Best Campgrounds near NYC for Tent Camping with Kids

Mongaup Camp attracts plenty of families thanks to its lake-front location and friendly park rangers. Photo courtesy of the site

Going camping near NYC may seem challenging for city dwellers because it often requires plenty of equipment, including a car. But, your next camping adventure might be easier than you think. There are plenty of family-friendly campgrounds nearby that offer amenities to make camping near NYC fun and easier for kids and families.

If you don't have camping gear, there are even campgrounds that provide nearly everything you need to have an amazing camping experience. We've rounded up a handful of great family-friendly campgrounds near NYC, all with availability for booking this summer. If you're looking for something even more full-service, consider booking a night at Collective Governors Island or one of these other local glamping destinations.

We've got tons more picks for exploring the great outdoors with kids in our Outdoor Adventures Guide, plus all our picks to have the best summer ever in our Ultimate NYC Kids Summer Vacation Guide.

Best Campgrounds Near Philadelphia for Tent Camping, Cabins, KOAs and More

Set up shop on the beautiful grounds at Ocean View Resort. Photo courtesy of Ocean View Resort

With summer officially here, camping season is in full swing for Philadelphia families. Regardless of experience level -- first-timers or veterans, bare-bones campers, or real-deal glampers -- the suggestions below have you covered. 

Almost all of these campgrounds are 2.5 hours or less from Center City, with a range of amenities from "just the basics" to luxury campsites with pools, playgrounds, and WiFi. Everything from KOA campgrounds to RV campgrounds to campgrounds with cabins makes this list. Check out our Guide to Philly Family Day Trips Weekend Getaways for more quick vacay ideas, and don't forget to subscribe to our newsletters.

DC's National Independence Day Parade with Kids: Tips and Tricks

Plenty of patriotic pride is on display at the National Independence Day Parade. Photo courtesy of the parade

July 4th in Washington, DC is always a huge spectacle, and it starts with the famous National Independence Day Parade. DC's 4th of July parade is a fun and festive experience jam-packed with colorful floats and balloons, lively marching bands, and notable people waving to the crowd. Kids love to be in on all the patriotic fun, but it's good to plan ahead to ensure the experience is as memorable and stress-free as possible.

Read on for our tips and tricks on visiting the National Independence Day Parade with kids. Then continue your 4th of July festivities with our lists of the best spots to watch the DC fireworks on the National Mall and the best 4th of July crafts, recipes, and other activities for kids. Don't forget to wear your red, white, and blue!

Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland, Florida Is Free Outdoor Fun

Explore the incredible Florida Children's Museum at Bonnet Springs Park.

Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland, FL is a fantastic, FREE outdoor attraction that caters to both young and old! My family recently visited this hidden gem, dubbed "Central Florida's Central Park," and it provided the perfect setting for a fun family day trip from Orlando. With a range of activities and attractions, Bonnet Springs Park offers an immersive experience that combines natural beauty, educational opportunities, and endless fun for kids of all ages. Gather the family and make memories at this enchanting destination!

35 Things To Do in Newport Beach and Costa Mesa with Kids

Newport Beach is literally home to the fun zone. Photo courtesy of Visit Newport Beach

Newport Beach may be synonymous with surf, sun, and sand, but there's plenty more to do in this scenic community beyond lying on the (admittedly inviting) beach. From whale watching to skate parks and petting zoos, there are countless kid-friendly activities to engage a family in the heart of Newport Beach—plus a wide variety of enriching options in adjoining Costa Mesa as well.

And when SoCal's version of winter rolls around, some of the season's most memorable events take place in these two communities, including one of the oldest holiday traditions in the country. 

For more amusement in Orange County, discover fun things to do in Irvine with kids, and add these things to do with Orange County kids before they grow up to your ever-growing bucket list. If you're looking for more sandy beaches along the coast, check out our Beach Guide to Los Angeles and Orange County.  

Best Campgrounds near the Hudson Valley for Tent Camping, Cabins, KOAs, and More

Enjoy some campfire s'mores at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park. Photo courtesy of the campground

"Getting away from it all" and spending time camping in the woods sounds idyllic, but let's face it: Sometimes—especially when kids are involved—you just need something a little extra.

Whether it's a water slide, a museum, a side trip to a historic site, or even a cricket pitch, the campsites we list below offer that little something more to keep everyone entertained, get the kids off their phones for a bit, and fend off cries of "I'm bored!" All sites are within a reasonable distance, so they're far enough to get away from civilization but close enough for comfort.

For more summertime fun, check out our Ultimate Westchester and Hudson Valley Kids Summer Vacation Guide. And be sure to follow on Facebook and sign up for our sign up for our newsletters.

Best Campgrounds for Glamping and Cabin Camping on Long Island

Rent a renovated airstream for a glamping experience at Nickerson Beach. Photo by Adam Panetta

Glamping sites and campgrounds with cabins on Long Island offer wonderful opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. From the beaches that line our shores, to our rivers, wetlands, and forests, there is an abundance of nature to become one with on Long Island–and you don't need a sleeping bag or tent to do it.

Here is our list of the top glamping campgrounds on Long Island. Some locations have cabin rentals, while others offer RV and camper hookups. 

Check out our list of the 18 Best Places to Go Camping on Long Island with Kids for more great camping ideas. 

Best Campgrounds, Cabins, and RV Sites in the Poconos Mountains

Otter Lake Camp Resort 300 acres include multiple pools and a 60-acre lake.

The Poconos Mountains in Pennsylvania are home to a variety of beautiful campgrounds, cabins, and RV sites, so it’s no wonder the area is a popular vacation destination for New Jerseyans. Just an hour away for those near the border in Warren County and not too far from other areas of the state, getting to the Poconos is a doable drive with young kids in the backseat.

The 10 family-friendly sites listed below are fun options for camping in tents, RVs, or cabins. For nearby entertainment, we also have a guide to kid-friendly activities in the Poconos area. If you prefer to stay in NJ, then check out our list of the best family campgrounds in New Jersey and our guide to the state’s many playgrounds and parks.

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