The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Brooklyn, New York

River camping near Brooklyn draws you in with over 320 options, each putting you close to the water for fishing, swimming, or just soaking up the sound of the current. Expect to pay around $45 a night, with some spots dipping right to that minimum. Campfires are allowed at most sites, showers are common, and pets are welcome, so you can bring the whole crew. For campsites with serious credentials, check out Paradise Valley Homestead (798 reviews), Destination Farnch (99 reviews), and Bare Camping (40 reviews). You’ll find sites set up for horseback-riding, river swims, and long days with a fishing rod. This isn’t just city escape; it’s Brooklyn’s river country, ready to go.

92% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

River camping near Brooklyn draws you in with over 320 options, each putting you close to the water for fishing, swimming, or just soaking up the sound of the current. Expect to pay around $45 a night, with some spots dipping right to that minimum. Campfires are allowed at most sites, showers are common, and pets are welcome, so you can bring the whole crew. For campsites with serious credentials, check out Paradise Valley Homestead (798 reviews), Destination Farnch (99 reviews), and Bare Camping (40 reviews). You’ll find sites set up for horseback-riding, river swims, and long days with a fishing rod. This isn’t just city escape; it’s Brooklyn’s river country, ready to go.

92% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Historical Lake Front Barn

91%

(22)

36mi from Brooklyn · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mendham, NJ

Nestled in the mountainside in Morris County this 10 acre farm estate is home to a plethora of wildlife, small lake, and large brook that runs through the property. The lake is home to native wildlife and the brook is loaded with trout. There are a couple of professionally maintained landscaping areas perfect for camping and firepit. It comes with a firepit, and everything you need for an amazing night out in the wilderness. There are beautiful hiking trails on site as well as right across the way adjacent to the property that are highly regarded in the state. The most secluded property you can imagine, it is home to some truly magnificent wildlife. There is no littering, and absolutely no hunting. As a nature lover, the respect I have shown these animals, is the reason why they love it here. Who knows what you may see! Firewood is available for purchase at the top of the driveway. It is handcut and seasoned for 3 years and stored in a custom hutch. $5 a compartment money goes in the mailbox.

2. Paradise Valley Homestead

99%

(1688)

40mi from Brooklyn · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Oak Ridge, NJ

Always working on improvements! My second glamping site "The Medieval Encampment", is available for booking starting April 1st of 2025. I will have more pictures soon. In April of 2024, my long awaited 1st Glamping site was available for booking. It's been very popular! Please read the description carefully of the "Gypsy Rose Vardo", to see if it's the right fit for you. I also have 10 large camping sites available on our 33 acre property located in Northwest NJ. Sites 1 through 4 are on mowed, fairly level fields and are large enough for campers or RV's up to 30ft, or a couple of tents, and sites 5 and 6 are further back in the woods, available only for a few small tents, sites 7 through 10 are much further into the property and are only accessible with a high clearance AWD or 4WD SUV or you can park and hike your gear in. There are 3 compost toilet outhouses spread out through the property, so it's an easy walking distance from any site. Although we are only 2 1/2 miles from a main highway, the last 2 miles are on a dirt road with no houses. We are surrounded by protected land, so no neighbors and lots of wildlife, including the occasional bear, coyote or raccoon. Keep all food items secured. Because we are surrounded by protected land we are not sprayed for insects, so be safe and do tick checks often and bring the bug spray. We are 45 minutes from NYC or the Delaware Water Gap and an hour away from the NJ shore. There are horse farms nearby that offer trail rides. We are also close to the Highland and Appalachian Hiking trails. There are two reservoirs within a 20-minute drive for canoeing or kayaking. There are walking trails through our property, including a ten-minute hike on a marked trail to a small waterfall in a ravine.

