Top 15 Best Camping Places Near New York City
Although New York City may be all about the commotion, your next outdoor retreat is waiting for you just outside the city's skyscrapers. You might not be aware ... read more...of the abundance of natural beauty that surrounds the city because of all the activity there. Utilize these beautiful regions by going on an overnight outdoor excursion. Within driving distance of New York City, there are numerous possibilities, from campgrounds surrounded by trees to beachfront locations. Toplist has compiled a list of Best Camping Places Near New York City to assist you in organizing your upcoming city getaway.
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Malouf's is the campground for you if you suddenly feel the need to leave the city and need to leave practically everything behind and board the first train out. The camping at this hike-in, hike-out campground is fantastic. Don't have any equipment? You are protected by them. If you don't want to drive in, Malouf's Mountain Campground even provides a pickup service from the Beacon Train Station. Arrive to your hike after being dropped off, and your gear will be waiting for you there. Then, hire a tent and take advantage of exclusive campsites with covered platforms, fire pits, and all the necessary cooking equipment. Malouf's is one of the Best Camping Places Near New York City.
Malouf's is ideal for any sort of camper because it offers both basic and platform site options. Along with free WiFi in the communal picnic area, the campground also offers shared shower and restroom facilities. The location was chosen by the owner, Dick Malouf, since it is tucked away in the Fishkill Ridge's mountainous topography, making it a popular destination for anyone who wishes to appreciate nature. Don't be afraid to approach him if you find him wandering the grounds.
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
Rating: 5.0/5.0, 16 Tripadvisor reviews -
This one is for you, rock climber fanatics! The American Alpine Club and the Mohonk Preserve jointly operate Minnewaska Site Park Preserve's Sam Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground, also known as "Gunk's Campground," which was established in 2006. It is a little establishment that offers guests breathtaking views of the Shawangunk mountains. A pavilion, kitchen area, showers, bathrooms, and WiFi are all provided on the property. Therefore, it is okay for you to share those amazing photos of you climbing that rock. There are almost 50 miles of trails you may explore on foot or by bike in addition to excellent climbing opportunities. Don't forget to check out the waterfalls, the crystal-clear lakes, and the spectacular cliffside views.
The 50 acres of this premium, minimalist campsite include 24 drive-in sites (one vehicle per site) and 26 walk-in sites. A maximum of two tents (and four people) are allowed at each site; recreational vehicles are not allowed. For world-class rock climbing and bouldering, hiking, mountain biking, trail running, and environmental exploration, campers have access to the Mohonk Preserve, the largest nonprofit nature preserve in New York State. Depending on the weather, Sam Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground is open from April through November.
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/dayRating: 5.0/5.0, 40 Tripadvisor reviews
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Native Americans from the eastern woodlands established Hammonasset, which means "where we dig holes in the dirt," around 1639. With a wide range of outdoor activities available, Connecticut's largest public beach park is currently known as Hammonasset Beach State Park. You won't have any trouble spending the day swimming in the ocean, relaxing in the sun, or going on a canoe excursion thanks to the more than two kilometers of beach. The park is the ideal spot to bring your family because it has a children's play area and a nature center. You, your family, and friends will want to return time and time again for the movie nights, casual softball games, led nature excursions, communal cookouts, and kid-friendly activities, to mention a few. Enjoy camping in Hammonasset Beach State Park and hold onto the memories.
This Connecticut location, the largest coastline park in the state with two miles of beach, is ideal for summer camping. 550 campsites are available, as well as charming wooden "rustic cottages" with bunk beds. Don't forget to visit the nearby Meigs Point Nature Center to refresh your knowledge of the local flora and wildlife. Through Reserve America or by phoning 1-877-668-2267, reservations can be made. At the Hammonasset Beach State Park Campground, reservations can be made on a walk-up basis during the camping season. This is one of the Best Camping Places Near New York City.
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 permittedRating: 4.5/5.0, 584 Tripadvisor reviews
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It is understandable why New Yorkers love Hither Hills State Park, which has 190 oceanfront sites. Two miles of sandy beach, a 40-acre lake, year-round fishing, lovely picnic sites, numerous nature and hiking trails, and a playground are all available at the campground. When visiting Hither Hills, you must definitely experience the distinctive "walking dunes." Additionally, you can find many tree species, including pine, oak, shad, and Russian olive trees.
The Hither Hills State Park campground offers easy access to the beach, a playground, and a well equipped general store in case you missed anything. When you want to go camping close to New York City, this is the ideal location because there is a summertime scheduled recreation program that hosts events and activities.
