The best camping near Staten Island with wildlife watching

·

As a city with “island” in its name, Staten Island may not be the island campers expect—but that doesn’t mean you should lower your expectations. Sure, the city is technically part of New York City, but Staten Island provides access to some of the best parks, beaches, and campsites in two states. Opt for a campsite in New Jersey, where both verdant parks and sandy beaches live up to the Garden State alias. Or, head to the Rockaways, where beach camping always comes with a view. Even in Staten Island, however, urban streets are never far from parks, forests, beaches, and nature centers.

94% (1.2K) 32 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Staten Island

Wildflower Hill

1. Wildflower Hill

100%
(14)
18mi from Staten Island · 1 site
Nestled on the ridgeline of the 3rd Watchung Mountain, the property sits above The Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. You'll be in a neighborhood, for sure, but a quiet one with lots of room for people and pets to stretch. The property has a 3000 square foot Summer wildflower field with a cozy tent spot in the center. There is also a grand flat grass area for setting up multiple tents. A 100-foot dog trolley run spans the land so your fluffy can run and stay close, too. Numerous outdoor chairs and tables are set up in various spots to best enjoy the land. There is a fire pit and free firewood available. Use of up to two 8-foot single kayaks or a single 17-foot canoe is available. The Passaic River has a number of drop-in spots nearby and Round Valley and Spruce Run reservoirs are a short drive. Hiking trails go throughout the Great Swamp. They have a terrific education center and the famous Raptor Trust.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$50
 / night
Historical Lake Front Barn

2. Historical Lake Front Barn

91%
(22)
28mi from Staten Island · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$119
 / night
Paradise Valley Homestead

3. Paradise Valley Homestead

99%
(1709)
38mi from Staten Island · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$41
 / night
Gateway National Recreation Area

4. Gateway National Recreation Area

67%
(3)
National park 12mi from Staten Island · 59 sites
Gateway National Recreation Area: A Tapestry of Nature and History.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Round Valley Recreation Area

5. Round Valley Recreation Area

96%
(12)
State park 37mi from Staten Island · 85 sites
Discover Round Valley Recreation Area's natural splendor.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
Historic Sundial Farm

6. Historic Sundial Farm

99%
(92)
47mi from Staten Island · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Sundial Farm Pitch your tent and pick our apples by the pond on Westchester’s oldest working farm. You’ll enjoy complete privacy and quiet. The Hawkey family has worked Sundial Farm for nearly half a century, from indoor plants to perennials to dressage school, to organic veggies, selling antiques, hosting a local CSA and farm stand, and most recently native plant landscaping with PlanIt Wild. Sundial Farm can also be seen in many Hollywood productions, such as Blackkklansmen, The Hunters, and American Gangster. *You may come across reviews talking about the farm stand and animals. Sadly those are no longer here, so stock up on goodies before you arrive.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$90
 / night
Apothecary Gardens NY

7. Apothecary Gardens NY

100%
(21)
50mi from Staten Island · 2 sites
Learn more about this land: Camp out in our beautiful 18' tipi handcrafted by a small group of artisans in OR. The tipi is fully equipped with a full-sized futon/bed, couch, chair, mat and a fire pit. See all that Warwick has to offer including hiking trails, lakes, wineries, breweries, cideries and orchards as well as a charming town with lots of shops and restaurants. Come and visit our seasonal healing garden space featuring various vegetable and flower gardens. With heavy rains parts of the tipi may get wet. That being said we have had several guests enjoy their stay despite the rain. We are more flexible with cancellation dependent on weather.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$100
 / night
60's Surf Camper

8. 60's Surf Camper

83%
(50)
17mi from Staten Island · 3 sites
Located in the heart of Rockaway Beach NYC, this vintage 1963 Shasta camper is perfect for a small getaway with a few pals to enjoy the sun and the surf! Take a trip back in time! The camper can sleep up to 4, where the second bed is created from the seating area. There is a beautiful city view over the bay that can be seen from the seating area. All linens are provided. A fridge to keep your drinks ice cold, a BBQ, 2 beach chairs with umbrella, a cooler, and a coffee maker with coffee, are all yours to enjoy and are included free in the rental! We also have two surfboards available to rent for an extra fee. Guests have access to a private toilet, and an outdoor shower for rinsing off after a long day on the beach or shredding the surf. Fishing, and the most amazing city view sunsets are just a 1 minute walk up the block to the bay park. Quality Wifi is included.The Atlantic ocean, the beach, concession stands, and our wonderful new boardwalk are just a few short blocks away, a 4 minute walk. Great neighborhood restaurants and bars are within walking distance. Rent a surf board and hit of the surf beaches or just head to the beach to relax. Perfect for couples or a small family getaway, come and enjoy this vintage camper, and all that this beach town has to offer!
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
$117
 / night
Howell Fireside Chills

