Camping and Birding near NYC
Experience Camping and Birding at Best Campgrounds near NYC
Looking for an unforgettable camping experience near New York City? Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a quick camping trip, birding can add a whole new dimension to your adventure. Discover the best campgrounds accessible by public transportation and the incredible bird species you can spot in these natural havens.
Why Combine Camping and Birding?
Camping offers a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, and birding can make your camping experience even more rewarding. From the peaceful sounds of birdsongs to the thrill of spotting a rare species, here’s why you should consider birding on your next camping trip.
Benefits of Birding While Camping
- Immersive Experience: Enjoy a deeper connection with nature as you camp and observe birds in their natural habitats.
- Educational: Learn about local bird species and their behaviors.
- Relaxing: Birding adds a peaceful and mindful activity to your camping routine.
- Family-Friendly: A great way to engage kids and introduce them to wildlife.
Remember to bring binoculars the next time you go camping near NYC! Photo: Pressmaster / Adobe
Bald Eagles, while increasingly becoming a common sight in NYC, are more often found at camping grounds nearby NYC. Photo: Jerry McFarland / Flickr CC
One of several lakes to be experienced at Harriman State Park in nearby Hudson Valley, NY. Photo: Surfergirl30 / Flickr CC
Remember to bring binoculars the next time you go camping near NYC! Photo: Pressmaster / Adobe
Bald Eagles, while increasingly becoming a common sight in NYC, are more often found at camping grounds nearby NYC. Photo: Jerry McFarland / Flickr CC
One of several lakes to be experienced at Harriman State Park in nearby Hudson Valley, NY. Photo: Surfergirl30 / Flickr CC
Top Camping Spots for Birding in NYC
- Harriman State Park:
- Location: Hudson Valley, New York
- How To Get There from NYC: Take the NJ Transit from Penn Station or the Shortline Bus from the Port Authority Bus Terminal to the park’s west side, very close to several trailheads.
- Birding Highlights: Look for warblers and sparrows, and spot other migratory species such as the ducks and herons at the park’s many lakes and reservoirs.
- Hither Hills State Park:
- Location: Montauk, South Fork of Long Island
- How to Get There from NYC: Hop on the LIRR from Penn Station to Montauk, then call a cab or hike the 5.5-mile distance to the campground.
- Birding Highlights: Offers a mix of sandy beach, woodlands, and unique walking dunes. Spot terns, oystercatchers, and other shorebirds by the beach. The area around Napeague Harbor is one of the few sites on eastern Long Island that is still occupied by Northern Harriers during the breeding season.
- Wildwood State Park:
- Location: Wading River, North Fork of Long Island
- How to Get There from NYC: Take the LIRR from Penn Station to Port Jefferson Station, then call a cab to travel the remaining 14 miles to the campgrounds.
- Birding Highlights: Known for its 600 acres of forest, wetlands, and beaches along the Long Island Sound. Look for birds of prey like Bald Eagles and Osprey, by the Sound. Search the forest for warblers, sparrows, and other migratory songbirds.
"}" data-trix-content-type="undefined" class="attachment attachment--content"> Birding Tips for Campers
- Bring the Essentials: Pack binoculars, a bird guidebook, and a notebook for sightings.
- Early Mornings and Evenings: Birds are most active during these times, so plan your birding sessions accordingly.
- Quiet Observation: Move slowly and quietly to avoid startling birds.
- Record Your Sightings: Use apps like eBird to log your observations and contribute to community science.
Join Our Community
Ready to add birding to your camping trip? Stay connected with NYC Bird Alliance for more tips, events, and updates.
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