The extremely popular Hither Hills State Park is notorious for having months' worth of reservations. Residents of New York State pay $35.00 per night for camping while non-residents pay $70.00 per night. Take the LIRR to Montauk, all the way out to the tip of the island (approximately 150 miles altogether from Penn Station). You will pay $21.25 for a one-way, off-peak fare. Campers can take a taxi, some of which typically wait in the neighboring LIRR parking lot to greet arriving trains, or walk approximately four and a half miles to reach the park entrance from the Montauk Train station.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/dayRating: 4.5/5.0, 207 Tripadvisor reviews
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The North-South Lake campground is a must-visit while making plans for your upcoming outdoor excursion because it has a reputation for being the largest and most well-liked campground in the Catskill Forest Preserve. Visit the old location of the Catskill Mountain House to take in the picturesque splendor of the forest or to immerse yourself in the fascinating history.
There are many routes to choose from in North-South Lake Campground for those who love to hike. Alligator Rock, Newman's Ledge, Boulder Rock, and Artist's Rock are a few of the challenging vistas that can be reached by hiking on the popular Escarpment Trail or other challenging hikes. Join the path to the renowned Kaaterskill Falls, which are the tallest falls in New York state at 85 and 175 feet, respectively. In addition, you can go boating, fishing, swimming, and learning about nature.
The hiking is excellent as well: from some vantage points, you can see five states at once on a clear day. There are more than 200 sites accessible on North-South Lake Campground, as well as numerous picnic spots with fireplaces and grills and on-site restrooms and showers. For those of people who don't want to go completely off the grid, they also have a solar phone charging station!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)Rating: 4.5/5.0, 124 Tripadvisor reviews
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The well-known Beaverkill trout fishing creek, which runs across the whole built length of the site from roughly east to west, is where Beaverkill Campground is situated. On the town road, a historic covered bridge that was first built in 1865 spans a brook. An angler's paradise, Beaverkill Campground is situated along the Beaverkill trout stream. Get a riverside spot and set the tone for your new favorite outdoor escape with the sounds of the Beaverkill stream.
You may locate the Delaware Wild Forest, which has more than 33 miles of hiking trails, a few kilometers from the campground. A good justification for breaking in new hiking boots. It's a terrific choice for camping close to New York City because every site has picnic tables, fire grills, and access to restrooms and showers. In addition to 52 tent and trailer sites (20 along the river), Beaverkill Campground with tables and grills, flush toilets, hot showers, pay phones, a trailer dump station, a recycling center, firewood sales, and accessible for the disabled, this campground features 52 tent and trailer sites. When making travel arrangements here, make sure to sign up for a camping permit on the website!
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)Rating: 4.5/5.0, 4 Tripadvisor reviews
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Collective Governors Island is the place to go if you're looking for a more upscale camping experience close to New York City. The eight-room Collective Governors Island Hotel is next to the circular fortification "Castle Williams" and is located in New York, a 10-minute ride from the cable-stayed Brooklyn Bridge. This refuge is only accessible by ferry and is only a few minutes from Manhattan.
Additionally, Collective Governors Island campground provides sundecks, picnic areas, and rooms free of allergens. You have the option of booking a ferry through the retreat's website or taking the free boat. Select from one of three lodging options, including the Summit Tent, Outlook Shelter, or the Journey+ Tent. All have aesthetically pleasing design and are climate-controlled. Enjoy the on-site restaurants and the many wellness-related activities they provide. There are hardly many places where you can lay down to sleep while Lady Liberty watches over you!
The hotel is in the Governors Island neighborhood, close to the World Trade Center Memorial Foundation and the Governors Island National Monument. The 94-story One World Trade Center is within 2.5 miles of the New York location. Restaurants and coffee shops improve the villa.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 varyRating: 4.0/5.0, 348 Tripadvisor reviews
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The second-largest New York State Park, Harriman State Park, is a well-liked destination for camping close to New York City. It contains 200 miles of hiking trails, numerous public camping spaces, dozens of group campgrounds, and backcountry alternatives. The campground is the ideal retreat because it is conveniently positioned close to neighborhood stores, historic landmarks, and seasonal activities.
Beaver Pond Campground, the most well-liked alternative among the public spaces, offers RV and tent sites with showers and facilities, as well as access to the best hiking, fishing, and swimming in the park. In the summer, Beaver Pond quickly fills up; therefore, if you want a peaceful, solitary camping trip, make your plans to avoid the crowds. Old-fashioned wood cabins are available for rent at Sebago Cabin Camp, which is located in the park's main area on the shores of Lake Sebago.
