Tent campsites near Yonkers, New York span across lower New York State and northern New Jersey, positioned within an hour's drive of the city. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 200-1,200 feet, offering varied terrain from riverside flats to mountain slopes. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with higher humidity levels than inland areas, while spring and fall camping seasons experience 45-70°F temperatures with less rainfall than winter months.
What to do
Hiking at Harriman State Park: Access over 40 miles of trails from The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center. "The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio. This campsite is accessible by public transportation. There is a shuttle run by the campsite to and from Tuxedo Park Train Station," notes Ilya F.
Waterfront activities: Croton Point Park offers Hudson River swimming during summer months. "Oh...and did i say, gorgeous scenery along the river and a private beach which is opened from Wednesday to the weekend with life guards on duty!" shares Anil S.
Seasonal events: Visit Ward Pound Ridge Reservation during fall for Halloween festivities. "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!" writes Wendy C.
Urban exploration: Staten Island camping provides unique historical sites. "There is abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring. There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building," notes Phillip L.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Sebago Cabin Camp offers well-spaced sites. "Sebago cabins the way to get away and relax enjoy the lake... most cabins have 2rooms with 4cots but some are larger inside has a full fridge and double hot plate outside a pit and grill with table," explains Hashim C.
Family-friendly amenities: Campgaw Mountain Reservation provides accessible activities. "There was also plenty to do during the day, like joining the hikers on those trails, disc golf, and sitting by the water," shares Jake R.
Urban accessibility: Camping options with public transportation access. "Been here a dozen times! Great hiking for all abilities. Free camping at stone shelters. Beautiful lakes all over the place," writes Meredith C. about Harriman State Park.
Campsite platforms: Some locations offer raised sleeping areas. "I camped on one of the platforms, which was very nice and did not feel crowded even with other people on neighboring platforms," reports Ilya F. about AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Sandy Hook requires advance planning. "The federally operated campground is only occasionally staffed and only after you call," notes Craig M.
Campfire regulations: Battle Row has specific fire rules. "There are NO fire pits, you must bring your own. Fires are allowed but you must have a fire container or bucket for your fire off of the ground," explains Katrina M.
Site selection considerations: Ward Pound Ridge offers diverse site options. "The camping sites are very different so it's useful to go in person and select the area. Parking is close, but some of the sites are also pretty close to each other so there is less privacy," advises Susana M.
Wildlife awareness: Expect encounters with local fauna at many sites. "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night," warns Anil S. about Croton Point Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Battle Row Campground offers kid-friendly facilities. "The playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit," notes Katrina M.
Beginner-friendly options: Look for sites with amenities that ease first-time camping experiences. "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. about Croton Point Park.
Proximity to attractions: Consider campgrounds near family destinations. "This camp is run by AMC (The Appalachian Mountain Club), you don't have to be a member to use the facility but you get better rates. They offer cabins and campsites," explains Thomas M.
Equipment assistance: Some sites provide help with gear transport. "The parking for your car is 1/4 mile away but they allow you to unload and give you a wagon to take stuff to your site," notes Thomas M. about AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Croton Point Park offers defined RV spaces. "All sites appeared level. The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together," explains Lee D.
Hook-up variations: Understand the electrical options at each campground. "We had a loosely defined gravel pad that was level. All sites appeared level," notes Lee D.
Park regulations: Be aware of campground-specific rules. "This includes all manner of restrictions on how you can camp, where you can camp, what equipment can be used, and use in relation to what particular site you may have been lucky enough to reserve," warns Paul K.
Off-season considerations: Some campgrounds reduce services seasonally. "There is a lodge and cabins close to the end of the point, but they appeared to be part of a group camp experience. They all appeared to be closed for the season," observes Lee D. about Croton Point Park.