9. Howell Fireside Chills

100%
(4)
33mi from Staten Island · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Howell Fireside Chills offers guest to relax and unwind at the fire-pit. With plenty of space to walk around in the woods that has a trimmed path, you can feel one with nature and the wildlife that graze and live in the 40+ acre fields behind my 10 acre. On clear nights you got a beautiful sight of the skies above with the stunning stars that shine and if your lucky to see a shooting star in the August and December months.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$50
 / night
Stephens State Park

10. Stephens State Park

88%
(4)
State park 40mi from Staten Island · 39 sites
Discover Stephens State Park: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Spruce Run Recreation Area

11. Spruce Run Recreation Area

75%
(3)
State park 42mi from Staten Island · 67 sites
Discover Spruce Run: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts and Campers Alike.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Voorhees State Park

12. Voorhees State Park

100%
(4)
State park 42mi from Staten Island · 49 sites
Discover Voorhees State Park's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Washington Crossing State Park

13. Washington Crossing State Park

State park 42mi from Staten Island · 4 sites
Discover the historic beauty of Washington Crossing State Park.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
'54 Stream

14. '54 Stream

100%
(2)
40mi from Staten Island · 1 site
40 minutes north of Manhattan on the southern edge of Harriman State Park this unique fully restored, historic 1954 Airstream Cruiser comes equipped with all the functionality of the modern world. Perched beside a stream and under a purposely built pavilion the Airstream dream comes alive with its own private patio, fire pit, and barn. With exclusive use of our inground heated pool from June to September guests of the Airstream can relax and swim after a hike in the woods.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$248
 / night
Bare Camping

15. Bare Camping

79%
(68)
44mi from Staten Island · 6 sites
Property was bought just as another project. However, after realizing the beautiful surroundings it only made sense to share it with others.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$53
 / night
Jugtown Mountain Campsites

16. Jugtown Mountain Campsites

46mi from Staten Island · 21 sites
Jugtown Mountain Campsites stands out as a year-round destination in Asbury, New Jersey, nestled within the picturesque Historic Hunterdon County. Spanning 100 acres of lush, grassy terrain, this campground offers an ideal setting for nature enthusiasts to explore scenic hiking trails right on the property. Guests can take advantage of a variety of amenities, including a brand new seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a playground for children, a gift shop and grocery store for convenience, and modern restroom facilities. The campground features 75 pull-through RV sites, each boasting well-maintained lawns, picnic tables, fire pits, and essential electric and water hookups, ensuring a comfortable stay. In addition to its serene environment, Jugtown Mountain Campsites is conveniently located near a range of exciting attractions. Visitors can explore the nearby Sands Casino, delve into history at the Clinton Historical Museum, or enjoy outdoor activities at local reservoirs and golf courses. With so much to offer, Jugtown Mountain is the perfect getaway for families and nature lovers alike. We look forward to welcoming you soon!
Kittatinny Valley State Park

17. Kittatinny Valley State Park

100%
(4)
State park 43mi from Staten Island · 3 sites
Discover Kittatinny Valley State Park's natural splendor and activities.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Wawayanda State Park

18. Wawayanda State Park

100%
(3)
State park 44mi from Staten Island · 3 sites
Discover Wawayanda State Park's lush landscapes and outdoor fun.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Harriman State Park

19. Harriman State Park

77%
(15)
State park 46mi from Staten Island · 137 sites
This popular New York park offers year-round adventure.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Swartswood State Park

20. Swartswood State Park

100%
(2)
State park 49mi from Staten Island · 73 sites
Discover Swartswood State Park's serene lakes and lush trails.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers

As a city with “island” in its name, Staten Island may not be the island campers expect—but that doesn’t mean you should lower your expectations. Sure, the city is technically part of New York City, but Staten Island provides access to some of the best parks, beaches, and campsites in two states. Opt for a campsite in New Jersey, where both verdant parks and sandy beaches live up to the Garden State alias. Or, head to the Rockaways, where beach camping always comes with a view. Even in Staten Island, however, urban streets are never far from parks, forests, beaches, and nature centers.

