New York National Park Campgrounds

By Ryan Wilson

Updated:
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New York National Park Campgrounds

New York is known for its bustling city streets and towering skyscrapers, but beyond the city limits lies a wealth of natural beauty waiting to be explored. One of the best ways to experience the great outdoors in New York is by camping at one of the New York National Park Campgrounds.

New York has two National Parks with campgrounds. Camping at New York National Park campgrounds is an affordable and memorable way to experience both the great outdoors and the urban jungle.

With various campsite options, from tent camping to RV camping, these campgrounds provide a unique opportunity to disconnect and recharge in the beauty of nature. Alternatively, numerous New York National Park campgrounds allow you an inexpensive place to stay while you explore all the sites and sounds of New York City.

Below I detail National Parks with campgrounds in New York. I provide an overview of the amenities at each campground in New York National Parks with campgrounds, operating seasons, if advanced reservations are required, and whether they allow RVs and campers.


Fire Island National Seashore Camping

fire island

Fire Island National Seashore, located just a short distance from New York City, offers a wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can explore miles of pristine beaches, or kayak through tranquil waterways.

The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including ospreys, deer, and foxes. With its stunning natural beauty and diverse range of activities, Fire Island National Seashore is the perfect destination for anyone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature.

Of all the New York National Park campgrounds, this park is likely to offer the most serene camping experience.


Watch Hill Fire Island Campground

camping top photo 1
  • Season: May to October
  • Reservations Required: Yes
  • Number of Sites: 27
  • RV Sites: No
  • Restrooms: Yes
  • Showers: Yes
  • Potable Water: Yes
  • Hook-ups: No
  • Dump Station: No
  • Cell Reception: Yes
  • Additional InformationClick here

Where is it located?


Gateway National Recreation Area Camping

gateway NR
NPS Photo

Gateway National Recreation Area is unique among New York National Park campgrounds, offering both outdoor recreation and access to the bustling city of New York. The park boasts miles of sandy beaches, hiking trails, and historic sites that are perfect for exploring.

Visitors can take a dip in the ocean, bike along scenic paths, or learn about the area’s military history at Fort Tilden. Gateway National Recreation Area is also conveniently located near New York City, providing easy access to the city’s many attractions.

With its perfect blend of outdoor adventure and urban excitement, Gateway National Recreation Area is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of both worlds. If you’re interested in camping near New York City, these campgrounds might be your best options!

PLEASE NOTE: Gateway Camp – Brooklyn is closed for the 2023 camping season


Gateway Camp – Staten Island

staten island
NPS Photo
  • Season: Memorial Day to Labor Day
  • Reservations Required: Yes
  • Number of Sites: 7
  • RV Sites: No
  • Restrooms: Yes
  • Showers: Yes
  • Potable Water: Yes
  • Hook-ups: No
  • Dump Station: No
  • Cell Reception: Yes
  • Additional InformationClick here

Where is it located?


Gateway Camp – Brooklyn

brooklyn
NPS Photo
  • Season: April to October
  • Reservations Required: Yes
  • Number of Sites: 53
  • RV Sites: Yes
  • Restrooms: Yes
  • Showers: Yes
  • Potable Water: Yes
  • Hook-ups: No
  • Dump Station: Yes
  • Cell Reception: Yes
  • Additional InformationClick here

Where is it located?


Summary of New York National Park Campgrounds

Camping at New York National Park campgrounds offers the perfect opportunity to immerse oneself in nature while still being within reach of the bustling atmosphere of New York City. With a range of camping options from tent camping to RV camping, these campgrounds provide a unique experience for both seasoned campers and first-time adventurers.

With stunning natural beauty and urban excitement, these New York National Park campgrounds offer a memorable and affordable way to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with the great outdoors.

Want to see what other National Parks have established campgrounds? Check out our page listing all of the National Parks with campgrounds in each state.

Photo of author

Author

Ryan is an avid outdoorsman who loves camping, hiking, and backpacking. He was initially reluctant to join the camper world, but after his first camping trip in one, he became a convert. He especially loves how camper ownership extends the camping season and makes it easier to be more adventurous with young kids. When not enjoying his free time, he works as a professional wildlife biologist studying the ecology and conservation of large mammals in Alaska.