Tent camping sites near White Plains, New York range from basic wilderness spots to developed campgrounds with amenities. These camping areas sit within the Hudson Valley region at elevations between 200-1,300 feet, creating varied terrain for campers to explore. Winter camping options remain available at several year-round facilities, though amenities may be reduced from December through March.
What to do
Swimming access: 5-minute walk: At Croton Point Park, campers can enjoy water activities during summer months. "There is a place to swim but only within buoys and when a life guard is present," notes Isabel L., who adds that wildlife viewing opportunities exist as "there are lots of bunnies!"
Hiking system: 40+ miles of trails: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers an extensive network of marked paths for day hikes. Paul R. confirms, "They have great sights and are open all year round. Ive stayed in hammocks, tents, leantos, and even did a good share of car camping. They have many sites and a tone of hiking trails."
Water recreation: kayaking and canoeing: Multiple lakes throughout the region provide paddling opportunities. At Sebago Cabin Camp, campers can access nearby waters. As Sara P. explains, "In the same state park (Harriman) is several other lakes for swimming, hiking, and paddle boating (up the road)."
What campers like
Wilderness access with structure: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center balances backcountry feel with organization. Thomas M. reports, "This is a first class facility. Very clean. They offer a meal plan (Option for breakfast, lunch, dinner) that you can get at their dinning hall and I HIGHLY recommend that option."
Varied terrain for all skill levels: The region offers camping options for beginners through experienced outdoors people. At Suffern-Bear Mountain from Gate Hill Road Primitive, more advanced campers can find challenge and reward. Ethan K. notes, "At one point of the trail is a very difficult, but doable, rock scramble up the side of the mountain. At the top of the scramble is a primitive camping site with amazing views."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campers report animal sightings throughout the area. At Croton Point Park, Anil S. warns, "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require in-person booking while others use phone or online systems. At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, Paul R. explains, "The one downside is that you need to book in person but it can be done well in advance if need be."
Fire regulations: Rules about campfires differ between locations. At Sandy Hook, fires are permitted in designated rings. Christy K. notes, "No outside wood is permitted - but you can buy some in the store (cash only)."
Noise levels: Sites closer to urban areas may experience more sound disruption. Jonathan C. reports about Croton Point Park: "The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm. Great site for a party, try to stay away from this end of the site or choose a site away from other bookings if you'd like quiet."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: centrally located: Several campgrounds offer play structures for children. At Battle Row Campground, Michael M. notes, "The park is clean the bathrooms are well maintained and there is a playground for the kids."
Kid-friendly programming: Some parks schedule activities specifically for younger campers. Sara P. shares about Sebago: "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too."
First-time camping success: The area works well for introducing children to tent camping. Kevin G. from Croton Point Park shares, "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."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Full hookups are scarce in the immediate White Plains area. At Lake Frederick Outdoor Recreation Area, military-affiliated campers have access to "rustic power-only campsites that give you a true camping experience," according to Heather M.
Site spacing considerations: RV sites at some campgrounds offer minimal privacy. Lee D. observes about Croton Point Park: "The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together."
Bathroom access: Facilities for RV campers vary widely between locations. The Croton Point shower house is described by Lee D. as "Clean but a bit dated. No shelves or hooks for toiletries. I was surprised the door was left open all night long."