3. Destination Farnch

94%

(142)

47mi from Brooklyn · 2 sites · Tents · Peekskill, NY

The Farnch: A developing Destination Farm Come have a picnic under a tree, spend a few hours and go for a hike in Hudson Highland Gateway Park, a Historic 352-acre park offering hiking, birding, cross-country skiing, fishing & snowshoeing. He have rods and tackle to rent or buy if you don’t have your own. If you’re having a really great time and the kids just don’t want to leave, join us for an evening of sleeping under the stars in the forest at one of our campsites. We also host local Scout Groups, and Appellation Trail hikers. Hikers know that we are located about 1 miles south of the route 9 trail crossing at the Appalachian Market and offer pick up and drop off service from there on weekends. Hudson Valley is a wonderful 4 season go to location and being about an hour away from New York City you won’t spend hours in the car before being able to stretch your legs.

4. Forest Treasure Island

93%

(41)

49mi from Brooklyn · 10 sites · Tents, Lodging · Wilton, CT

Welcome to Our Nature-Loving Farm Retreat in Connecticut Cold season? You will stay still warm in tent💡 Escape to our serene 7-acre where forest, field, low mountains and gentle animals create a peaceful haven just 15-20 min from the ocean in Westport Sherwood, Lake Mohegan in Fairfield + 8 min away local lake with fishing&kayaking Stay in one of our spacious glamping tents or find your own magic in our Freedom of the Forest camping area, or bring your own RV home (upon request) Wake each morning to birdsong and the scent of floral or mushroomy air around . This is amazing I bet you will remember it for long time 😍 Upon request, enjoy a nourishing breakfast brunch or dinner made with our homemade butter, sourdough bread, eggs, foie gras different kind of cheese, pancakes (GF or buckwheat) and seasonal delights ,extra fee applies, and each time menu is different, depending what do we have that day for ourselves. Wander through our organic garden, gather free-range eggs, sip fresh goat milk and forage for wild berries, nuts, figs, wild ramson (March/April) forest herbs in season. Children can play freely in our natural playland with organic sand, a treehouse, and adventure zones, while adults relax with a river stone foot bath and the aroma of cedar. A gentle creek is just a short walk away. Massage services available upon request Our land is shared with friendly goats, ducks, rabbits, goose chickens of rare breeds, peacocks, pigs, chickens, cats, and dogs One dog included next dogs is extra fee applies. Breakfast/brunch is optional and available by request (fee per person). All walking children (ages 2 –12) must be counted as guests; infants are free. Visiting guests to ours campers must be registered and paid for—please contact us in advance. firewood available to purchase We are a peaceful, loving family and kindly ask all guests to bring the same spirit. Aggressive or disrespectful behavior is not welcome, for the safety and well being of ours and other guests. We donate 50% of all proceeds to support children with cancer. If someone in your family is fighting cancer — you’re welcome to stay in our tents free of charge with love and care. 💛 Note: we have animals here you will hear the occasional sounds of peacocks, geese. XO

5. Bare Camping

79%

(68)

39mi from Brooklyn · 6 sites · Tents · Stony Point, NY

Property was bought just as another project. However, after realizing the beautiful surroundings it only made sense to share it with others.

6. 33 Acre Farm And Retreat

100%

(9)

44mi from Brooklyn · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hillsborough, NJ

200 year old Historical farm house, on the Neshanic river in Hillsborough NJ. You can rent the 3 bed 2 bath house or set up your own tent / small RV on the property in one of the 3 large fields we have. Lots to do in the area, hiking, cycling, rock climbing with ninja warrior couurse, lots of country roads for Motorcycle riding. We are near Princeton NJ, Hopewell NJ, Lambertville NJ, New Hope PA, Somerville NJ. All great day tripping spots. There are a few Breweries, Vineyards, Distillery in the area such as Flounder brewing, Bellamara Distillery, Old York Cellars. Sourland Mountain preserve for hiking, Historical Duke farms and much much more! You will come back Again and again!