94% (1.2K) 32 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Staten Island

Wildflower Hill

1. Wildflower Hill

100%
(14)
18mi from Staten Island · 1 site
Nestled on the ridgeline of the 3rd Watchung Mountain, the property sits above The Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. You'll be in a neighborhood, for sure, but a quiet one with lots of room for people and pets to stretch. The property has a 3000 square foot Summer wildflower field with a cozy tent spot in the center. There is also a grand flat grass area for setting up multiple tents. A 100-foot dog trolley run spans the land so your fluffy can run and stay close, too. Numerous outdoor chairs and tables are set up in various spots to best enjoy the land. There is a fire pit and free firewood available. Use of up to two 8-foot single kayaks or a single 17-foot canoe is available. The Passaic River has a number of drop-in spots nearby and Round Valley and Spruce Run reservoirs are a short drive. Hiking trails go throughout the Great Swamp. They have a terrific education center and the famous Raptor Trust.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$50
 / night
Historical Lake Front Barn

2. Historical Lake Front Barn

91%
(22)
28mi from Staten Island · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$119
 / night
Paradise Valley Homestead

3. Paradise Valley Homestead

99%
(1709)
38mi from Staten Island · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$41
 / night
Gateway National Recreation Area

4. Gateway National Recreation Area

67%
(3)
National park 12mi from Staten Island · 59 sites
Gateway National Recreation Area: A Tapestry of Nature and History.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Round Valley Recreation Area

5. Round Valley Recreation Area

96%
(12)
State park 37mi from Staten Island · 85 sites
Discover Round Valley Recreation Area's natural splendor.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
Historic Sundial Farm

6. Historic Sundial Farm

99%
(92)
47mi from Staten Island · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Sundial Farm Pitch your tent and pick our apples by the pond on Westchester’s oldest working farm. You’ll enjoy complete privacy and quiet. The Hawkey family has worked Sundial Farm for nearly half a century, from indoor plants to perennials to dressage school, to organic veggies, selling antiques, hosting a local CSA and farm stand, and most recently native plant landscaping with PlanIt Wild. Sundial Farm can also be seen in many Hollywood productions, such as Blackkklansmen, The Hunters, and American Gangster. *You may come across reviews talking about the farm stand and animals. Sadly those are no longer here, so stock up on goodies before you arrive.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$90
 / night
Apothecary Gardens NY

7. Apothecary Gardens NY

100%
(21)
50mi from Staten Island · 2 sites
Learn more about this land: Camp out in our beautiful 18' tipi handcrafted by a small group of artisans in OR. The tipi is fully equipped with a full-sized futon/bed, couch, chair, mat and a fire pit. See all that Warwick has to offer including hiking trails, lakes, wineries, breweries, cideries and orchards as well as a charming town with lots of shops and restaurants. Come and visit our seasonal healing garden space featuring various vegetable and flower gardens. With heavy rains parts of the tipi may get wet. That being said we have had several guests enjoy their stay despite the rain. We are more flexible with cancellation dependent on weather.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$100
 / night
60's Surf Camper

8. 60's Surf Camper

83%
(50)
17mi from Staten Island · 3 sites
Located in the heart of Rockaway Beach NYC, this vintage 1963 Shasta camper is perfect for a small getaway with a few pals to enjoy the sun and the surf! Take a trip back in time! The camper can sleep up to 4, where the second bed is created from the seating area. There is a beautiful city view over the bay that can be seen from the seating area. All linens are provided. A fridge to keep your drinks ice cold, a BBQ, 2 beach chairs with umbrella, a cooler, and a coffee maker with coffee, are all yours to enjoy and are included free in the rental! We also have two surfboards available to rent for an extra fee. Guests have access to a private toilet, and an outdoor shower for rinsing off after a long day on the beach or shredding the surf. Fishing, and the most amazing city view sunsets are just a 1 minute walk up the block to the bay park. Quality Wifi is included.The Atlantic ocean, the beach, concession stands, and our wonderful new boardwalk are just a few short blocks away, a 4 minute walk. Great neighborhood restaurants and bars are within walking distance. Rent a surf board and hit of the surf beaches or just head to the beach to relax. Perfect for couples or a small family getaway, come and enjoy this vintage camper, and all that this beach town has to offer!
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
$117
 / night
Howell Fireside Chills

9. Howell Fireside Chills

100%
(4)
33mi from Staten Island · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Howell Fireside Chills offers guest to relax and unwind at the fire-pit. With plenty of space to walk around in the woods that has a trimmed path, you can feel one with nature and the wildlife that graze and live in the 40+ acre fields behind my 10 acre. On clear nights you got a beautiful sight of the skies above with the stunning stars that shine and if your lucky to see a shooting star in the August and December months.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$50
 / night
Stephens State Park