Only organizations are permitted to go group camping, which is primarily designed as a resource for groups of city inhabitants to get their first outdoor camping experience. A dining hall, recreation center, tent platforms (and occasionally cabins) and water amenities are all provided by the group campgrounds. There are several shelters and lean-tos dispersed along the many trails that crisscross the park for backcountry aficionados, and you can even find some on the neighboring section of the Appalachian Trail.Harriman State Park, one of the most well-liked camping spots in NYC, is easily reachable by rail. Camping enthusiasts can ride the Northeast Corridor Train (NJ Transit) from Penn Station to Tuxedo on the weekends from early July through late October, when camping is at its busiest. A shuttle bus enters Harriman Park from there. The rail rate is $14.00 one trip off peak and the bus fare is $5.00. Campers must either hike back to the railway station or make arrangements for a taxi to pick them up because there is no return bus.
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 permittedRating: 4.0/5.0, 153 Tripadvisor reviews
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The physical setting of Cheesequake State Park is what makes it distinctive. It is not only midway between the urban north and the suburban south; it is also in a zone where two different ecologies meet. You will find yourself surrounded by open fields, marine and freshwater marshes, an Atlantic white cedar swamp, pine barrens habitats, and a northern hardwood forest.
Despite being a small area, Cheesequake State Park offers a wide range of great recreational activities, including camping, swimming, and picnicking as well as kayak excursions, shooting, and mountain biking. The only park where a southern pine barrens ecology meets a northern hardwood forest ecosystem at sea level is Cheesequake, which offers hikers and birders a stunning variety of native flora and fauna in a healthy, natural environment. By stopping in the interpretive center, reserving a group picnic area, or exploring our nine miles of trails, you may visit and create your own park memories.
53 tent and trailer campsites with fire rings and picnic tables are available at this campground. Showers and flush toilets are easily accessible on foot. There is a portable restroom available. The height of cars entering the camping area is limited to 11 feet. From April 1 to October 31, this location is open. One campsite only allows six people and two vehicles per site, and you must pay $20 each night.Additionally, group campsites are available at Cheesequake State Park. Picnic tables, grills, and fire rings are available in the Gordon Field gathering space. There are six distinct sites that can each hold up to 25 campers. There are flush toilets and potable water available in the neighborhood. Take out the trash, please. Open from May 1 till October 31. The nightly rate for this campground is $25. This can be seen as one of the Best Camping Places Near New York City.
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 varyRating: 4.0/5.0, 128 Tripadvisor reviews
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Fahnestock State Park, which has campgrounds in both Putnam and Duchess counties, offers wonderful camping opportunities close to New York City. The campgrounds are tucked away along the park's natural granite ridges, giving you peace and serenity while you're there.
The variety of outdoor activities available in Fahnestock State Park will enchant adventurers. The park is well-known for its excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, hunting, and birdwatching. Canopus Lake is the crown jewel of the park, thus it's a necessity to have a picnic there. If you wish to be on the water, the park also has rowboat and kayak rentals available. The nature center at the Fahnestock State Park campground features breathtaking exhibits, and on weekends, you may join a staff-led hike to fully experience the park.
The Fahnestock State Park campground offers campers quiet, private alcoves carved out among the park's natural sandstone ridges. There are picnic tables, charcoal grills, and fire rings at each of the 80 campsites. There is also a location for RV camping. All RV and tent sites are close to restroom and shower facilities, even though there are no connections or a dump station provided. The nature area of the campground features a number of touch screens and environmental exhibits. It is considered as one of the Best Camping Places Near New York City.
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/dayRating: 4.0/5.0, 69 Tripadvisor reviews
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Woodland Valley Campground is tucked away at the base of Slide Mountain, the highest point in the Catskills, and is surrounded by the Panther, Cornell, and Wittenberg Mountains. Set up camp in Woodland Valley, where you may doze off at Slide Mountain's foot, the Catskills' tallest mountain. Mountains encircle the campground, so there are plenty of stunning vistas to take in. The campground conveniently serves as the trailhead for two major routes for hikers who are reading this (so sure, you can say it's ideal!).
Woodland Valley Campground is one of the earliest campgrounds, having been built in the early 1930s. There are 70 tent and trailer sites available at the campground, along with a picnic area with tables and grills, flush toilets, hot showers, a trailer dump station, and a recycling facility. The starting point for the Slide-Wittenberg Trail and the Woodland Valley-Denning Trail is the campground in Woodland Valley.
350 million years ago, a meteorite struck one of the nearby mountains, much more recently than that. The mountain enclosing the impact site is almost perfectly circled by the Esopus Creek and Woodland Valley Steam. Enjoy the picturesque mountain vistas and the area's lengthy history at Woodland Valley Campground. The Village of Phoenicia in the vicinity has a railroad museum, train rides on the Catskill Mountain Railroad, beautiful shops, antique stores, and restaurants in addition to tubing on the Esopus Creek, which is well-known for its trout fishing.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)Rating: 4.0/5.0, 31 Tripadvisor reviews
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The Newburgh/New York City North KOA Holiday is hopping with lots of outdoor activities. It's a fantastic place for camping close to New York City because it's family-friendly. KOA Holidays are a great place to unwind and have fun whether you're touring the neighborhood or just hanging out at the campground. With a variety of activities and amenities, your visit will be memorable. You have easy access to nearby farm markets, wineries, West Point, and even Franklin D. Roosevelt's house from this Hudson Valley location.
