Camping options within 30-60 minutes of Yonkers, New York provide access to the diverse Hudson Valley terrain, with elevations ranging from sea level along the Hudson River to 1,300 feet in the nearby highlands. Seasonal conditions vary dramatically, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and frequent thunderstorms from June through August. Winter camping remains available at several year-round facilities where temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Swimming at designated beach areas: At Beaver Pond Campground, campers have access to Lake Welch, which features a lifeguard-monitored sandy beach during summer. "A quick 40 minutes north of NYC, Harriman State Park has an eclectic little campground called Beaver Pond. The grounds are just steps away from Welch Lake, offering a lifeguard monitored sandy beach which is open during the summer season for swimming, fishing, and small boat craft further out," notes Steve W.
Hiking local trail networks: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers over 40 miles of trails within the property. "This is a great place for camping. The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience," shares Jeremy S. For hikers seeking variety, "The many different trails are frequented by the locals as well. In recent years, the county government also allow bow-hunting of deer to control its population during the months of October to December," notes Ming R.
Seasonal apple picking: Several campgrounds near Yonkers provide easy access to orchards in autumn. "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!" explains Wendy C. about Croton Point Park. Fall activities typically run from early September through late October with most orchards charging $25-35 per bag.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Fahnestock State Park, campers appreciate the thoughtful site layout. "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," notes Ethan K. Another camper found, "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."
Off-season quiet: Many campgrounds transform during non-summer periods. "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. Expect to purchase firewood, although scrounging for kindling was possible," reports Rebecca S. Fall camping offers additional benefits as "the beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful."
Proximity to NYC: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides exceptionally easy city access. "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. Two blocks away from NJ Path train into Manhattan or take the ferry to Wall Street!" shares Keith and Tia S. Most campers use the location as a base: "Very convenient location. My wife visited Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island."
What you should know
Reservation processes vary widely: Some campgrounds require in-person bookings. "There is no phone or internet reservations and has to be made in person at the office. I would recommend call earlier and come in few minutes earlier to 9 am when the office opens to find the best spots," advises Anil S. about Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.
Wildlife encounters common: Bears and smaller animals visit campsites regularly. "Welcome to Bear Mountain" grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He offers us a highlighted map to our site, wishes us a good stay, and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area. I mean, we are in Bear Mountain, what do you expect?!?" Other campers warn about "packs of fearless racoons at night" that target improperly stored food.
Facility maintenance issues: Several campgrounds have aging infrastructure. "Bathrooms with shower is near by and has plenty porta potties all around," notes one camper, while others mention "Bathroom and showers were clean" but also that "facilities are somewhat dated" and "bathrooms and dishwashing... UGH. So old and dirty!!!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When camping with children at Croton Point Park, select sites near recreational facilities. "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper," shares Thomas. Sites closest to playgrounds typically fill first during summer weekends, so book 2-3 months in advance.
Nature center programs: Several parks offer structured activities for kids. "Short distance from the NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," reports Zorina N. Some campgrounds "do big bon 🔥 on Saturday very kid friendly ranger Joe is 👌 with the kids."
Easy first-time camping options: Sebago Cabin Camp offers alternatives for families new to camping. "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," shares Kevin G. Cabins provide a transition between home comforts and tent camping with "an outside grill and picnic area."
Tips from RVers
Urban camping considerations: Skyline RV Camp - Waterfront provides direct city access for RVs. "A little intimidating driving in to a nondescript gate at the end of a narrow street but the overall experience exceeded expectation. It's essentially a spacious parking lot with electrical pedestals but the view of the skyline across the water is spectacular and there's a metro station within a 10-minute walk," notes Amy P.
Finding pet-friendly RV sites: For pet friendly camping near Yonkers, New York, check for specific site assignments. "Gave us a welcome folder with lots of helpful info, can walk to get food up the street, short drive to Liberty Park where we got out and walked at night to admire the city skyline and Statue of Liberty at night. They have hook ups and big laundry room," notes Erc L.
Limited hookup options: Most campgrounds offer only electric/water connections. "The sites had electric and water and were in a fenced off section of tue marina parking area. It was a little loud with city noises, but exactly what we expected being so close," shares Kevin A. Full-hookup sites are rare, with most facilities having "a dump station, but not the easiest to use."