Tent campsites near Warwick, New York sit within the Highlands region where elevations range from 400 to 1,500 feet. Summers see average temperatures between 70-85°F during day and 50-65°F at night, making tent camping comfortable with proper gear. Most camping areas in the region have rocky, uneven terrain requiring careful tent placement, with many sites situated near small streams or lakes.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Raymondskill Falls is approximately 10-15 minutes from Namanock Island. A camper noted, "If you paddle across the river from the site, it is only a 10-15 minute hike along the road on the Pennsylvania side of the river to reach Raymondskill Falls. A 'must-see' if your stopping here."
Kayaking and canoeing: The Delaware River provides multiple access points for paddling trips. At Namanock Island, one visitor shared, "Paid 20 for day and overnight parking at Milford beach. Paddle about 4 miles to the site 12, the first site on the right side of nomanock island." Consider river current strength when planning return trips.
Swimming in lakes: Several campgrounds offer lake swimming during summer months. At Sebago Cabin Camp, a camper stated, "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day." Lake Welch nearby was described as "phenomenal for easy nearly-beach like camping."
What campers like
Rustic cabin options: Several camping areas provide simple cabins for those who prefer not to tent camp. A visitor to Sebago described, "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."
Island camping experience: Namanock Island provides a unique camping experience on the Delaware River. One camper explained, "Let me say that of all the places I have ever camped, having an entire island to yourself is a feeling I have never experienced anywhere else."
Wildlife viewing: Camping areas around Warwick offer abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. A camper at Namanock Island reported, "Lots of peace and natural all around. Saw tons of bald eagles flying near the site and while paddles birds playing and baby geese with their mommas!"
Digital disconnection: Several sites offer a chance to fully unplug. A reviewer at The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center mentioned, "Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require phone reservations rather than online booking. A camper at Croton Point Park noted, "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."
Site privacy considerations: Privacy levels differ significantly between campgrounds. At Croton Point Park, a camper observed, "Campsites were side-by-side - no privacy from neighbors," while another mentioned tent sites were "spread out" with "very large" spaces between sites at different campgrounds.
Firewood availability: Some campgrounds sell firewood onsite, but others require bringing your own. A Namanock Island visitor suggested, "Definitely would stop at one of the many places along the way to buy fire wood."
Noise factors: Campgrounds closer to urban areas may experience noise. A Croton Point camper mentioned, "There is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night." Choose sites further from roads or facilities for quieter experiences.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer structured activities for children. At Moon Valley Campground, a visitor shared, "This was a great campsite nestled in the foothills of Northern NJ on the NY border. Small, clean with great views and great location for hiking, cruising etc."
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature playgrounds to keep children entertained. A camper at Croton Point Park noted, "There is a model airplane air field and a decent playground for young kids."
Wildlife education opportunities: Use animal sightings as learning moments for children. A visitor noted, "Stopping here is normally a very simple thing as most of the island has a 3-4 foot shore around it of river rock. This makes for an easy landing and unloading of boats." This provides opportunities to teach about river ecosystems.
Movie nights: Some campgrounds offer outdoor entertainment. At Wawayanda State Park Campground, activities include "outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many tent campsites near Warwick have uneven terrain. A camper at Wawayanda State Park noted, "Not very much completely level terrain but nothing you can't sleep on (that is it is a dirt/grass ground however not too level)."
Limited full hookup options: While some campgrounds offer electric hookups, full-service RV sites are limited. At Croton Point Park, "a mix of w/e (6 sites) and FHU sites plus about a dozen tent sites" are available, but reservations fill quickly during peak season.
Equipment restrictions: Some campgrounds have specific rules about RV types and equipment. A visitor noted many campgrounds maintain "endless guidelines, and restrictions" regarding "how you can camp, where you can camp, what equipment can be used."