KOA has thought of everything you'll need to enjoy your upcoming getaway to the fullest. You can take advantage of the facilities and try your hand at their cutting-edge rock climbing wall, or you can choose to travel further for a tranquil nature trail walk. Additionally, the campground provides WiFi, laundry, access to the pool, full shower and restroom facilities, and even an arcade area.
Additionally, you can camp in comfort in Deluxe Cabins with full bathrooms and updated RV Sites with KOA Patio®. There are many options for staying and exploring, whether you bring your family, your friends, or the entire group.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 varyRating: 3.5/5.0, 136 Tripadvisor reviews
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Wildwood State Park is another another fantastic camping location on Long Island and close to NYC. Wildwood State Park, which has around 600 acres of protected hardwood woodland and views out over Long Island Sound, is the ideal place for a weekend fishing, hiking, and camping trip. For those who want to have a few city conveniences close by, there are 322 tent and trailer sites as well as inviting cottages. It is considered as one of the Best Camping Places Near New York City.
Here, it won't be difficult for you to spend your day outdoors and in the sun. Even special events and activities like movie showings and line and square dancing are available in the park in July and August. Each tent site has a picnic table, and nearby restrooms and showers are also available. If you intend to barbecue or have a campfire, don't forget to include a metal fire basket.
The cost of camping at Wildwood State Park varies from $18 to $34 per night, plus an extra $5 per night for out-of-state visitors. Cottages with one bedroom rent for between $175 and $200 per night, while those with two bedrooms cost between $225 and $250 per night.
Take the $21.25 LIRR to Riverhead on the North Shore to escape the urban sprawl and enter Wildwood's forest. Wildwood is roughly 10 miles from the Riverhead Train Station, so you should take a taxi—or walk if you're feeling active—there. Not many trains depart for Riverhead. Saturday's first and only morning train departs from Penn Station at 8:12 and arrives at 10:25. Since schedules can occasionally change, always check again before leaving.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/dayRating: 3.5/5.0, 82 Tripadvisor reviews
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Taconic State Park is ideal for any kind of camper, offering more than 100 campsites for tent, trailer, or cabin camping. The park, which has a land area of more than 5,000 acres, is bordered by Massachusetts and Connecticut. Take a boat out on Lake Rudd, go biking or hiking on the trails, go hunting or fishing, have a picnic, and unwind while taking in the scenery. You can pitch a tent near the Taconic Mountain Range in the park's Copake Falls region. How does that adage go once more? The peaks are beckoning to you. Plan a weekend escape in Taconic State Park, a beautiful spot to camp close to New York City, and channel your inner John Muir.
Taconic State Park is one of the most well-known state parks in New York for camping and is excellent for casual campers wishing to grill out, get some fresh air, and see the unpolluted night sky like you've only seen on your iPad. Depending on the experience you're looking for, make sure to contact ahead since some of the campgrounds might get a little busy. However, just being able to stand next to Bish Bash Falls, climb Brace Mountain, and walk on the storied Appalachian Trail is worth the trip in and of itself.
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
Rating: 3.0/5.0, 47 Tripadvisor reviews -
Nickerson Beach Park, a 121-acre campground for RV campers, is located directly along the Atlantic Ocean. The Nickerson Park Campground, which is tucked away in the Natchaug River Valley, places visitors right in the middle of more than 12,000 acres of State Forest while still providing a retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. There are 74 RV sites at the campsite that are all equipped with water and power hookups, making it simple for you to pull in and get set up. The ideal location for that beach vacation you've been wanting to arrange is Nickerson Beach Park. Take advantage of being so close to the beach by going swimming, playing a round of golf on the golf course next to the water, or starting a game of beach volleyball. You can be sure you won't get bored here.
Nickerson Park offers a variety of campsites, from riverfront sites with water, electrical, and cable hookups to full-hookup pull-through sites with 50 amp electrical service and on-site sewer, whether you prefer tenting along the river or traveling in comfort in larger buses. As a county park, extra vehicles and visitors are quite expensive ($30/day for those who are not county residents). The 5-mile-per-hour speed restriction is tightly enforced, and quiet hours are also observed. There is 24-hour security.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 varyRating: 3.5/5.0, 24 Tripadvisor reviews