Where to Go Camping Near NYC This Summer: The Best Spots for Warm-Weather Adventures

Camping

May 30

Summer is the season for adventure, and camping near NYC is the perfect way to escape the heat while immersing yourself in nature. Whether you’re looking for a beachside retreat, a rock-climbing challenge, or the perfect group camping getaway, these top spots offer something for every summer camper.

1. Hither Hills State Park – Beach Camping

📍 Location: Montauk, NY
🚆 How to Get There: Take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Montauk, then taxi or bike to the park. Grab the phone number of the taxi driver, so you can call them the next time you want to drive to town or check out one of the local wineries.

Nothing says summer like waking up to ocean waves! Hither Hills offers oceanfront campsites, swimming, surf fishing, and scenic sand dunes. Book early—these campsites fill up fast!

And don’t forget to drive out to Montauk Lighthouse! Walk the pebbly beach and get some great photos too. Don’t have a car?

2. Minnewaska State Park – Rock Climbing & Waterfalls

📍 Location: Shawangunk Ridge, NY
🚗 How to Get There: Best accessed by car; bus options available to New Paltz with a taxi to the park.

If you love rock climbing, swimming holes, and waterfalls, Minnewaska is a must-visit. Camp nearby at Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground, located just minutes from world-class climbing routes.

3. Taconic State Park – Swimming & Hiking

📍 Location: Columbia County, NY
🚆 How to Get There: Metro-North to Wassaic, then taxi or car rental.

Taconic State Park is home to Bash Bish Falls, New York’s highest waterfall, and offers fantastic swimming, hiking, and fishing. Camp at Copake Falls Campground for easy access to trails and cool mountain streams.

4. Kittatinny Campground – River Camping & Water Sports

📍 Location: Delaware River, PA/NJ border
🚗 How to Get There: Best accessed by car; some bus options available.

For kayaking, tubing, and canoeing, Kittatinny Campground is the water lover’s perfect summer getaway. Rent a tube and float down the Delaware River by day, then relax by the campfire at night.

5. Find More Spots on Hipcamp

Looking for unique camping experiences like glamping, farm stays, or private riverfront campsites? Hipcamp has a variety of summer-friendly locations near NYC for a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience. Plus, stay tuned for the launch of our tiny house cabin in the Catskills, a perfect retreat for nature lovers!

6. Basecamp Brooklyn Events- Campouts, Community, and Outdoor Feasts

Looking for a camping experience that goes beyond the ordinary? Join one of our Basecamp Brooklyn events for unforgettable weekends filled with food, firelight, and friends. From chef-led dinners under the stars to fun outdoor adventures in the Catskills, our gatherings are all about reconnecting with nature—and each other.

Whether you're a solo traveler, couple, or group of friends, our events are designed to welcome all experience levels. Just bring your sense of adventure—we’ll handle the rest.

💡 No gear? We’ve got you covered. Gear rentals are available for all events, or you can reserve your setup for your own trip here.

The warm weather won’t last forever—get out there and explore! ☀️🏕️