Croton Point Park
🏕️ Westchester’s Hudson River Peninsula Park – Updated 2025
508 Acres on the Hudson
Croton Point Park occupies a dramatic 508-acre peninsula jutting into the Hudson River in Croton-on-Hudson, Westchester County—just 40 miles north of New York City. It’s the largest park in the Westchester County system and one of the most historically significant outdoor spaces in the Hudson Valley.
From year-round camping with river views to America’s oldest wine cellars and world-class bald eagle watching, Croton Point Park is a nature refuge within commuting distance of Manhattan.
History & Wine Cellars
The park’s most fascinating feature may be underground. In the 1800s, the Underhill family established a vineyard on the peninsula and built wine cellars that are considered the oldest in New York State—and possibly in America.
- Underhill Vineyard: One of the earliest commercial vineyards in the region.
- Wine Cellars: Stone-lined underground chambers still visible in the park.
- Native American History: The Kitchawanc people used Croton Point as a seasonal camp for thousands of years.
Camping
Croton Point is one of the few places in the Lower Hudson Valley where you can camp year-round with river views.
Campsite Options
| Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Tent Sites | Wooded and open sites with fire rings and picnic tables. |
| RV Sites | Electric hookups available. No water/sewer hookups. |
| Cabins | Basic cabins for families (reservations required). |
Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for summer weekends and festival dates.
Events & Festivals
- Hudson River Eagle Fest: Winter bald eagle viewing festival (January/February). One of the Northeast’s premier birding events.
- Clearwater Festival: Historic environmental music festival on the Hudson.
- Rev Fest 250: September 2025 celebration of the American Revolution’s 250th anniversary.
Planning Your Visit
Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Croton-on-Hudson, NY (Westchester County) |
| Size | 508 acres |
| Entry Fee | $10 parking (weekends/holidays, May–September) |
| Camping | Year-round, reservations recommended |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the train?
Yes! The Croton-Harmon Metro-North station is approximately 2 miles from the park entrance, making it accessible from NYC without a car.
When is eagle season?
Bald eagles are most active along this stretch of the Hudson from December through March. The Eagle Fest is typically held in February.
How much does an Empire Pass cost?
The Empire Pass costs $80 per year and provides unlimited vehicle entry to all New York state parks, historic sites, and recreation areas. It is available at any state park entrance or online through the NY Parks website.
When is the best time for fall foliage in New York state parks?
Fall foliage in New York typically peaks from late September in the Adirondacks to mid-October in the Hudson Valley and Finger Lakes region. Letchworth and Bear Mountain State Parks are especially popular for leaf peeping.
Are gorge trails open year-round in New York?
Most gorge trails, including those at Watkins Glen, Robert H. Treman, and Buttermilk Falls, are closed from roughly November through May due to ice and safety concerns. Rim trails often remain open year-round.
Can I camp at New York state parks?
Yes, many New York state parks offer tent camping, RV sites, and cabins. Reservations can be made through ReserveAmerica up to 9 months in advance. Popular parks fill quickly for summer and fall weekends.
Explore More New York State Parks
Croton Point Park is one of many outstanding state parks in New York. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in New York guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Croton Point Park — a peninsula in the Hudson River at Croton-on-Hudson — was a Native American settlement for 12,000+ years (one of the longest-occupied sites in the Northeast) and later a major wine-producing region (19th century). The park’s marshes and meadows support bald eagles (a major winter roost site). Osprey nest on platforms. Monarch butterflies stage for migration.
Nearby Attractions
Croton-on-Hudson — adjacent — has the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail and Van Cortlandt Manor. Ossining — 3 miles south — has the Old Croton Dam. Sleepy Hollow — 5 miles south — has the cemetery and Kykuit. Cold Spring — 15 miles north.
