Tent campsites near Westbrookville, New York offer diverse overnight options within the forested terrain of the Shawangunk Mountains, where elevations range from 400 to 1,800 feet. The area features a mix of deciduous forest and rocky outcroppings with seasonal temperature variations that make spring and fall particularly popular for campers. Most primitive camping locations maintain a 150-foot setback rule from water sources, with specific regulations varying by land management agency.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 10-15 minute hiking distance from Namanock Island campsites leads to impressive cascades. One visitor 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 you're stopping here."
Island camping adventures: Experience complete seclusion by camping on river islands accessible only by watercraft. A camper at Sandyston Boat In Campsites shared, "Tucked away on the New Jersey side of the river, about a 1/4 mile after the Nanamock Access, you will find the 6 sites that make up Sandyston Canoe Campground. It's a very quiet area, as there is no access to the general public."
Rock climbing access: Tent campers visiting the Westbrookville region can access world-class climbing at nearby crags. A camper at Shawangunk Gateway Campground remarked, "This is the closest campground to world renowned rock climbing in 'the gunks' and also offers many other outdoor activities including some great hikes and rock scrambles, swimming holes and waterfalls. People travel from all over the world to rock climb here."
What campers like
Complete isolation: Campers particularly enjoy the privacy of water-access sites near Westbrookville. A visitor to Moon Valley Campground noted, "You totally feel that your party is alone out on the river, the entire world is yours and yours alone. There are no public interactions on the river for miles."
Dark night skies: The remote location of many tent sites creates opportunities for stargazing. One camper reported, "The island is situated in a way that once darkness falls there are no lights to be seen in either direction, up or down river. No lights means an incredible view of the night sky."
Natural tent platforms: Many tent sites in the region feature naturally level areas. At Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground, a visitor appreciated "The nicest, most level tent site you'll ever find. So easy to set up, and no worries whatsoever about roots or rocks."
Historical connections: The region's rich cultural heritage adds depth to camping experiences. A camper at Sandyston noted, "This area is rich in history, folklore, legends and locations that anyone camping here would truly enjoy knowing/seeing."
What you should know
Water transportation required: Many prime tent sites near Westbrookville require boat access. At Namanock Island, "This site is only accessible by canoes or kayaks. There is no public road access to the campsite."
Length-of-stay limitations: Many waterfront sites restrict camping duration. A camper at Peekamoose Valley explained, "People found camping at this site that are not on a river trip or that are camped at the site for longer than one day can expect to receive hefty fines from the NPS."
Physical access challenges: Some riverside tent sites require significant effort to reach. One camper mentioned, "The river to camp journey due to fluctuating water levels all of the islands that are used for camping have a cut wall cliff style approach, but these sites have a very steep and above average height to the shoreline making unloading both more tiring."
Insect considerations: Depending on location and season, bugs can be problematic. A Peekamoose Valley camper warned, "Oh, did I mention the Tics!??" while another noted it was "Very buggy, LOTS of centipedes and other creatures at night, so bring a chair instead of sitting on the bench or log."
Tips for camping with families
Campground selection matters: Families should consider carefully which sites work best with children. A camper at Wawayanda State Park Campground noted, "I stayed at group site 4 which was a very nice campsite. Not very much completely level terrain but nothing you can't sleep on."
Pack-in challenges: Family camping often requires more gear, making transport considerations important. A Peekamoose Valley visitor shared, "I was in the lower area and had to walk pretty far with everything and make at least 6-8 trips for each load-in and out. I went and bought a wagon after the first day to carry the firewood down to our site."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for animal sightings and proper food storage. One camper reported, "As for local wildlife, you can expect to be visited by a masked robber or two during the night, but a bear bag hanging will eliminate any issues."
Site spacing considerations: Families should research campsite proximity. At Shawangunk Gateway, "Campsites are CLOSE together. I was relieved to be in a site we had to walk to, because having the car right there combined with other tents would have been a little claustrophobic."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most tent-oriented campgrounds around Westbrookville limit RV size. One visitor to Port Jervis Elks Brox Hiker/Biker Campground warned, "I read a previous review that stated small cars stay away. I have a Nissan rogue and made it in no problem. It's .8 miles in on the right. I would not drive an RV in here except maybe a small type trailer."
Uneven terrain: Many campgrounds feature natural surfaces that may challenge RV leveling. A camper noted, "It's one of the best sites I have ever stayed in. Always Clean, very spacious, great views... If you have neighbors, the island is large enough for all."
Limited hookup options: Most camping areas near Westbrookville prioritize tent camping with minimal amenities for RVs. Campers should be prepared for primitive conditions, as one visitor explained, "This is PRIMITIVE camping... No bathrooms, no facilities of any sort. Everything must be packed in and out, or you won't have it."
