Tent camping near Yorktown Heights offers woodland and riverside settings within the Hudson Valley region, positioned approximately 35 miles north of New York City. The area sits at moderate elevations between 300-800 feet, with a climate featuring warm summers and cool falls that extend the camping season through mid-October. Many campsites feature established fire rings with grills and access points to multiple trail systems connecting natural areas throughout Westchester County.
What to do
Seasonal festivals and events: At Croton Point Park, campers can participate in local celebrations like Halloween events. "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!" noted camper Wendy C.
Water activities: Swimming in designated areas provides relief during summer months. "There is a place to swim but only within buoys and when a life guard is present," explains Isabel L. about Croton Point Park. Another option is the pristine lakes at Mountain Lakes Park where "the area, as the name implies, is home to several lakes which can be used for various recreational purposes," according to Ethan K.
Rock scrambling: For adventurous campers, challenging terrain awaits on the Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail. "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," states Ethan K.
What campers like
Proximity to NYC: Many campsites offer wilderness experiences without long travel times. At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, "This is a great place for camping near NYC but not drive too far," writes Ethan K. Similarly, Mountain Lakes Park is praised as "a great place to camp within driving distance from NYC" by the same reviewer.
Trail access: The extensive trail networks directly from campsites rank high among visitor experiences. Ward Pound Ridge features "over 40 miles of trails in this area" according to Ethan K., while Mountain Lakes Park offers "many hikes which can be trekked straight from the campgrounds" as noted by the same camper.
Sheltered camping options: Lean-to structures provide weather protection. "The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience," states Jeremy S. about Ward Pound Ridge. Will L. adds, "Stayed three nights and had an amazing time, super cozy by the fire in our shelter and our site was minutes from some amazing trails."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require in-person booking. "The one downside is that you need to book in person but it can be done well in advance if need be," notes Paul R. about Ward Pound Ridge.
Noise considerations: Train activity affects some campgrounds. Andrew A. mentions about Croton Point Park: "Only down side is there is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night." Jonathan C. adds that some tent sites experience noise as "The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare food storage for raccoon activity. Anil S. warns Croton Point campers to "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly sites: Some campgrounds specifically cater to families with amenities designed for children. Kevin G. shares about Croton Point Park: "I took my 5 year-old-son and wife, all of us first time campers. this place was great." Another camper mentions that Croton Point Park has "a decent playground for young kids."
Consider bathroom proximity: Facility distance varies between sites. Ming R. notes about Ward Pound Ridge that "The sites are much farther away from the comfort stations than most campgrounds we have been to. But there are port-a-potties very close to the sites, which is very important when you have young kids."
Visibility factor: Some campsites offer better supervision options. Thomas mentions about Croton Point: "playground within sight of our camper," making it easier for parents to monitor children while at their campsite.
Tips from RVers
Utility connections: RV sites offer various hookup configurations. At Sebago Cabin Camp in Harriman State Park, electric, water, and sewer options exist but with limited site space. They have "rustic cabins. These do not have plumbing or heat. It is a step up from cabin camping," explains Adaly.
Site definition and spacing: Expect varying degrees of site separation. About Croton Point Park, Lee D. observes "The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together."
Camp store access: Supply points may require driving. Anil S. notes about Ward Pound Ridge, "Only thing is, stores are not near by and had to drive into Bedford to grab food items and camping necessities!"
