Tent camping near Tarrytown, New York offers access to multiple woodland settings throughout the Lower Hudson Valley region. Campsites in this area range from 200 to 1,400 feet in elevation, with summer temperatures typically averaging 75-85°F during the day and 55-65°F at night. Most tent sites require campers to pack out all trash, as garbage service isn't provided at primitive locations.
What to do
Swimming in mountain lakes: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center features a peaceful lake environment perfect for cooling off after hiking. One camper noted, "This was beautiful campground with an even nicer lake. You are able to do a hike around the lake." The center allows canoe rentals for afternoon activities on the water.
Hiking to primitive sites: Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail offers challenging hiking with camping opportunities along the route. This trail includes a difficult rock scramble but rewards with panoramic views. A reviewer warns about the challenging terrain: "The most difficult part about camping in this location is that you will have to carry your supplies up the mountain to the site."
Stargazing in open fields: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation has open areas away from light pollution where night sky observation is possible. A camper mentioned, "There's elevation gain, creeks, and open fields for stargazing." The reservation closes its gates at night, ensuring minimal disturbances during evening hours.
What campers like
Private and spacious sites: Mountain Lakes Park offers generous camping areas with room to spread out. According to one camper, "Mountain Lakes park is a great place to camp within driving distance from NYC. A fun option available at Mountain lakes is to rent a yurt to camp in." The park contains several lakes accessible for recreation.
Wooded seclusion: Campgaw Mountain Reservation becomes quiet after sunset despite daytime popularity. A visitor observed, "Once the sun goes down, the campsite becomes a ghost town (except for the odd sheriff driving down the road)." This transition provides unexpected tranquility at night.
Clean facilities: Croton Point Park maintains well-kept amenities despite high usage. One visitor reported, "Bath/Shower house: Clean but a bit dated. No shelves or hooks for toiletries." The park enforces strict rules about site usage and equipment placement.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Tarrytown require advance booking, with some using different systems. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation requires in-person booking. A camper advised, "The one downside is that you need to book in person but it can be done well in advance if need be."
Noise considerations: Weekend camping may involve groups and sounds from nearby activities. At Croton Point Park, one visitor noted, "The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm."
Distance to bathrooms: At several locations, comfort stations are placed far from tent sites. A camper at Ward Pound Ridge mentioned, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer chances to spot local fauna. At Sebago Cabin Camp, children can participate in ranger-led activities. One parent shared, "Sebago cabins the way to get away and relax enjoy the lake you can go hiking they also have movie nights they do big bon on Saturday very kid friendly ranger Joe is with the kids."
Playground access: Several camping areas feature play equipment for younger children. A parent camping at Croton Point Park mentioned, "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper."
Food storage requirements: Animals may investigate improperly stored food. At Croton Point, a camper warned, "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV campers should research specific site dimensions before booking. At Croton Point Park, an RVer noted, "The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together. No one was in the tent sites, but they did have new picnic tables."
Electricity options: Power availability varies across campgrounds. Most primitive sites have no hookups, while established campgrounds offer limited electric service. A visitor to Sebago Cabins advised, "Ignore the hotplate and just cook on a fire out other outdoor set up."
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. A visitor to Mountain Lakes Park mentioned, "A dirt road loops through the property with trails off and through it." Larger RVs may struggle on narrow, winding park roads.