10. Stephens State Park

88%
(4)
State park 40mi from Staten Island · 39 sites
Discover Stephens State Park: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Spruce Run Recreation Area

11. Spruce Run Recreation Area

75%
(3)
State park 42mi from Staten Island · 67 sites
Discover Spruce Run: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts and Campers Alike.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Voorhees State Park

12. Voorhees State Park

100%
(4)
State park 42mi from Staten Island · 49 sites
Discover Voorhees State Park's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Washington Crossing State Park

13. Washington Crossing State Park

State park 42mi from Staten Island · 4 sites
Discover the historic beauty of Washington Crossing State Park.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
'54 Stream

14. '54 Stream

100%
(2)
40mi from Staten Island · 1 site
40 minutes north of Manhattan on the southern edge of Harriman State Park this unique fully restored, historic 1954 Airstream Cruiser comes equipped with all the functionality of the modern world. Perched beside a stream and under a purposely built pavilion the Airstream dream comes alive with its own private patio, fire pit, and barn. With exclusive use of our inground heated pool from June to September guests of the Airstream can relax and swim after a hike in the woods.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$248
 / night
Bare Camping

15. Bare Camping

79%
(68)
44mi from Staten Island · 6 sites
Property was bought just as another project. However, after realizing the beautiful surroundings it only made sense to share it with others.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$53
 / night
Jugtown Mountain Campsites

16. Jugtown Mountain Campsites

46mi from Staten Island · 21 sites
Jugtown Mountain Campsites stands out as a year-round destination in Asbury, New Jersey, nestled within the picturesque Historic Hunterdon County. Spanning 100 acres of lush, grassy terrain, this campground offers an ideal setting for nature enthusiasts to explore scenic hiking trails right on the property. Guests can take advantage of a variety of amenities, including a brand new seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a playground for children, a gift shop and grocery store for convenience, and modern restroom facilities. The campground features 75 pull-through RV sites, each boasting well-maintained lawns, picnic tables, fire pits, and essential electric and water hookups, ensuring a comfortable stay. In addition to its serene environment, Jugtown Mountain Campsites is conveniently located near a range of exciting attractions. Visitors can explore the nearby Sands Casino, delve into history at the Clinton Historical Museum, or enjoy outdoor activities at local reservoirs and golf courses. With so much to offer, Jugtown Mountain is the perfect getaway for families and nature lovers alike. We look forward to welcoming you soon!
Kittatinny Valley State Park

17. Kittatinny Valley State Park

100%
(4)
State park 43mi from Staten Island · 3 sites
Discover Kittatinny Valley State Park's natural splendor and activities.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Wawayanda State Park

18. Wawayanda State Park

100%
(3)
State park 44mi from Staten Island · 3 sites
Discover Wawayanda State Park's lush landscapes and outdoor fun.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Harriman State Park

19. Harriman State Park

77%
(15)
State park 46mi from Staten Island · 137 sites
This popular New York park offers year-round adventure.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Swartswood State Park

20. Swartswood State Park

100%
(2)
State park 49mi from Staten Island · 73 sites
Discover Swartswood State Park's serene lakes and lush trails.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Staten Island with wildlife watching guide

Where to go

The Edge of Staten Island

Start your camping trip right on the end of the borough. Part of The Gateway National Recreation Area, Great Kills Park is where hiking trails meet beaches and a salt marsh, so campers can meet the campsite of their dreams. See: your Staten Island camping trip will keep you on your toes, whether they’re barefoot or in hiking boots.

Along the NJ Coast

Continue your camping adventure with a trip to New Jersey. Not far from Staten Island, Sandy Hook offers some of the best beach camping in the tri-state area. Pitch a tent that fits the whole family, wander along the shore, swim in the waves, or simply stare out at the NYC skyline. From your campground with a view, bad days cease to exist.

Inland, Toward Wildlife

Once you’ve had your fill of water, head inland. New Jersey’s Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is a great starting point for all the flora and fauna of your camping dreams. Opt for an idyllic campsite near New Vernon’s wilderness trails and keep your eyes peeled for soaring hawks and even bald eagles. The range of wildlife offers a nice change of pace from NYC’s trademark pigeons.

When to go

Gauge your camping timeline by the weather. Summer is best for beach visits and tent camping, when the waves beckon to boogie-boarders and sunbathers alike. However, fall and spring can be just as fun options, so long as you plan accordingly—and perhaps book a campsite with electricity and a roof. The Gateway Recreation Area remains open year-round, so no matter when you visit, you’re certain to glimpse nature in its element.