Discover The 21 Absolute Best Camping in New York City
"Camping in NYC" provides a unique urban adventure, offering a chance to connect with nature amidst the city's bustling streets. With designated campsites in parks and nearby getaways, experience the great outdoors, enjoy outdoor activities, and create memorable moments, all while staying in the world's greatest city. So, pack your gear and discover the unexpected joy of "camping in NYC".
- 1. Hither Hills State Park
- 2. Harriman State Park
- 3. North/South Lake Campground
- 4. Wildwood State Park
- 5. Taughannock Falls State Park
- 6. Fahnestock State Park
- 7. Collective Governors Island - A New York City Retreat
- 8. Buttermilk Falls State Park
- 9. Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds Inc
- 10. Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground
- 11. Beaver Pond Campground
- 12. Niagara Falls / Grand Island KOA Holiday
- 13. Watkins Glen State Park Six Nations Camping Area
- 14. Taconic State Park
- 15. Lake George Camping Village
- 16. Cedar Point County Park
- 17. Lackawanna State Park
- 18. Watch Hill Fire Island Campground & Safari Tent Glamping
- 19. Malouf's Mountain Campground
- 20. Kittatinny Canoes - K-Camp
- 21. Peekamoose Mountain
1. Hither Hills State Park
Home to the famous 'Walking Dunes', a unique geological formation

Hither Hills State Park in Montauk is known for its beautiful and clean beach, despite the presence of ticks. The waves can be quite large, making it challenging for smaller or older individuals to enjoy the water. Heavy storms are a common occurrence, which is something to consider when camping. Despite this, the park offers spacious campsites with convenient concrete slabs.
Rated 9.2 out of 10, Hither Hills State Park is a popular destination for campers, offering a range of RV sites and campsites, as well as 4x4 access. The park provides the unique experience of having a campfire on the beach or surf/surf fishing on the other side of the dunes. Additionally, campers can access clean bathrooms and shower facilities, as well as a general store and air pumps for tires.
2. Harriman State Park
Largest state park in the NY metropolitan area with over 31 lakes and reservoirs

Harriman State Park, located in Stony Point, NY, is a large park that offers various activities such as hiking, barbecuing, swimming, and canoeing. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful natural scenery, making it an ideal spot for family relaxation and rejuvenation. The park's facilities, including restrooms, are well-maintained and rate favorably among guests.
I had an incredible weekend at Harriman State Park, particularly at Beaver Pond. The park's various activities catered to the whole family's interests, and we left feeling refreshed. The serene beauty of nature at Beaver Pond was awe-inspiring, making it an ideal location for escaping the hustle and bustle of daily life. It is no surprise that many visitors also hold the park's facilities and restrooms in high regard. Overall, Harriman State Park is a highly recommended site for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty.
3. North/South Lake Campground
Located near the stunning North-South Lake and surrounded by the breathtaking Catskill Mountains

North-South Lake is the largest and most visited state campground in the Catskill Forest Preserve. Its popularity stems from the exceptional scenic views and historical sites it offers. Families and tourists are drawn to this location for its wide range of outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and non-motorized boating.
The campground is an ideal setting for a family camping trip, providing a variety of recreational opportunities. Its breathtaking scenery and peaceful surroundings create a perfect ambiance for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Apart from camping, hiking, and boating, visitors can also explore historical sites and enjoy the great outdoors in the heart of the Catskill Forest Preserve.
4. Wildwood State Park
Features a beautiful 600-foot sandy beach on Long Island Sound

Wildwood State Park in Wading River, New York is a highly-rated campground, with a rating of 8.4 out of 1
5. Taughannock Falls State Park
The falls are taller than Niagara Falls!

A cabin with a lake view was rented for 2 nights in Taughannock Falls State Park. The park offers a variety of activities such as walking the Gorge Trail and North Rim Trail, riding bikes on the Black Diamond Trail, and enjoying the scenic views of the area. The cabin was rustic but clean and well-maintained, providing all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay.
The state park is not only a great destination in warmer months but also in winter, with activities such as cross-country skiing, sledding, and skating. The picturesque Cayuga Lake, which runs through the park, features a marina and a beach, adding to the array of activities available. Cabins and campsites are situated along the lake, providing stunning views of the surrounding area.
6. Fahnestock State Park
Spans over 14,000 acres of land, making it one of the largest state parks in New York

Clarence Fahnestock State Park in New York offers a very rustic camping experience, with no hookups and a road that is in poor condition, featuring dirt roads and potholes. The shower facilities are dirty and have a lot of bugs, making for a less than ideal experience, although the water is warm. However, the bathrooms are clean, and there is a sink available for washing dishes. The park features peaceful campsites, nice trails around the lake, and it is easy to check in and purchase firewood.
My experience at Clarence Fahnestock State Park was limited to an overnight stay, during which I slept in my van. Despite the issues with the shower facilities, I enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere and the clean bathrooms. The nearby trail around the lake was a nice touch, providing a scenic spot for a morning walk. The ease of checking in and purchasing firewood made the experience even more enjoyable. I would highly recommend this campground to others seeking a rustic camping experience.
7. Collective Governors Island - A New York City Retreat

