a little bit. There's elevation gain, creeks, and open fields for stargazing."
Water activities: Sebago Cabin Camp provides lake access for swimming and paddling. A visitor reported, "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day." Canoe rentals are available at some locations during peak season.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple camping areas offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. At Croton Point Park, campers report seeing rabbits throughout the grounds. The campground sits on a peninsula extending into the Hudson River, creating diverse habitats.
What campers like
Affordable options: Several campgrounds offer budget-friendly rates. At Beaver Pond Campground, a camper noted, "This is an off-grid camping experience. You can use your generator at certain hours. They have a beach. Their staff is friendly. I love going here. Camping for just $15."
Platform camping: Many sites feature raised wooden platforms for tents. "The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. You definitely feel like you have your own space and are not camping on top of your neighbor. Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained," explains one visitor.
Proximity to NYC: The camping locations near Pelham provide quick access to urban amenities while offering natural settings. A visitor to Skyline RV Camp mentions, "This is an off-grid camping experience. You can use your generator at certain hours. They have a beach. Their staff is friendly."
Clean facilities: Battle Row Campground maintains well-kept facilities. One camper shares, "This was my first time camping here and I was amazed at how clean the sites were & quiet the campground was. The camp office workers are SO friendly and helpful. The sites have provided electric and water and are kept so clean."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during summer and fall weekends. At Battle Row, reservations must be made directly through the campground office. Walk-up availability is extremely limited from May through September.
Transportation challenges: Some campgrounds have access limitations. For RVs heading to Liberty Harbor RV Park, note this advice: "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze."
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience ambient noise. At Croton Point Park, a camper observed, "Only down side is there is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night."
Limited amenities: Some campgrounds offer minimal facilities. A visitor to Battle Row Campground reported, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. A visitor to Nickerson Beach Park Campground shared, "Allows dogs, children's playground, beach, programs like movie nights throughout the summer."
Educational opportunities: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers nature programming. "The Trailside Nature Museum is also fun for the kids," notes one reviewer. Programs typically run weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Safety considerations: Wildlife encounters require preparation. At Beaver Pond Campground, a camper advises, "The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping."
Cell service access: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Sebago Cabin Camp, a visitor found, "Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING." Parents should check coverage maps if emergency communication is important.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Liberty Harbor RV Park, an experienced RVer suggests, "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig."
Electric hookup availability: Electrical service varies between locations. At Croton Point Park, only certain sites have 30-amp service, and a camper notes the campground has "electric hookups, NO fifty-amp hookups, thirty-amp hookups."
Alternative transportation options: Public transit connections make city access convenient from several campgrounds. A Liberty Harbor visitor explains, "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8 [blocks away]."
Dump station access: Limited dump facilities exist near Pelham. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, a camper observed, "There is a dump station, but not the easiest to use."
