First Time Camping? Rent Gear in NYC and Hit the Outdoors Without the Hassle
Camping sounds like an incredible adventure — until you start adding up the cost of gear. But here’s the good news for NYC locals: you don’t need to own a tent or even a car to have an unforgettable first camping experience.
Whether you live in Brooklyn, Manhattan, or Queens, renting camping gear is the most affordable, beginner-friendly way to get outside. We make it easy to pick up high-quality gear right here in NYC — so you can explore trails, toast marshmallows, catch fall foliage, or even hit a music festival without breaking the bank (or cluttering your apartment closet).
If you're new to camping and don’t want to commit to expensive gear, renting is the perfect way to test the waters. Here’s exactly how to have an amazing first camping trip without the stress or the splurge.
Why Renting Camping Gear Makes Sense
Save Money – A full setup can cost $500+. Renting saves big on your first trip.
No Storage Needed – NYC apartments aren’t made for bulky gear. Rent it, return it.
Less Research, More Relaxation – We’ve curated the essentials so you don’t have to.
Festival-Ready – Our lightweight tents, bags, and pads are perfect for outdoor events.
Try Before You Buy – Unsure if camping is your thing? Test the waters affordably.
👉 Check out our Camping Gear Rental FAQs for all the details.
What Gear Do You Actually Need?
Tent – A quality, weatherproof tent can cost $250+, but you can rent one for much less. Ours comfortably fit up to four people, set up in minutes, and are festival-friendly.
Sleeping Bag – Stay warm and comfortable with a bag rated for three-season camping. Renting means you don’t have to guess which one you need for the season.
Sleeping Pad – This often-forgotten item makes a huge difference in comfort and insulation. Ours self-inflate for easy setup.
Cooking Gear – If you’re planning to cook, you might be tempted to get all the latest in outdoor cooking gear, but you only need the essentials for a fun first trip. If your campground has a fire pit, you’ll just need a spatula, frying pan, some plates and cutlery - all from your own kitchen cabinets. No fire pit? A backpacking mini stove can cook soup, coffee, even bacon and eggs. And it’s always handy to have in case the rain washes out your over-the-fire grilling plans.
👉 Want recipe ideas? Check out our campfire cooking blogs.
Lighting & Extras – A lantern or headlamp is key for navigating after dark. We also recommend bug spray and a cooler for food and drinks. Most campgrounds have a picnic table, but if you want to sit close to the fire, a camp chair is a great addition to your gear.
Where to Go Camping Near NYC Without a Car
Not sure where to start? Many campgrounds near NYC are transit-friendly, so you don’t need a car to escape into nature:
Harriman State Park – Just an hour away, with lakeside views and beginner-friendly campgrounds.
Hudson Highlands – Easy hikes, Metro-North access, and unbeatable fall foliage.
Fahnestock State Park – Peaceful and family-friendly with lake access for swimming and paddling.
Delaware Water Gap – Forested river valleys and waterfalls, perfect for a weekend trip.
Hipcamp Sites – Some private hosts list unique campsites accessible by train or rideshare.
🍂 Pro Tip: September and October are prime for fall foliage — book early for the best sites!
Rent Camping Gear in Brooklyn and Go!
Whether you're heading upstate with friends, catching the train to a state park, or packing for a music festival, our easy NYC gear rentals make it simple.
Pickup Location: Bond Collective, 276 Greenpoint Ave, Brooklyn (look for the glass awning at Greenpoint & Provost).
Pickup Times: Wednesday evenings
Drop-Off Times: Monday evenings
(Need something different? Reach out before booking!)
👉 Reserve your camping gear here.
Want Extra Help? Join a Guided Event
If planning it all yourself still feels overwhelming, skip the hassle and join one of our upcoming Catskills campouts. With us, you don’t have to worry about the logistics that usually trip up first-time campers — we provide a beautiful campground with amenities (like a clean outhouse and outdoor shower), hearty chef-prepared meals, campfires, dishes and cleanup, and even curated activity suggestions for your free time.
All you need to do is rent your tent, sleeping bag, and pad — and we’ll even teach you how to set them up, so you feel confident and prepared for your next solo adventure.
Mountain Cruisin’ | Sept 12–14, 2025 → scenic rides, fall flavors, and fireside community.
Autumn Glow | Oct 3–5, 2025 → cozy foliage getaway with hearty meals and campfire hangs.
It’s the best of both worlds: a full camping experience without the overwhelm — plus the chance to learn the skills you’ll need for future adventures.
The Bottom Line
Camping doesn’t have to be expensive or intimidating. Renting makes it affordable, easy, and fun — so your first trip is all about adventure, not stress.
👉 Ready to give it a try?
The campfire (and the s’mores) are waiting!
