If you enjoy camping with the kids and are on the hunt for family-friendly campsites near New York, we’ve picked out some brilliant spots to pitch a tent with the family, all within easy reach of the city.
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Family Friendly Campsites Near New York City
Not far from the Big Apple, there’s a whole world of camping, canoeing, hiking, and exploring waiting to keep the kids busy and entertained.
For gorgeous, breathtaking landscapes, a visit to the Hudson River Valley or the Catskills should be on your list. Head west toward the Finger Lakes and you can pitch the tent down in the valley, or go north to the Adirondacks, where you’ll find lush state parks and national forests with endless mountain trails and plenty of peace and quiet.
You can also book a campsite or rent a cabin along the shores of Lake George, which is ideal for water sports, boating, or just a good day at the beach.
Beautiful campsites are one of the many reasons to love a family camping trip near New York. Here are eight family-friendly campsites near New York City that the whole family will enjoy.
#1. Croton Point Park
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For many city dwellers, this park is one of the most beautiful and convenient camping options around. Hop on Metro-North at Grand Central Station and take the train to Croton-Harmon, which is around half a mile from Croton Point Park.
Croton Point Park sits on a beautiful peninsula in the Hudson River. The park offers tent camping alongside plenty of other family activities — think hiking, swimming, and even tours of local wineries.
#2. Floyd Bennett Field aka Camp Gateway
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This Brooklyn gem, also known as Camp Getaway, sits at the edge of Jamaica Bay, with a public bus taking you right to the park entrance — handy if you don’t have a car.
Floyd Bennett Field is a great place to enjoy a campfire with the family and sleep under the stars. Each camping site comes with basic amenities such as drinking water, grills, campfire rings, picnic areas, and rubbish collection, plus there’s space for RV parking too.
Camping sites here tend to fill up quickly, so check Recreation.gov for current availability and to book in advance.
#3. Hither Hills State Park
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Hither Hills sits right on the ocean and offers the perfect wake-up call from the tent — the sound of waves rolling in each morning. If you’re not driving, take the LIRR to Montauk, then hike the short distance or grab a cab to the campground.
Kids will love hiking the dunes of Napeague Harbor, and there are lovely walks through oak, pine, shad, and Russian olive trees. Fishing is possible year-round with the right permit.
#4. Fort Wadsworth
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Campers at Fort Wadsworth get breathtaking views of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, Manhattan, and the Statue of Liberty right from their tents.
This park also has beaches for fishing and swimming, playgrounds, birding spots, and tours of the historic Revolutionary War-era fort. Do bear in mind that on-site showers are typically cold water only.
Getting there is easy — hop on a bus from the Staten Island Ferry. Fort Wadsworth’s camping season and booking windows can change year to year, so check current dates and reservation details before you plan your trip.
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#5. Fahnestock State Park
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Fahnestock State Park stretches over 14,000 acres, with plenty to see and do, including the Hudson River Birding Trail. If you’re into birdwatching, you’ll find a wonderful variety of species here.
Fishing on the calm Canopus Lake is a lovely way to spend an afternoon — you can rent a rowboat from the park office, or bring your own with the right permit.
#6. Saranac Lake Islands
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Fancy falling asleep under a starlit sky on your own island? Head to the Saranac Lake Islands and choose from several islands to camp on.
Saranac Lake is actually a interconnected series of lakes and waterways, and you can reach the village of Saranac Lake from almost anywhere by boat, if that appeals as a way to arrive.
#7. North-South Lake Campground
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North-South Lake Campground is one of the biggest and most popular state campgrounds in the Catskill Forest Preserve, with picturesque scenery and historical sites nearby, including Kaaterskill Falls and Alligator Rock.
Its beauty and range of walks and activities make it a great choice for family trips.
#8. Stephens State Park
This lovely state park has over 800 acres of streams and trails, perfect for nature-loving families. The Musconetcong River offers excellent trout fishing and is regularly stocked with rainbow, brown, and brook trout, making it popular with fly-fishers.
If fishing isn’t your thing, there are also miles of trails for hiking, walking, horseback riding, and mountain biking, making this a well-rounded spot for families.
There you have it — 8 family-friendly campsites within easy reach of New York City, perfect for your next camping trip with the kids.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to go camping near New York City?
Late spring through early autumn tends to be the most popular and comfortable window for family camping near NYC, though exact opening dates vary by park and can change year to year, so it’s worth checking each site’s current season before booking.
Do I need a car to reach these campsites?
Not necessarily. Several of the campsites on this list, including Croton Point Park, Floyd Bennett Field, Hither Hills, and Fort Wadsworth, are reachable using public transport such as Metro-North, the LIRR, or local buses, followed by a short walk or taxi ride.
Do these campsites require advance booking?
Many popular sites, especially closer to the city, fill up quickly during peak season. It’s a good idea to check official booking platforms, such as Recreation.gov or the relevant state park website, well ahead of your planned trip.
Are these campsites suitable for beginner campers?
Yes, most of the parks listed offer amenities like drinking water, picnic areas, and marked trails, making them approachable for families who are new to camping as well as more experienced outdoor lovers.
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