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Sleeping overnight in Central Park usually ends with a conversation you don't want to have with the NYPD. This summer, though, it's not only allowed—it's encouraged.
NYC Parks is once again rolling out its wildly popular Family Camping program, giving New Yorkers the chance to spend a night under the stars in some of the city's most iconic green spaces, including Central Park, Orchard Beach, Inwood Hill Park and even Rockaway Beach. The free overnight campouts, hosted by the Urban Park Rangers, run from August 2 through September 18, with events scheduled across all five boroughs.
Better yet, you don't have to lug a tent across the subway system. NYC Parks provides the tents and Rangers even lead the evening with campfire storytelling, nighttime nature walks and, of course, s'mores. You'll just need to bring your own sleeping bag, pillow or other bedding, along with essentials like bug spray, comfortable closed-toe shoes, a reusable water bottle and a few extra snacks if you think you'll get the midnight munchies.
Before you start picturing yourself roasting marshmallows beneath the Manhattan skyline, there's one catch: you can't simply sign up. Every campout is assigned through a free online lottery because demand far exceeds the number of available spots.
Each event has its own four-day registration window through the NYC Parks Xplor Recreation system, so you'll need to apply separately for the location you want. If your name is drawn, you'll receive an email confirming your family's reservation.
This year's lineup includes an overnight at Orchard Beach in the Bronx on August 2, followed by a visit to Marine Park's Salt Marsh Nature Center in Brooklyn on August 8. Manhattan campers can pitch a tent in Central Park on August 14 before another overnight in Inwood Hill Park later in the season. Queens offers campouts at Alley Pond Park on August 15 and the Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk on September 18, while Staten Island's Blue Heron Park hosts campers on August 16 and September 18.
The earliest lotteries are already underway, with registration opening today for events at Salt Marsh Nature Center and Alley Pond Park. Central Park hopefuls can enter beginning August 3, while later campouts open on a rolling schedule throughout the summer.
Whether you've been meaning to introduce your kids to camping (or just want bragging rights for spending the night in Central Park without getting kicked out), this is one of the city's most memorable free summer experiences. Just don't forget your sleeping bag.