Updated July 15, 2022
New York City might be all about the hustle and bustle but right outside those skyscrapers, your next outdoor getaway awaits. With so much action in the city, you may not realize it’s surrounded by a vast amount of natural beauty. Take advantage of these scenic areas with an overnight adventure in the great outdoors. From beach-side sites to tree-lined campgrounds, there are several options within reach of New York City. To help you plan your next escape from the city, we’ve put together a list of places to go camping near New York City. Pack your bags and get ready for your next camping adventure!
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Best Places to Go Camping Near New York City
Cheesequake State Park
- Distance from New York City: 40 miles (45 minutes by car)
- Types of Campsites: RV and tent camping
- Open Dates: April to October
- Reservations and Cost: Reservations are required, site fees vary
Just a short drive from New York City is Cheesequake State Park. The most unique characteristic of this state park is its geographical location, which lies between two different ecosystems. You’ll have access to the best of both worlds with open fields, freshwater, and saltwater marshes on one side and forests on the other side. Being situated in this diverse area lends itself to tons of outdoor activities like birdwatching, hiking, swimming, canoeing, and kayaking. The state park has fifty trailers and tent sites that are all equipped with a fire ring and picnic table. There are also flushing toilets and shower facilities just a short walk away.
Beaver Pond Campground – Harriman State Park
- Distance from New York City: 44 miles (1 hour by car)
- Types of Campsites: RV (no electrical hook-ups) and tent camping
- Open Dates: Mid-April to mid-October
- Reservations and Cost: Reservations are required, site fees start at $15/day
- Important Note: No alcohol or pets permitted
Explore the wilderness of the Lower Hudson Valley at the Beaver Pond campground. Located in Harriman State Park and near Lake Welch, this campground offers numerous activities for camping near New York City. Spend the day hiking the trails, at the swimming beach, or checking out the park’s facilities. The campground is conveniently located near local shops, historic sites, and seasonal events making it the perfect getaway. The tent and trailer sites are all fitted with a fire ring with a flip-top grill and a picnic table. The campground also offers shared full-service bathrooms.
Wildwood State Park
- Distance from New York City: 76 miles (1 hour and 30 minutes by car)
- Types of Campsites: RV, tent camping, and cottages
- Open Dates: Dates vary, check the website for details
- Reservations and Cost: Reservations are required, site fees start at $18/day
Located on the north shore of Long Island, Wildwood State Park is home to 600 acres of untouched forest sitting on the high bluff overlooking the Long Island Sound. For water lovers, the park offers access to two miles of beach for swimming and fishing. There are also twelve miles of hiking trails, a nature trail, basketball courts, and ball fields. You’ll have no problem filling your day with fresh air and sunshine here. The park even offers special events and activities during July and August like movie showings as well as line and square dancing. Each tent site includes a picnic table and there are bathroom and shower facilities nearby. Be sure to bring a metal fire basket if you plan to have a campfire or want to grill.
Taconic State Park – Copake Falls
- Distance from New York City: 118 miles (2 hours and 15 minutes by car)
- Types of Campsites: RV, tent camping, and cabins
- Open Dates: Dates vary, check the website for details
- Reservations and Cost: Reservations are required, site fees start at $15/day
With over 100 campsites available for tent, trailer, or cabin camping, Taconic State Park is perfect for any type of camper. The park consists of more than 5,000 acres of land and shares a border with Massachusetts and Connecticut. Go boating on Lake Rudd, bike or hike on the trails, go fishing or hunting, have a picnic, and relax and enjoy the views. The Copake Falls area of the park allows you to set up camp along the Taconic Mountain Range. How does that saying go again? The mountains are calling? Channel your inner John Muir and plan a weekend getaway at Taconic State Park, an idyllic place to camp near New York City.
North-South Lake Campground
- Distance from New York City: 123 miles (2 hours and 15 minutes by car)
- Types of Campsites: RV and tent camping
- Open Dates: Mid-May to mid-October
- Reservations and Cost: Reservations are required, $22/day site fee (additional $5 for out-of-state residents)
With a reputation for being the biggest and most popular campground in the Catskill Forest Preserve, the North-South Lake campground is a must-visit when planning your next outdoor adventure. Indulge in the scenic beauty of the forest or immerse yourself in the rich history by visiting the former site of the Catskill Mountain House. For those hiking-fiends, the campground offers tons of trails to explore. Hop on the trail to the famous Kaaterskill Falls, the tallest falls in New York state at 85-feet and 175-feet. There are also boating, fishing, swimming, and wildlife educational activities to enjoy. The grounds have over 200 sites available, multiple picnic areas equipped with fireplaces and grills, and on-site bathroom and shower facilities. They also have a solar cell phone charging station for those of us that don’t want to go too off-grid!
