Camping is a wonderful thing to do. You can breathe fresh air, see stars in the night sky, and listen to the sound of trees and birds. It is very different from the busy city life in NYC, with its tall buildings, loud sounds, and bright lights.
But how can you go camping without a car? You might think that it’s hard, but it’s actually not. You can still have a great camping adventure without needing to drive.
In this article, I will show you some of the best places near NYC where you can go camping without a car.
1. Harriman State Park
How to reach Harriman State Park
You can easily get to Harriman State Park by taking a train from Penn Station in NYC to the Tuxedo or Sloatsburg station. The park is just a short walk from these stations.
Best things to do in Harriman State Park
Harriman State Park is home to over 200 miles of hiking trails, offering an ideal opportunity for nature lovers to explore. You can enjoy a quiet picnic by its lakes, go for a swim, or take part in bird watching. The park also allows overnight camping, so pack your tent and prepare for a peaceful night under the stars.
Camping Places Near Harriman State Park
The park is home to multiple camping options, with more than 200 miles of hiking trails. You can find both lean-tos (three-sided shelters) and designated backcountry camping areas within the park.
Hiking
Harriman State Park boasts over 200 miles of trails. Trails like the Appalachian Trail and Long Path pass through the park. Other popular hikes include trails to landmarks like Lake Skannatati and Bald Rocks.
Wildlife
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, black bears, eastern box turtles, and over 200 species of birds.
2. Malouf’s Mountain Sunset Campground
How to reach Malouf’s Mountain Sunset Campground
To reach Malouf’s Mountain Sunset Campground, take the Metro-North train from Grand Central Station to Beacon. The campground offers a shuttle service from the station to the site.
Best things to do in Malouf’s Mountain Sunset Campground
This is a unique camping destination where the staff transports your gear to your site, leaving you to enjoy a leisurely hike. It provides everything you need for camping including tents, firewood, and cooking gear – you only need to bring food and drinks. Enjoy the hiking trails, barbecue at your site, or just sit back and watch the beautiful sunset over the mountains.
Camping Near Malouf’s Mountain Sunset Campground
The campground offers a range of options, from basic tent sites to platforms and lean-tos. For those who want a bit more comfort, they also have a cabin available. If you don’t have camping gear, no problem! The campground can provide all the necessary equipment. You just need to bring your sleeping bag.
Hiking
There are several beautiful hiking trails that you can explore from the campground. The trails range in difficulty from moderate to difficult. This offers something for every type of hiker, whether you are a beginner or an experienced trekker.
Facilities
The campground provides amenities such as clean restrooms, a communal cooking area, fire pits, picnic tables, and a shuttle service to and from the train station. They also have an on-site store where you can purchase camping supplies and food.
3. Sebago Cabin Camp in Harriman State Park
How to reach Sebago Cabin Camp
Just like the general Harriman State Park area, you can reach the Sebago Cabin Camp via the train to Tuxedo or Sloatsburg station, followed by a short taxi ride.
Best things to do in Sebago Cabin Camp
Sebago Cabin Camp provides a more comfortable camping experience, with furnished cabins, a stove, a fridge, and even a bathroom with showers. You can take advantage of the nearby lake for fishing or boating, go hiking in the surrounding woods, or just relax and enjoy the tranquility.
Camping
Sebago Cabin Camp offers rustic cabin rentals rather than tent camping sites. These cabins are equipped with beds, a stove, and a refrigerator. They can accommodate four to six people, making it ideal for family or group trips.
Hiking and Other Activities
The park features over 200 miles of hiking trails, including part of the Appalachian Trail. There are also two beaches, numerous fishing spots, and a boat launch on Lake Sebago. Winter visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing or ice fishing.
Facilities
Each cabin area has a centrally located bathroom with showers. There is also a camp store that sells basic camping supplies and groceries.
4. Cheesequake State Park, New Jersey
The park spans over 1,600 acres of varied terrain, from saltwater marshes to a hardwood forest.
How to reach Cheesequake State Park: Take the 133 NJ Transit Bus from Port Authority Station to the GSP Exit 120 Park & Ride. From there, hike 1.5 miles to the campground.
Camping Areas Near Cheesequake State Park
Cheesequake State Park offers 53 tent and RV sites, each with fire rings and picnic tables. Cabins and group campsites might be available depending on the time of year and COVID-19 restrictions, so it’s best to check in advance.
Hiking and Other Activities
Cheesequake boasts five marked trails for hiking and mountain biking, a nature center, a lake for fishing, and a beach for swimming. Its diverse habitats make it a unique location for birdwatching.
Facilities
Showers and bathrooms are available and are within walking distance of the campsites. There are also picnic areas with grills.
5. Croton Point Park, Westchester County
How to reach Croton Point Park: Take Metro North to the Croton-Harmon stop.
Camping Areas Near Croton Point Park
The park offers cabins and tent sites for rent on a nightly basis. Nightly cabin rental rates start at $65, while nightly campsite rentals start at $30. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there is limited availability for RV and tent campers, so it’s best to call ahead and confirm space before you make the journey.
Hiking and Other Activities
Activities at the park include hiking trails, a beach, fishing and boat launches, playing fields, and picnic areas. If you are into bird watching, the park is a part of the Hudson River Flyway.
6. Harriman State Park
How to reach Harriman State Park: Take New Jersey Transit to the Tuxedo or Harriman stops.
Best Things to Do in Harriman State Park
The park offers something for everyone. You can hike the many trails or enjoy a day of fishing. For those who love water sports, there are lakes for boating and swimming. During winter, the park also offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. One of the park’s highlights is Island Pond and Lake Skenonto – make sure you pick a clear day to set aside for hiking these trails.
Camping Areas Near Harriman State Park
There are plenty of great spots to camp overnight inside Harriman State Park, but your best bets are the Tom Jones lean-to or Bald Rocks. Campers are currently still able to pitch a tent using their own gear within 300 feet of the park shelters. Just remember to keep your distance from other visitors!
7. Mills Norrie State Park
How to reach: Take Metro North to Poughkeepsie and grab a 15-minute cab from the station.
Camping Areas Near Mills Norrie State Park
Mills Norrie State Park boasts 47 sites for tents and 10 cabins available to rent, nestled in the beautiful woodland setting. The campground is currently open and accepting visitors, but reservations are required—no walk-ins will be accommodated, due to new COVID-19 protocols.
Best Things to Do in Mills Norrie State Park
The park offers many activities like hiking, cycling, skiing, and snowshoeing. If you’ve brought your boat, you can take advantage of the lake access from the campground. The park is also just five minutes from the historic Vanderbilt Estates and Franklin D. Roosevelt’s previous home if you’re interested in local history.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, pick your favorite park, hop on a bus or train, and lose yourself in the beauty of nature. Remember, adventure is just a ride away!