A memorable experience was had by all at Collective Retreats on Governor's Island, where luxury and nature met. The spacious tent provided a comfortable stay, complete with a king-sized bed, soft sheets, and seating areas both indoors and out. The outdoor seating area offered a stunning view of the boats passing by Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty as the sun set.
Over the Labor Day weekend, a wonderful time was spent by families at Collective Retreats on Governors Island. Although there were initial concerns about the kid-friendliness of the retreat, those worries were quickly laid to rest as there were many other families with young children during the stay. The glamping experience turned out to be an enjoyable and memorable one for families with children of all ages.
8. Buttermilk Falls State Park
Features a stunning 150-foot waterfall and is open year-round for outdoor activities.

Nestled in a serene location, the newly built cabin provided a memorable stay, despite the rain. Although the bathrooms were due for an update, the overall experience was positive and enjoyable. The campground's proximity to downtown Ithaca offered convenience, while its secluded and peaceful atmosphere made it a perfect hideaway. The falls and trail system on the campground were stunning, offering opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
The campsites, mostly flat and spacious, could accommodate a van with ease, but larger recreational vehicles might face difficulties. With nearly all campsites offering ample space, the area provided a comfortable and relaxed camping experience, all while being just a short 10-minute drive from downtown Ithaca's vibrant atmosphere.
9. Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds Inc
A family-owned campground with a peaceful and natural setting in the Catskill Mountains of New York

Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds offers a fantastic camping experience for its visitors. The campground sites are spacious, well-maintained, and surrounded by a friendly and helpful staff. It is highly recommended for families looking for a great camping trip.
The campground features various activities for kids and clean facilities that make it perfect for families. Visitors can enjoy a memorable camping experience with spacious sites and well-maintained amenities, making it a great destination for a family getaway. Overall, Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds offers an excellent family-friendly camping experience that visitors will not forget.
10. Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground

The campsite was disappointing and overpriced at $36 per night. The campsites are small and closely packed together, with walk-in sites available.
Despite the disappointment, the campsite offered some positive features. The showers were hot and lasted for 8 minutes, costing $0.25 per minute. The kitchen is communal, though the fridge needs to be kept clean. There are also two inverted climbing walls available for practice.
11. Beaver Pond Campground
Family-friendly atmosphere and a peaceful getaway from city life

Beaver Pond Campground is a camping ground that offers sites for both tents and RVs, along with other outdoor activities. The campground features over 120 campsites, some of which are platform sites and others are simple pull-in sites. All sites come equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. It's worth noting that the platform sites are located in close proximity to each other. Additionally, almost all of the sites offer either partial or full shade. On-site amenities include showers, bathrooms, and a dump station. Visitors can also enjoy a swimming beach and boat launch.
The campground's setting provides a perfect getaway for nature lovers, with a variety of outdoor activities to choose from. The platform sites, while convenient, may be a bit too close for some campers. However, the abundance of shade at almost all sites is a welcome feature. The swimming beach and boat launch offer opportunities for water-based activities, adding to the campground's appeal. Overall, Beaver Pond Campground is a great option for those seeking a camping experience with a range of amenities and outdoor activities.
12. Niagara Falls / Grand Island KOA Holiday
Family-friendly campground with a wide range of activities and amenities.

Niagara Falls / Grand Island KOA Holiday is a campground located at 2570 Grand Island Boulevard, Grand Island, NY 14072. For inquiries on pricing, directions, or reservations, guests can contact the campground by phone at (716) 773-7583. Staying at the Niagara Falls/Grand Island KOA campsite provides a unique and memorable experience, perfect for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the area. One of the main attractions nearby is Niagara Falls, which is located just 7 miles away, offering many activities for visitors to enjoy.
The Niagara Falls/Grand Island KOA campsite is equipped with various amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. These amenities include a pool, hot tub, bike rentals, and a game room. The campground also offers a variety of accommodation options, including RV sites, tent sites, and cabin rentals. With its convenient location near Niagara Falls and top-notch facilities, the Niagara Falls/Grand Island KOA campsite is an excellent choice for families, groups, or individuals seeking an unforgettable camping experience.
13. Watkins Glen State Park Six Nations Camping Area
Surrounded by waterfalls and nestled in a gorge

Watkins Glen State Park offers a camping area that is easy to access, clean, and free of charge. The camping experience is highly recommended, with nature lovers particularly enjoying the beautiful scenery. Campers will find the facilities well-maintained, making for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
The camping area at Watkins Glen State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fantastic camping experience. With clean facilities and stunning surroundings, nature enthusiasts will be in awe of this campsite. It is no surprise that the reviewer plans to return, as Watkins Glen State Park provides an exceptional camping experience.
14. Taconic State Park
Home to the largest and tallest waterfall in the Taconic Range

After a series of calls, it was determined that Taconic State Park had 9 available campsites, but reservations couldn't be made and it was necessary to arrive first-come-first-served. Upon arrival, only 3 sites were still unoccupied. The campground was noticeably diverse, but lacked the usual friendliness found in other parks.
Just returned from a camping trip at Taconic State Park and had a great experience. The campground is well-maintained with clean facilities, including baths and showers. There are numerous hiking trails suitable for various skill levels, and Bash Bish Falls can be reached with a short hike (3/4 - 1.5 miles depending on the starting point). Overall, it's a nice campground for families with children.
15. Lake George Camping Village
Offers a classic camping experience with a variety of accommodation options and easy access to Lake George's activities.