Fahnestock State Park
- Distance from New York City: 61 miles (1 hour and 15 minutes by car)
- Types of Campsites: RV and tent camping
- Open Dates: Dates vary, check the website for details
- Reservations and Cost: Reservations are required, site fees start at $15/day
Located in both Putnam and Duchess counties, Fahnestock State Park offers a fantastic experience camping near New York City. The campsites are nestled along the park’s natural rock ridges providing privacy and tranquility during your stay. The park is known for its great boating, fishing, hunting, and birdwatching activities. Having a picnic on the sandy shores of Canopus Lake is a must as it’s considered the jewel of the park. The park also offers rowboat and kayak rentals if you want to be on the water. Fahnestock State Park campground’s nature center has amazing displays to view and on weekends, you can participate in a staff-led hike to fully explore the park.
Hither Hills State Park
- Distance from New York City: 114 miles (2 hours and 15 minutes by car)
- Types of Campsites: RV and tent camping
- Open Dates: Dates vary, check the website for details
- Reservations and Cost: Reservations are required, site fees start at $35/day
With 190 ocean-side sites, it’s not hard to believe Hither Hills State Park is a favorite amongst New Yorkers. I mean, sleeping with the soothing waves in the background? Sign me up. The campground offers two miles of sandy beach, a 40-acre lake, year-round fishing, beautiful picnic areas, multiple nature, and hiking trails, and a playground. The unique “walking dunes” are an absolute must-do when visiting Hither Hills. You can also discover different tree varieties like Russian olive, oak, shad, and pine trees. In the summer, there’s an organized recreation program that puts on events and activities making it the perfect spot for your next family or friends’ vacation when you want to go camping near New York City.
Minnewaska Site Park Preserve – Sam Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground
- Distance from New York City: 96 miles (2 hours by car)
- Types of Campsites: Tent and vehicle camping
- Open Dates: Mid-April to mid-November
- Reservations and Cost: Reservations are required, site fees start at $24/day
Rock climbing enthusiasts – this one is for you! Nicknamed “Gunk’s Campground,” Sam Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground at Minnewaska Site Park Preserve was created in 2006 and is managed by The American Alpine Club and the Mohonk Preserve. It is a minimalist operation that gives visitors amazing views of the Shawangunk mountains. Gunk’s campground has 24 drive-in sites and 26 walk-in sites available. The grounds are fitted with a pavilion, cooking area, shower and bathroom facilities, and WiFi. So yes, you can post those awesome pictures of you scaling that boulder. Aside from great climbing opportunities, there are over 50 miles of trails you can explore on foot or by bike. Make sure to explore waterfalls, crystal clear lakes, and breathtaking views from the cliffs.
Hammonasset Beach State Park
- Distance from New York City: 100 miles (1 hour 45 minutes by car)
- Types of Campsites: RV, tent camping, and cabins
- Open Dates: End of May to mid-October
- Reservations and Cost: Reservations are required, site fees start at $20/day
- Important Note: No pets permitted
Hammonasset was first settled in 1639 by eastern woodland Native Americans and translates to “where we dig holes in the ground.” The Hammonasset Beach State Park now hails itself as Connecticut’s largest public beach park providing, numerous options for outdoor activities. With over two miles of beach, you’ll have no problem spending the day swimming in the water, lounging in the sun, or taking a canoe trip. The park also offers a children’s play area and nature center, making it the perfect place to bring your family. Hammonaset campground has over 550 sites with access to shower and bathroom facilities, a camp store, and clean water.
Nickerson Beach Park
- Distance from New York City: 40 miles (45 minutes by car)
- Types of Campsites: RV camping
- Open Dates: April to November
- Reservations and Cost: Reservations are required, site fees vary
Situated right along the Atlantic ocean, Nickerson Beach Park is a 121-acre camping destination that caters to RV campers. The campground has 74 RV sites available all fitted with water and electrical hookups so you can pull in and set up with ease. Nickerson Beach Park is the best option for that beach getaway you’ve been wanting to plan. Take advantage of being right near the beach by swimming in the water, playing a round on their seaside golf course, or getting a match of beach volleyball going. It’s safe to say that you won’t be bored here.
