Finding a good camping spot near New York City can be a great way to escape the busy city life and enjoy nature. I know that many people want easy access to outdoor activities without traveling far.
The best camping spots near NYC offer a mix of convenience, natural beauty, and a chance to relax outdoors. Whether you want to hike, fish, or just unwind, there are places close enough for a quick trip or a weekend getaway.
1) Wildwood State Park
I found Wildwood State Park to be a peaceful spot not far from New York City. The park stretches over 600 acres of hardwood forest and ends with a high bluff that overlooks Long Island Sound. It feels quiet and natural, perfect for a break from busy city life.
The beach is about two miles long, offering plenty of space to swim or just relax by the water. There are also hiking trails if you want to explore the forest. I enjoyed walking through the shaded paths and watching the water from above on the bluff.
Wildwood has areas for camping with both tents and trailers. For a bit more comfort, they now have cottages available. These cottages have kitchens, bedrooms, and screened porches, which made my stay convenient and cozy. Picnic tables and playgrounds nearby make it good for families too.
If you’re planning to fish or try cross-country skiing in winter, the park supports that as well. The fishing is allowed year-round with permits, so it’s something to consider if you want a quiet day outdoors.
Rating: 4.5 (2405 reviews)
Location: 790 Hulse Landing Rd, Wading River, NY 11792
Contact: (631) 929-4314
Website: Visit Website
2) Collective Governors Island – A New York City Retreat
I recently spent time at Collective Governors Island, and it felt like a hidden getaway just a short ferry ride from Manhattan. The island has over 170 acres of green space, making it peaceful and quiet compared to the busy city. The tents are stylish yet rustic, with great views of the harbor and skyline.
The experience mixes relaxation with activities. I enjoyed a morning yoga session and took slow bike rides along the pathways. There’s a nice spot called the Sunset Terrace where you can enjoy drinks and live music while watching the sun go down.
The campsite also offers fun evenings around a campfire with s’mores, which adds a simple, cozy touch to the stay. Dining options focus on fresh and tasty food, making it easy to plan a full day without leaving the island. Overall, it’s a calm place to reset while staying close to New York City.
Rating: 4 (144 reviews)
Location: 825 Gresham Rd, New York, NY 10004
Contact: (970) 445-2033
Website: Visit Website
3) Skyline RV Camp
I stayed at Skyline RV Camp recently and found it to be a solid option for RV camping close to New York City. The camp is located in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, which gave me easy access to the city via the NYC Ferry and the G train. This made exploring Manhattan simple without worrying about city driving.
The site offers two campsites: one right on the waterfront with great Manhattan skyline views and another a short walk away next to a local park. I chose the waterfront spot, which felt peaceful while still being in the city. The non-waterfront site is more budget-friendly and near Ferox Ninja Park, which looked like a fun place to visit.
Amenities were good for the price. There’s free WiFi, a water refill station (though no hookups), and clean bathroom facilities with hot showers. They allow pets, which was important to me, and the site is secure with 24/7 monitoring, so I felt safe during my visit.
The camp does not allow tents or power generators, but propane is fine. I appreciated the simple, no-frills setup that works well for RV travelers wanting city access without the usual urban hassles.
Rating: 4.1 (78 reviews)
Location: 1 Noble St, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Contact: (347) 434-6891
Website: Visit Website
4) Beaver Pond Campground
I recently spent time at Beaver Pond Campground, and it impressed me with its relaxed setting near Lake Welch in Harriman State Park. The campground has tent, trailer, and vehicle spots, all surrounded by trees. There’s a beach nearby, which was perfect for a quick swim and some downtime.
The sites come with fire rings and picnic tables, making it easy to cook outdoors and enjoy meals by the campfire. I noticed clean showers available, which made freshening up simple after a day outdoors. The park staff provide bear safety guidelines, so I kept my area clean and stored trash properly to avoid any encounters.
Making a reservation here is straightforward, and you can book up to nine months in advance. The campground fills up quickly on weekends, so I recommend planning ahead. Same-day reservations are possible but only until 3 PM on your arrival day. Overall, it’s a solid choice if you want a peaceful place close to New York City with plenty of nature.
Rating: 4.2 (539 reviews)
Location: 700 Kanawauke Rd, Stony Point, NY
Contact: (845) 947-2792
Website: Visit Website
5) Battle Row Campground
I found Battle Row Campground to be a quiet spot for camping not far from New York City. The campsites are well spaced, giving a good sense of privacy even when the place is busy. It’s a nice mix of trees and open areas, perfect for setting up a tent or parking an RV.
The campground feels easy to navigate, with clear paths and helpful signs. Basic amenities like bathrooms and water stations are available and well maintained. I liked that it wasn’t crowded, but there was enough activity to feel safe and social if you want.
The location is convenient for day trips to nearby parks or towns. I enjoyed the peaceful setting after the drive in from the city. It’s a solid option if you want a natural break without going too far.
Rating: 4.1 (187 reviews)
Location: 1 Claremont Rd, Old Bethpage, NY 11804
Contact: (516) 572-8690
Website: Visit Website
Frequently Asked Questions
Camping near New York City offers a mix of family spots, tent camping, RV sites, and quick escapes into nature. Locations like Wildwood State Park and Beaver Pond Campground provide strong options for different kinds of campers.
What are the top family-friendly campgrounds near New York City?
Wildwood State Park is great for families with its clean facilities and easy access to the beach. Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park also caters well to families, offering trails and quiet surroundings.
Which campgrounds offer the best tent camping experiences in New York State?
Battle Row Campground is popular for tent camping because it’s remote enough to feel like you’re in nature but close to the city. Beaver Pond Campground is another solid choice, with well-maintained tent sites.
Where can I find RV-friendly camping facilities near New York City?
Skyline RV Camp is designed for RV campers wanting comfort and convenience near the city. Liberty Harbor RV Park also offers easy access for RV travelers.
What is the most acclaimed campground within a short distance from New York City?
Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park is often ranked highest for its natural beauty and accessibility, about an hour from New York City.
Can you provide a map of the most recommended campgrounds in New York State?
While I don’t have a map here, you can find detailed campground locations and maps at sites like The Dyrt’s guide to New York campgrounds.
What are the prime locations for camping near New York City for nature enthusiasts?
Beaver Pond Campground and Battle Row Campground offer peaceful forest settings. Wildwood State Park also appeals for its mix of water and woodland environments close to the city.