Lake George Camping Village, located in Lake George, New York, has a rating of 5.9 out of 10 based on 38 reviews on RV LIFE Campground Reviews. The campground offers many amenities including a pool, game room, shop, and free coffee. The tent sites are situated up a hill, which may result in a slight slant, but they are generally level. The bathrooms are located nearby, and while not extremely clean, they are acceptable for a campground, especially given how busy it can get.
In addition to the amenities and bathrooms, there are also several tips from fellow RVers to consider. One tip suggests requesting a site away from the road as it can be noisy. Another tip mentions that the campground Wi-Fi is spotty, so it may be necessary to use a personal hotspot. There are also a few mentions of the campground being busy and crowded, especially during peak season, but that the staff is friendly and helpful. Overall, Lake George Camping Village offers a variety of amenities and is a decent option for those camping in the area.
16. Cedar Point County Park
A peaceful and scenic park perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Cedar Point County Park is a large campground that isn't often very full, making it a great spot to camp in the Hamptons. While there is plenty of potential for the park, it can be overlooked by the county. During the week, the campground is very quiet, making it an ideal location for those looking for a peaceful getaway. However, there is no designated tent camping area, and the campsites are interspersed with RVs, some of which have loud generators.
I stayed at Cedar Point County Park in a motorhome for seven days, as I wanted to be near family in the area. While I wasn't aware at the time of booking that there wasn't a designated tent camping area, I soon discovered that tent campers may find themselves next to RVs with noisy generators. Unfortunately, after the first night, I decided to cancel the rest of my trip, but was informed that the booking was non-refundable.
17. Lackawanna State Park
A perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts

Lackawanna State Park is a great destination for those who love being surrounded by nature, as it features a multitude of trees and sizable sites. It is recommended to call the park in advance and get site recommendations based on your specific needs, especially if you have a large rig. The park is actively patrolled by friendly and helpful rangers.
Lackawanna State Park, located in Dalton, Pennsylvania, has received 36 reviews, 26 photos, and 9 tips from fellow RVers on RV LIFE Campground Reviews, resulting in a rating of 7.5 out of 10. This suggests that the park is a good choice for RVers, offering a enjoyable and comfortable camping experience. However, it is always a good idea to do your own research and consider your personal preferences when choosing a campground.
18. Watch Hill Fire Island Campground & Safari Tent Glamping

Sure trees are cool, but what about waking up to a view of the sunrise over the ocean? Then you'll want to set up camp at Watch Hill Campground on Fire Island. In total, the campground offers 20 sandy tent sites, 6 glamping sites and 1 group site. Campers must take a ferry to reach the property, which can be booked through LoveFins.com. Additional camping options include backcountry camping, which can be reserved online.
19. Malouf's Mountain Campground

Malouf's Campground offers a fantastic experience, accessible by bike, and located within a day's cycle ride of New York City. The campground is clean, friendly, and well-run, with excellent hosts and a beautiful view. It is nestled in mountainous terrain, offering hiking trails for campers to explore.
The campground is unique, as it does not have car access, making it unsuitable for RVs. It is situated on the Fishkill Ridge, approximately 5 miles from the Beacon Train Station. Campers can reach the campground by hiking through one of the three access points. Despite the lack of vehicle access, the campground's location and amenities make it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in nature.
20. Kittatinny Canoes - K-Camp
A unique opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy various river activities.

The author had the most dreadful camping experience ever at a site overlooking a major highway, especially since they had an RV. To make matters worse, the facilities were disappointing. The zip line and paintball attractions were closed, and there was a shortage of staff. Moreover, the grass was so high it reached their calves.
Alternatively, Kittatinny Canoes provides a range of daily trips for both experienced and novice paddlers. One can choose from rafting, canoeing, kayaking, tubing, or calmwater and whitewater options to suit their preference and skill level. Unlike a water park, Kittatinny Canoes offers a chance to connect with nature closely.
21. Peekamoose Mountain

Campgrounds at Peekamoose Mountain are for those who really want to have a great time in nature. Since camping is free, don't expect the usual amenities that come with those other tacky campgrounds. No, at Peekamoose, few of the sites are accessible by vehicle, there are no pre-installed grills, and don't even think about asking for hot showers. This is a primitive camp, so go here if you feel the need to remind your friends that you were almost an Eagle Scout.