Collective Governors Island
- Distance from New York City: 10 minutes by ferry
- Types of Campsites: Glamping tents
- Open Dates: May to mid-November
- Reservations and Cost: Reservations are required, site fees vary
For those of you wanting a more swanky experience camping near New York City, Collective Governors Island is your spot. This retreat is just minutes away from Manhattan and is only accessible by ferry. You can either reserve a ferry through the retreat’s website or opt for the public ferry. Choose between three different accommodations: Summit Tent, Outlook Shelter, or the Journey+ Tent. All are temperature-controlled and outfitted with aesthetically-driven decor. Indulge in the eateries on-site and the many health and wellness activities they offer. There aren’t many places where you can sleep under the stars with the Statue of Liberty looking over you!
Malouf’s Mountain Campground
- Distance from New York City: 78 miles (1 hour and 30 minutes by car)
- Types of Campsites: Tent camping
- Open Dates: End of April to end of October
- Reservations and Cost: Reservations are required, site fees start at $70/day
- Information Note: No pets permitted
This hike-in, hike-out campground offers an amazing camping experience. Don’t have any gear? They’ve got you covered. Malouf’s Mountain Campground even offers a pickup service from the Beacon Train Station if you don’t plan on driving in. Get dropped off at your hike and they’ll have your gear ready for you at your site. With both primitive and platform site options available, Malouf’s is perfect for any type of camper. The campground also has shared shower and bathroom facilities as well as free WiFi in the common picnic area. Dick Malouf, the owner, chose this area because it’s nestled right in the mountain terrain of the Fishkill Ridge making it a go-to spot for anyone who wants to appreciate nature. If you see him around the grounds, don’t be shy!
New York City North/ Newburgh KOA Holiday
- Distance from New York City: 77 miles (1 hour and 30 minutes by car)
- Types of Campsites: RV, tent camping, and cabins
- Open Dates: End of March to end of October
- Reservations and Cost: Reservations are required, site fees vary
New York City North/ Newburgh KOA Holiday is bustling with tons of outdoor recreation. As a family-friendly location, it’s a great location for camping near New York City. Located in the heart of the Hudson Valley, you have access to local farm markets, wineries, West Point, and even Franklin D. Roosevelt’s home. KOA has thought of everything you need to make the most out of your next getaway. You can choose to venture away for a serene nature trail walk or you can take advantage of the facilities and try your shot at their state-of-the-art rock climbing wall. The campground also offers full shower and bathroom facilities, WiFi, laundry, pool access, and even an arcade area.
Beaverkill Campground
- Distance from New York City: 137 miles (2 hours and 30 minutes by car)
- Types of Campsites: RV and tent camping
- Open Dates: Mid-May to the beginning of September
- Reservations and Cost: Reservations are required, $20/day site fee (additional $5 for out-of-state residents)
Situated along the Beaverkill trout fishing stream, Beaverkill Campground is an angler’s dream. Snag yourself a riverside site and make the sounds of the Beaverkill stream the soundtrack of your new favorite outdoor getaway. Within a few miles of the campground, you’ll find the Delaware Wild Forest, which offers over 33 miles of hiking trails. A great excuse to break in those new hiking boots. All sites are fitted with picnic tables, fire grills, and access to bathroom and shower facilities, making it a great option for camping near New York City. Be sure to register for a camping permit on the website when planning a trip here!
Woodland Valley Campground
- Distance from New York City: 127 miles (2 hours and 15 minutes by car)
- Types of Campsites: RV and tent camping
- Open Dates: Mid-May to mid-October
- Reservations and Cost: Reservations are required, $20/day site fee (additional $5 for out-of-state residents)
Set up camp at Woodland Valley, where you can sleep at the foot of Slide Mountain, the tallest peak in the Catskills. The campground is surrounded by mountains, so there is no shortage of breathtaking views to take in here. For our hikers reading this, the campground conveniently serves as the trailhead for two main trails (so yes, you can say it’s perfect!). Established in the early 1930s, this is one of the earliest campgrounds. Much longer before that, just 350 million years ago, one of the surrounding mountains was hit by a meteorite! The Esopus Creek and Woodland Valley Steam almost form a perfect circle around the mountain outlining the impact site. Indulge in the rich history of the land and the scenic views of the mountains at this campground.
Additional Camping Resources
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