7. Lincoln Kirstein

83%

(29)

48mi from Brooklyn · 1 site · Tent, RV · Weston, CT

Private compound Close to Merritt Parkway and I95 1 hour from NYC Hidden off the main road 800 ft long single lane driveway Quite camp; peaceful with access to town center grocery and gas station 15-20 minutes to metro north train stations Flat parking for vans and small to medium size rvs Hiking trails and bike jumps on and right of the property 1-mile trail behind house to town center Beautiful birds chirping, wildlife, and nature You will love this spot

Camper favorites near Brooklyn

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Forest Treasure Island

93%

(41)

49mi from Brooklyn · 10 sites · Tents, Lodging · Wilton, CT

Welcome to Our Nature-Loving Farm Retreat in Connecticut Cold season? You will stay still warm in tent💡 Escape to our serene 7-acre where forest, field, low mountains and gentle animals create a peaceful haven just 15-20 min from the ocean in Westport Sherwood, Lake Mohegan in Fairfield + 8 min away local lake with fishing&kayaking Stay in one of our spacious glamping tents or find your own magic in our Freedom of the Forest camping area, or bring your own RV home (upon request) Wake each morning to birdsong and the scent of floral or mushroomy air around . This is amazing I bet you will remember it for long time 😍 Upon request, enjoy a nourishing breakfast brunch or dinner made with our homemade butter, sourdough bread, eggs, foie gras different kind of cheese, pancakes (GF or buckwheat) and seasonal delights ,extra fee applies, and each time menu is different, depending what do we have that day for ourselves. Wander through our organic garden, gather free-range eggs, sip fresh goat milk and forage for wild berries, nuts, figs, wild ramson (March/April) forest herbs in season. Children can play freely in our natural playland with organic sand, a treehouse, and adventure zones, while adults relax with a river stone foot bath and the aroma of cedar. A gentle creek is just a short walk away. Massage services available upon request Our land is shared with friendly goats, ducks, rabbits, goose chickens of rare breeds, peacocks, pigs, chickens, cats, and dogs One dog included next dogs is extra fee applies. Breakfast/brunch is optional and available by request (fee per person). All walking children (ages 2 –12) must be counted as guests; infants are free. Visiting guests to ours campers must be registered and paid for—please contact us in advance. firewood available to purchase We are a peaceful, loving family and kindly ask all guests to bring the same spirit. Aggressive or disrespectful behavior is not welcome, for the safety and well being of ours and other guests. We donate 50% of all proceeds to support children with cancer. If someone in your family is fighting cancer — you’re welcome to stay in our tents free of charge with love and care. 💛 Note: we have animals here you will hear the occasional sounds of peacocks, geese. XO

Bare Camping

79%

(68)

39mi from Brooklyn · 6 sites · Tents · Stony Point, NY

Property was bought just as another project. However, after realizing the beautiful surroundings it only made sense to share it with others.

33 Acre Farm And Retreat

100%

(9)

44mi from Brooklyn · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hillsborough, NJ

200 year old Historical farm house, on the Neshanic river in Hillsborough NJ. You can rent the 3 bed 2 bath house or set up your own tent / small RV on the property in one of the 3 large fields we have. Lots to do in the area, hiking, cycling, rock climbing with ninja warrior couurse, lots of country roads for Motorcycle riding. We are near Princeton NJ, Hopewell NJ, Lambertville NJ, New Hope PA, Somerville NJ. All great day tripping spots. There are a few Breweries, Vineyards, Distillery in the area such as Flounder brewing, Bellamara Distillery, Old York Cellars. Sourland Mountain preserve for hiking, Historical Duke farms and much much more! You will come back Again and again!

Lincoln Kirstein

83%

(29)

48mi from Brooklyn · 1 site · Tent, RV · Weston, CT

Private compound Close to Merritt Parkway and I95 1 hour from NYC Hidden off the main road 800 ft long single lane driveway Quite camp; peaceful with access to town center grocery and gas station 15-20 minutes to metro north train stations Flat parking for vans and small to medium size rvs Hiking trails and bike jumps on and right of the property 1-mile trail behind house to town center Beautiful birds chirping, wildlife, and nature You will love this spot

Public campgrounds near Brooklyn

83%

(6)

Cheesequake Campground

22mi from Brooklyn · 59 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cheesequake State Park

79%

(7)

Allaire Campground

36mi from Brooklyn · 55 sites · Tents, RVs · in Allaire State Park

77%

(15)

Beaver Pond Campgrounds

40mi from Brooklyn · 137 sites · Tents, RVs · in Harriman State Park

88%

(4)

Stephens State Campground

47mi from Brooklyn · 39 sites · Tents, RVs · in Stephens State Park

100%

(4)

Kittatinny Valley Campground

48mi from Brooklyn · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kittatinny Valley State Park

Stories from the community

C

Carens

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Paradise Valley Homestead

Our campsite was beautiful and clean as always. Especially greatful that our campsite had a chopping block making it easy for us to split logs for our wood stove. We’ll definitely be returning soon.

