Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, near Pound Ridge, New York, is a fantastic spot for campers looking to immerse themselves in nature. With a variety of sites available, including shelters and tent spots, it’s perfect for everyone from seasoned campers to those just starting out.

This campground is known for its well-maintained facilities and friendly staff. Visitors rave about the cozy shelters equipped with fire pits, making it easy to enjoy evenings by the fire. One camper noted, “The shelters are great for people who want to camp and not have to worry about unplanned weather.” Plus, the hiking trails are a major highlight, with over 40 miles of paths winding through the beautiful landscape.

If you’re planning a visit, keep in mind that reservations must be made in person, so it’s wise to arrive early to snag the best spots. The area is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure. Just remember, while you’ll find plenty of natural beauty and tranquility, you’ll need to drive into town for supplies, as there are no markets nearby.

Whether you’re looking to hike, relax by the fire, or simply escape the hustle and bustle, Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers a welcoming atmosphere and a chance to connect with the great outdoors.

The 4,315-acre park makes Ward Pound Ridge Reservation the county’s largest park. With its varied terrain and landscapes and miles of wooded trails, the park provides a variety of activities in all seasons. There are areas for picnicking, lean-to camping, fishing and cross-country skiing.

Ward Pound Ridge Reservation

Join the fun near Cross River. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Cross River, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Cross River

The Best Camping Near Cross River, New York

Ward Pound Ridge is very well known to the locals as a great place for sled-riding in winter (Pell Hill area) and a place for big group gatherings. 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.

As far as camping as a family, it is not too exciting a place for us. The grounds are far too well trimmed, as you can see in one of the videos. There is wide open space and the paths are well paved so kids can have fun riding the bikes or running around. There is also many trails of various difficulty levels to suit everyone, including horseback riders. The Trailside Nature Museum is also fun for the kids.

There are lean-to sites as well as tent sites. A maximum of eight people in two tents are allowed at each site. But if you really do have a party of eight, one picnic table seems to be inadequate. 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.

All in all, it is not a place I would recommend if you want to get close to nature.

Manicured grounds; sites far apart

This is a great local spot that I love to go to get out of the city for a little bit. There’s elevation gain, creeks, and open fields for stargazing. You have the options of a lean to here.

Great local spot

Close to the city and civilization, yet large enough to have nice trails and creeks to feel away from it all. 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. It’s a good site to do a quick camping trip. Dogs are welcome on a leash. 

Nice county park

This is by far one of my favorite camp site I've been to. Simply beautiful sceneries every where you turn. My family and friends stayed at the Kimberly campsite 7 on Sept, 2020 and I have to say, we couldn't ask for a better spot. No mosquitos or bugs. We had a fire pit 🔥,  bbq grill and 2 benches that fit 3 tents. Clean porta potties and beautiful little creeks and waterways. 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. Plenty of parking and hiking trails! Not alot of loud notices or wild animal issues that we experienced.  It was beautiful! Only thing is, stores are not near by and had to drive into Bedford to grab food items and camping necessities! I would highly recommend this for anyone! 

Breathtakingly gorgeous camp site!

This is a great place for camping. The shelters are great for people who want to camp and not have to worry about unplanned weather. The best part of this campsite are the endless trails in the area (see screenshot of AllTrails). I believe there are over 40 miles of trails in this area. Would definitely recommend for those who want to camp near NYC but not drive too far.

Great shelters, better trails!

This is a really great place to camp. The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience. The staff is friendly as well

Awesome place!

It’s a great place. The camping is very premium but the property and hikes are magical. No car noise or nonsense. 

Amazing peoperty

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. plenty of space at each shelter site and they have a lovely staff :)

A Wonderful Stay for new campers!

Ive been coming here for years.  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.  All of the shelters have fire pits and some have interior fireplaces. The one downside is that you need to book in person but it can be done well in advance if need be. 

Photos of Ward Pound Ridge Reservation

Real photos from real campers