Tent camping sites near Roosevelt, New York provide access to diverse landscapes including coastal dunes, forested trails, and riverside settings. Most campgrounds are within a 90-minute drive of Roosevelt, with many accessible by public transportation for those without vehicles. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with higher humidity near coastal sites.
What to do
Hiking trails accessible from camp: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers over 40 miles of trails directly from campsites. A camper noted, "There are endless trails in the area. 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."
Swimming in lakes: Mountain Lakes Park, as the name suggests, contains several lakes for swimming and recreation. According to reviews, "The area, as the name implies, is home to several lakes which can be used for various recreational purposes. There are also many hikes which can be trekked straight from the campgrounds."
Beach access: At Watch Hill Fire Island Campground, camping spots are set behind protective dunes with direct beach access. A visitor explained, "You can get a permit to backcountry camp instead of reserving a designated campground spot. Just walk down to the beach after check-in and walk east until you see a pole with a tent symbol on it."
Stargazing opportunities: At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, open fields provide excellent stargazing spots. One camper shared, "There's elevation gain, creeks, and open fields for stargazing. You have the options of a lean to here."
What campers like
Unique lavender field setting: Pleasant Valley Lavender offers peaceful tent camping near fragrant lavender fields. As one camper shared, "So pleasant to sleep near the blooming fields. Campsite is tucked in the woods. Tent camping in peace and quiet with easy access to major roads and highways to explore central NJ."
Quiet, spacious sites: At Battle Row Campground, tent sites are set away from RV areas. A recent visitor explained, "I have lived 6 miles from this campground for the last 20 years and never knew they had tent sites. 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."
Proximity to NYC: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center provides tent platforms and is accessible by public transportation. As one reviewer noted, "This campsite is accessible by public transportation. There is a shuttle run by the campsite to and from Tuxedo Park Train Station (reservations on shuttle required)."
Beach camping options: Watch Hill Fire Island Campground lets campers set up directly behind beach dunes. A camper shared, "After that you can choose where you want to set up camp. There are many spots along the dunes and allows to really space out from other campers. It felt like we had the entire beach to ourselves."
What you should know
Insect preparation essential: Coastal campgrounds like Watch Hill can have significant insect issues. A camper warned, "It was absolutely gorgeous, don't get me wrong. However, it was nearly impossible to enjoy ourselves because we were getting attacked by mosquitoes and horseflies the entire weekend. Even with the bug spray, the relief didn't last long."
Fire restrictions vary: Battle Row Campground has specific fire container requirements. According to reviews, "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. The sites all have a table and raised BBQ pit for cooking only."
Food storage concerns: At Croton Point Park, raccoons are an issue. A camper 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. Fire is allowed and has no issues of mosquitoes."
Train noise at some locations: Croton Point Park has nearby train operations. One review mentioned, "Only down side is there is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Croton Point Park offers family-friendly facilities. A camper reported, "Beautiful campsite with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper."
Ranger programs: Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area provides ranger-led activities. According to visitors, "The history housed on this base, with a hanger were full of old planes where dedicated veterans worked diligently to restore them, provided us up close inspection of multiple planes, including a mini-sized glider which we were granted personal access to get into."
Cabin options for mixed comfort levels: Sebago Cabin Camp offers rustic cabins for families not ready for full tent camping. A camper explained, "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."
Off-season visits: For families seeking the best tent camping near Roosevelt, New York with fewer crowds, consider visiting Watch Hill Fire Island after Labor Day. One camper noted, "It felt like we had the entire beach to ourselves because there was no one else even close to around us, we went the weekend after labor day."
Tips for RVers
Limited RV options: Sebago Cabin Camp doesn't accommodate RVs but offers alternatives. A visitor clarified, "No RV sites a step up from tent camping. They have rustic cabins. These do not have plumbing or heat. It is a step up from cabin camping. They also have a beach behind it."
Parking restrictions: Many campgrounds near Roosevelt have limited vehicle access to camping areas. At Sandy Hook, "No cars are permitted in the campground, so you will have to lug your gear to your spot so choose wisely my friends!"
Water and electric at Battle Row: Battle Row Campground provides utilities for RVs separate from tent areas. A reviewer 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!"
