David Go
When you think of New York City, sprawling skyscrapers, bustling streets, and iconic landmarks usually come to mind. But did you know that amidst this urban jungle, there are incredible opportunities to connect with nature and experience the city from a unique perspective? Forget the concrete, and discover the hidden gems where you can pitch a tent or park your RV. New York City, along with its immediate surrounds, offers surprisingly diverse camping options, from traditional wilderness sites to luxurious glamping experiences with unparalleled skyline views. Get ready to trade the city noise for crickets and stars as we unveil the best camping sites in and around New York City, New York.
Ecology Village
Nestled within Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn, Ecology Village offers a unique urban camping experience that connects campers with nature without leaving the city limits. This campground is ideal for families and individuals looking to escape the concrete jungle for a refreshing outdoor adventure. With amenities like restrooms, and being dog and kid-friendly, it provides a convenient and accessible option for those wanting to try camping close to home. It’s an excellent spot for first-time campers or anyone seeking a quick natural getaway, offering a surprising pocket of wilderness amidst the bustling urban landscape. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility and observe local wildlife, making it a truly distinctive camping destination within New York City. [0]
⭐ 4.2 (17 reviews)
Amenities
- ✅ Restrooms
- ✅ Good for Children
- ✅ Allows Dogs
Camp Gateway Brooklyn Tamarak and Goldenrod
Also situated within Floyd Bennett Field, Camp Gateway offers a rustic, tents-only camping experience that immerses visitors in a tree-studded environment. Open seasonally from May to October, this campground provides a genuine outdoor escape for city dwellers. It’s perfect for those who appreciate traditional tent camping and wish to enjoy interpretive programs that connect them with the local ecology and history of the Gateway National Recreation Area. The camp features essential amenities such as restrooms, and welcomes both children and dogs, ensuring a comfortable stay for families. Its accessible location in Brooklyn makes it a prime choice for an authentic camping adventure that feels miles away from the city’s hustle and bustle, yet remains remarkably close. [2]
⭐ 3.7 (91 reviews)
Amenities
- ✅ Restrooms
- ✅ Good for Children
- ✅ Allows Dogs
- ✅ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✅ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Features
- ✅ Tents-only
- ✅ Tree-studded campground
- ✅ Interpretive programs
- ✅ On-site store
Skyline RV Camp – Waterfront
For those who prefer camping with the comforts of an RV, Skyline RV Camp – Waterfront in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, offers an unparalleled experience. This unique RV park boasts stunning waterfront views of the Manhattan skyline, providing a breathtaking backdrop to your urban outdoor getaway. It’s a fantastic base for exploring New York City, allowing campers to easily access all major attractions while enjoying the convenience of their own mobile home. The camp is dog-friendly and provides essential amenities like restrooms and Wi-Fi, making it a comfortable and connected choice for travelers. Ideal for RV enthusiasts seeking both urban adventure and scenic tranquility, this camp truly delivers a memorable NYC experience. [3]
⭐ 4.1 (121 reviews)
Amenities
- ✅ Restrooms
- ✅ Wifi
- ✅ Allows Dogs
- ✅ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✅ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✅ Wheelchair accessible restroom
- ✅ Wheelchair accessible seating
Payment
- ✅ Credit Card
- ✅ Debit Card
Pouch Scout Camp Camporee Field
Located on Staten Island, Pouch Scout Camp offers a sprawling natural retreat that feels far removed from the city’s hustle, yet is still within New York City limits. Primarily serving scout groups, its Camporee Field also provides a robust camping environment suitable for various outdoor activities. This camp is renowned for its well-maintained grounds and a strong connection to nature, offering a peaceful setting for camping, hiking, and exploring. With amenities such as restrooms and being good for children, it’s an ideal spot for families or groups seeking a traditional camping experience with ample space for recreation. The high rating from numerous reviews speaks to its quality and popularity among those looking for a quiet escape. [4]
⭐ 4.6 (71 reviews)
Amenities
- ✅ Restrooms
- ✅ Good for Children
- ✅ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✅ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Liberty Harbor RV Park
While technically in Jersey City, New Jersey, Liberty Harbor RV Park offers an exceptional “New York City camping” experience due to its direct access to Manhattan via ferry and breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and the NYC skyline. This urban RV park is perfect for travelers who want to explore the Big Apple during the day and return to a peaceful, scenic spot at night. It accommodates both RVs and a small area for tents, making it versatile for various campers. Essential amenities like restrooms, Wi-Fi, and dog-friendliness ensure a comfortable stay. Its prime location makes it an unrivaled choice for convenience and iconic views, offering a truly unique perspective on NYC. [8]
⭐ 3.9 (953 reviews)
Amenities
- ✅ Restrooms
- ✅ Wifi
- ✅ Allows Dogs
- ✅ Seasonal eatery
- ✅ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✅ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Payment
- ✅ Credit Card
- ✅ Debit Card
Collective Retreats Governors Island
For a truly luxurious and distinctive camping experience within New York City, Collective Retreats on Governors Island offers upscale glamping with stunning harbor views. This isn’t your traditional roughing-it campground; instead, guests can enjoy rustic-chic tents equipped with modern comforts, including private bathrooms and comfortable bedding. It provides an exclusive escape where you can wake up to the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty, yet feel completely immersed in nature. The retreat also features on-site dining and communal campfires, creating a resort-like atmosphere. Ideal for those seeking a unique blend of urban sophistication and outdoor serenity, it’s a memorable way to experience NYC from a fresh, luxurious perspective. [10]
⭐ 4.1 (198 reviews)
Amenities
- ✅ Wifi
- ✅ Good for Children
- ✅ On-site dining
- ✅ Campfire
Features
- ✅ Upscale campsite
- ✅ Rustic-chic tents
- ✅ Harbor views
From the rugged charm of urban wilderness parks in Brooklyn to the luxurious glamping experience on Governors Island, New York City offers a surprisingly diverse array of camping opportunities. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoors enthusiast or a city dweller looking for a unique weekend escape, these sites provide a refreshing change of pace and a chance to see the Big Apple from an entirely new angle. So pack your bags, leave the city’s hustle behind, and embark on an unforgettable outdoor adventure right here in New York City. The stars, and perhaps even the Manhattan skyline, await!
