Tent camping near St. James, New York offers options within Nassau and Westchester counties, with most sites located along bodies of water like the Hudson River or Fire Island National Seashore. The region features a mix of coastal and woodland camping environments, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak season. Most campgrounds require advance booking, with reservation windows opening 3-6 months ahead for summer weekends.
What to do
Beach activities at Fire Island National Seashore: The western camping areas provide secluded beach access for swimming and sunbathing. "Take the ferry over across the bay to this quiet little gem on Long Island. Amazing, your own ocean and beach! You are not quite roughing it as there are showers and running water at the Watch Hill Fire Island Campground," explains a camper.
Hiking through woodland trails: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers extensive trail networks. "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," notes one visitor about Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.
Seasonal activities: Fall camping offers unique experiences. "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!" shares a camper about Croton Point Park.
What campers like
Privacy and space: Tent sites at certain campgrounds offer good separation from other campers. "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," mentions a visitor about Battle Row Campground.
Unique shelter options: Some locations provide alternatives to traditional tenting. "The shelters are great for people who want to camp and not have to worry about unplanned weather," notes a camper about Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.
Natural water features: Many campers appreciate the water access. "Beautiful location steps away from the beach. Listen to the waves crashing as you sleep and stargaze over the clear ocean," describes a visitor at Fire Island National Seashore.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance planning. "No 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," advises a camper about Mountain Lakes Park.
Insect preparation: Multiple campgrounds report significant insect activity. "Take the good stuff. There are park rangers on site and have excellent programs for kids," warns a visitor about mosquitoes at Watch Hill.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby infrastructure. "Only down side is there is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night," notes a camper about Croton Point Park.
Fire regulations: Fire rules vary significantly between sites. "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," explains a visitor about Battle Row Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "The playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit," notes a camper about Battle Row Campground.
Educational programs: Some locations provide ranger-led activities. "Favorite place ever. You can get there by ferry. Very quiet and comfortable. Birdsong in the morning and the sound of the waves. There are showers, toilets and a café," shares a visitor about Croton Point Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites offer chances to see local animals. "There are lots of bunnies!" mentions a camper about Croton Point Park.
Site selection for families: Consider proximity to facilities. "The sites are much farther away from the comfort stations than most campgrounds we have been to. But there are port-a-potties very close to the sites, which is very important when you have young kids," advises a camper about Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Full-service RV sites are limited in the St. James area. "A county park with a mix of w/e (6 sites) and FHU sites plus about a dozen tent sites near a capped dump!" explains an RVer about Croton Point Park.
Site configuration challenges: Some campgrounds have unusual layouts. "The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together," notes a visitor at Hidden Lake Farm.
Reservation processes: Each campground has different booking systems. "The reservation process is a bit wonky. You need to call (no online reservations) and then wait for an e-mail, but the e-mail does not tell you your assigned site; you have to wait until you check in to find out your site," shares an RVer about Croton Point Park.
