Tent camping near Shrub Oak, New York extends beyond established campgrounds into areas featuring primitive sites and rustic cabins. Located in Westchester County with elevations ranging from 400-900 feet, the region experiences moderate rainfall averaging 45 inches annually. Seasonal considerations impact camping conditions, with summer temperatures typically reaching 80-85°F during day and dropping to 60-65°F at night.
What to do
Lakeside activities: At Croton Point Park, campers have access to swimming areas with designated boundaries. "There is a gorgeous scenery along the river and a private beach which is opened from Wednesday to the weekend with life guards on duty," notes one visitor to Croton Point Park.
Rock climbing access: The Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground provides direct access to world-class climbing areas. "This is the closest legal camping option to the trapps/mohonk preserve," according to a reviewer at Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground, which offers discounts for American Alpine Club or Mohonk Preserve members.
Seasonal festivities: Fall camping offers proximity to Halloween events. "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!" reports a Croton Point Park camper.
What campers like
Shelter options: Lean-to structures provide weather protection alternatives to tents. "The shelters are great for people who want to camp and not have to worry about unplanned weather," shares a visitor to Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, adding that "the best part of this campsite are the endless trails in the area."
Wildlife viewing: Campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local fauna. "On the bright side, there are lots of bunnies!" notes one Croton Point Park camper, while another mentions "watching beavers from the dining hall patio" at The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
Campsite spacing: Site separation varies significantly between locations. At Mountain Lakes Park, a reviewer mentions the quality of the campsite layout: "A gorgeous piece of land that contains lakes, a lookout and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County."
What you should know
Reservation processes: Systems vary between locations and often cannot be done online. "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," according to a Sebago Cabin Camp visitor.
Noise considerations: Train sounds can affect sleeping at certain campgrounds. "Only down side is there is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night," reports a Croton Point Park reviewer.
Food storage requirements: Wildlife in the area necessitates proper precautions. "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night," warns a Croton Point Park camper.
Tips for camping with families
First-time camper friendly: Several sites accommodate beginners well. "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," shares a Croton Point Park visitor.
Kid-appropriate amenities: Look for sites with convenient facilities. "The new docks around the swimming area create a safer swimming experience for even the most inexperienced swimmers, allowing them safe and obvious perimeters," notes a visitor to Lake Frederick Outdoor Recreation Area.
Educational opportunities: Some locations offer learning experiences for children. "The Trailside Nature Museum is also fun for the kids," mentions a Ward Pound Ridge Reservation camper, providing an activity option during inclement weather.
Tips for RVers
Limited big rig access: Most tent camping areas near Shrub Oak have restrictions for larger vehicles. "No RV and campers allowed. The parking for your car is 1/4 mile away but they allow you to unload and give you a wagon to take stuff to your site," explains a camper at The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
Primitive alternatives: For those wanting a break from RV camping, several locations offer tent sites with varying levels of amenities. "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," describes a visitor to Sebago Cabin Camp.
Limited hookup options: RV services are minimal in this region. "A county park with a mix of w/e (6 sites) and FHU sites plus about a dozen tent sites," notes a Croton Point Park reviewer, indicating the limited availability of hookup sites compared to tent-only areas.