Mordechai

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Paradise Valley Homestead

Another great trip to Kathleen’s property. Was surprised to wake up to snow on the ground. But how pretty, definitely recommend you check it out even if it’s winter time it’s beautiful. Plenty of firewood to keep your warm.

T

Tiffany

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Paradise Valley Homestead

Only 1.5 hours from NYC but you truly feel like you’re away from the city and in the quiet serene woods. Kathy was an amazing host and checked in on us to make sure we were comfortable. We were on site 9 which was very isolated and spacious enough to fit all of our needs. Everything was also clean and the trails were marked and easy to follow. There’s also firewood for purchase if needed. I would highly recommend and will be coming back!

A

Asher

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Paradise Valley Homestead

We had a wonderful 2 night stay in early November. And really affordable too! Kathleen met us at the entrance and led us to site 10. She was welcoming, entertaining, and helpful, and also answered my call and gave directions when I was lost the first evening. As mentioned in the description, we certainly needed a SUV (Mazda with 7.5 inches of ground clearance) to get to the site and made sure to take it slow and drive our wheel over rather than straddling big rocks. Site 10 is extremely secluded past all the other ones, with a beautiful view of the ridge since the leaves have fallen off the trees near the site. It was large with a nice flat part up at the top where one of us camped, and a stone campfire pit and space for several more tents and tables. It was very peaceful and beautiful and we could hear the waterfall. The outhouse was a couple of mins walk away and was very nice. Having wood to purchase at the entrance was nice too. One of my favorite parts was exploring the beautiful trails around the property. Make sure to check out the waterfall and also take a right at that sign and check out the pond and more! We hope to be back again soon! What a wonderful place and time we had!

Z

Zahava

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Paradise Valley Homestead

Kathy was an incredible host and her land is a true haven - a real paradise. I felt so safe and comfortable able to deeply relax amongst the trees. She was so attentive and caring but also made sure I had the most quiet peaceful alone time that I needed. Already looking forward to coming again and experiencing other spots too each one felt so special and unique. So much gratitude for my time there.

Bathing hole on property was perfect for cooling down on a hot day

Chelsea

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at Destination Farnch

Phoenix Landing is the optimal camping spot for my partner and I (and cat). Though it was just the two of us, we had no issues with the camp site and felt very safe in the area. We decided to camp out there while enjoying Halloween festivities along the Hudson. The forest/stream, on the property is beautiful and there are many trails to explore. We brought our cat who loves walking outdoors on a harness & leash - we stayed very vigilant with her, but thankfully the most we encountered was a buck during our trip (1st week of Nov.). Mike's directions are very thorough and clear - DEFINITELY read his instructions for finding the property at first. He also provides a lot of supplies if needed, especially firewood for a small cost. Communication with him was also very pleasant and easy. We enjoyed our stay so much that we extended it by 1 more day 😊. Overall, we look forward to staying at Phoenix Landing again in the near future. NOTE: Needing a 4x4/ AWD vehicle is absolutely necessary to climb the property if choosing not to walk. We arrived in absolute pouring rain and thankfully our Land Cruiser had no issue. The climb / descent is definitely very fun, but if you have no experience with off-roading, it may be a bit difficult. Take it slow. Cheers! Thank you again Mike, and hope to stay again. 😸😸😸

J

Jerry

November 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Paradise Valley Homestead

It was a beautiful trip for some RTT camping with the pups. The site was clear and prepped and well cared for. Wood was plentiful and the scene so quiet and peacefull. Would definitely recommend 👌

C

Clinton

October 2025

18 ft Class B

1 night at Lincoln Kirstein

Great place! Beautiful spot. There are a couple of spots available, one next to the house and one further down the road on a small pull-off. We stayed by the house and it was great.

