Camping sites near Tarrytown, New York sit along the eastern shore of the Hudson River, with most locations under 800 feet in elevation. The region experiences mild winters and humid summers with temperatures averaging 85°F in July and August. Fall camping in October tends to be particularly comfortable with daytime temperatures in the 60s and minimal rainfall compared to spring months.
What to do
Beach access at Canopus Lake: Visit Fahnestock State Park, where "the park has a nice open beach on Canopus Lake with a concession area and bathhouse, which we found to be quite clean! They even have boat rentals - or you can bring your own boat to launch!" Fishing opportunities abound with "another lake and two ponds that our neighbor campers said were great for catching panfish - one fisherman said he had caught several bass weighing over 3 pounds."
Seasonal swimming options: At Sebago Cabin Camp, the swimming area changes seasonally. "Ignore the hotplate and just cook on a fire out other outdoor set up. Don't expect to swim on site- go to Lake Welch near by!" The nearby beach offers a more traditional swimming experience compared to smaller, restricted swimming areas.
Fall holiday activities: During October, campgrounds become bases for Halloween-themed activities. "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!" The proximity to Sleepy Hollow makes these stays especially popular during spooky season.
What campers like
Wilderness escape within 45 minutes: Campers appreciate the quick transition from urban to natural settings. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint. Free Hot showers in the bathrooms, with plenty of room to change," says one visitor to Beaver Pond Campground.
Waterfront camping options: Many campers enjoy sites with water views. At Croton Point Park, "This must be one of the most breathtaking camp grounds (family friendly) right on the Hudson. Tent sites are very private with some dirt roads to exit out but thats what make it unique experience!" The park includes "a private beach which is opened from Wednesday to the weekend with life guards on duty."
Varied terrain and site layouts: Each campsite offers unique positioning. "All sites were so different. There was a storm the night before our arrival date, all campers were evacuated and they did a fantastic job clearing all the debris and downed trees before our arrival. The camp areas were secluded if you wanted more private camping (also super unique layouts)."
What you should know
Weekend vs. weekday experience: Timing significantly impacts your experience. "Weekends - this park is FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!" Another camper notes, "Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great."
Wildlife management practices: Be aware that some parks manage local wildlife. At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, "the county government also allow bow-hunting of deer to control its population during the months of October to December." This affects trail accessibility during hunting season.
Varied site privacy levels: Site selection matters for privacy. "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." For more privacy, research specific site numbers before booking as "this is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds cater specifically to children. "Very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal." Another camper mentions, "There is a model airplane air field and a decent playground for young kids," making these locations suitable for entertaining children of various ages.
Cabin options for mixed camping experience: For families with members who prefer not to tent camp, cabins offer a compromise. "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day. We were able to rent a cabin which was equipped with an outside grill and picnic area. It is great if you are going with a group/family and people want to sleep inside a cabin as oppose to a tent outside."
Dog friendly campgrounds near Tarrytown: For families with four-legged members, select suitable sites. "Close to the city and civilization, yet large enough to have nice trails and creeks to feel away from it all. The camping sites are very different so it's useful to go in person and select the area. Parking is close, but some of the sites are also pretty close to each other so there is less privacy. It's a good site to do a quick camping trip. Dogs are welcome on a leash."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Many campgrounds offer partial hookups only. "Clean park with a place to swim but only within buoys and when a life guard is present. Only one or two bathrooms in the whole place so be prepared to go for a walk when you have to go." Water and electric are more common than full hookups in this region.
Extended stays possible: For longer RV vacations, several options exist. "Convenient for hiking and exploring, it's also only a 20 minute drive to a large mall in Rockaway." RV sites often provide more amenities than tent sites, making them suitable for stays of "a few nights or a couple of weeks" with "campsites [that] are paved and mostly level."
Preparation for bear encounters: RV campers still need wildlife 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." Another camper warns, "Welcome to Bear Mountain" grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He is in his ranger hut, checking in the late evening arrivals to the campground... He's nice, but you can tell he's given this welcome speech too many times to get overly excited about it."