T

Tracie

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Paradise Valley Homestead

Kathleen was so welcoming and as our first Hipcamp booking, years ago, we were happy to be back ! She greeted us upon arrival and acknowledging our return visit, provided us with a homemade wooden “plaque” kit to leave our name, address, and personal message so it could be displayed on the site. We will absolutely be back!

M

Max

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Paradise Valley Homestead

Everything was perfect and Kathleen was extremely kind and helpful. I could write more but I’d be repeating the other 100 stellar reviews for the site

Site 9. Note the epic rock in the background!

p

patrick

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Paradise Valley Homestead

Overall it was a nice place. Very clean including the outhouses. Some decent little trails and a thoughtful owner who takes care of the property. Tip… Buy her wood, not the store bought crap. Trust me, it’s cheaper and drier also hardwood. Can’t go wrong.

Anna

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Forest Treasure Island

Incredible experience with kids. What Yana and husband created on their property is a must to experience if you have kids. Just book it and make sure to ask for whatever you need, because it's all ala carte. Humble, lower tier glamping, but makes up in atmosphere and amenities for kids and interaction with the animals. 10/10 would stay again.

K

Katelynn

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Paradise Valley Homestead

My group loved tent camping on Kathleen’s land! The area we could use was very big and extremely well maintained. The directions were clear and Kathleen was around and eager to answer any and all questions. There are other sites nearby as well. We loved this site and will be back!

C

Catherine

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Paradise Valley Homestead

Perfect place to camp with my friend and our young children. The composting toilet in the outhouse was stellar. Not at all smelly, and very clean. We neglected to bring drinking water, but Kathleen brought us 2 jugs +2 jugs of water for washing dishes. We were also able to buy firewood for $10 that supplied us with enough wood for a fire at night and one in the morning. We had a very positive experience and would come back.

Rosalyn

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Paradise Valley Homestead

I had a lovely time on Kathy's land. She's super attentive and ready to answer questions to tend to your needs. She's also very friendly and approachable. Every detail was taken into account including accessible water, tools for each campsite and firewood. The grounds were lovely, everything was spread out but easy to get to and I enjoyed hiking on the trails. Would definitely love to return!

Ted

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Paradise Valley Homestead

This was my second time here, and my daughter and I quickly decided it was, of all the places we've been, our favorite campsite. It has everything we want: sites actually in the woods, covered by trees (this can be hard to ensure, sometimes), trails right there on the land (including a pretty cool mini-waterfall and lagoon), lots of firewood onsite, decent privacy, and amenities like outhouses and campfire grills. Not to mention that Kathleen is just so friendly and wonderful and makes the whole experience easy. We're coming back next Spring, because why bother anywhere else?

Peter

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Destination Farnch

Beautiful spot, secluded and very well equipped. Only would recommend more signage and lighting at the driveway entrance, it was a bit difficult to find at night. Other than that fully recommend.

W

Wil

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Paradise Valley Homestead

Nestled deep in West Milford, this campground delivers a true back to nature experience starting with the long, rugged dirt road that sets the tone for adventure. Once you arrive, you’re surrounded by towering trees, hushed trails, and a tranquil sense of solitude. Despite its remote feel, it’s just a short drive from Bergen County and NYC, making it an ideal spot for a spontaneous weekend escape. Wild enough to feel off-grid, close enough to keep it easy.

P

Paulito ken

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Paradise Valley Homestead

Kathleen is a great host, clean outhouse, i like the area itself for proximity to hiking trails.

Site 6 is more secluded, still large, but only available for tents at this time

U

Ulysses

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Paradise Valley Homestead

Fantastic camp sight. There are many locations to choose from and as a first timer at this location i chose the more basic of choices and even then i was blown away. Kathleen has so many fun choices for places to stay that ypu will be wanting to come back. And Kathleen is a great host. Super nice person and super helpful. If you need a reason to commit to a location let me be the one to do so.