Cabin camping options near Gateway National Recreation Area range from primitive forest structures to more comfortable facilities. Most cabins in the area can be found within a 45-minute drive from the recreation area. Several state parks and private campgrounds offer rentals during spring through fall seasons, though availability varies considerably during peak summer months.
What to do
Fishing from your campsite: At Turkey Swamp Park, cabins are situated near a fishing pond with various boat rental options. "Fishing, Tent Camp, Van Camping, Open Field, BBQ, Kayaking, Canoeing. The list goes on. I've been here a few times, every time I'm here I barely touch my phone," reports a visitor.
Urban exploring: The now-closed Staten Island Gateway offered a unique urban camping experience. "This campground is amazing. You have a clear view of the Narrow bridge and at night the city lights light up your surroundings like a night light... There are abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring," noted one camper.
Winter activities: Several parks near Gateway offer seasonal winter recreation. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, visitors can experience winter sports. "We go every year. It has everything the outdoorsman could ask for. Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels. Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," shared one regular visitor.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the site layout at Butterfly Camping Resort, where cabins and sites offer more seclusion. "The sites had good tree coverage and we didn't feel like we were right on top of the next site. There was tons of stuff to do. There's a pond to fish, trails to walk/bike, basketball, sand volleyball, the list goes on and on."
Family-friendly activities: Campgrounds in the region typically provide structured recreation options. "Both nights we were there, there were events being put on (a tractor ride, kickball, and a pool movie night). There was also a dog park which was very nice!" noted one Butterfly Camping Resort visitor.
Spacious cabin interiors: Cabins at some locations offer surprisingly roomy accommodations. "Sites came with fire pit, large picnic bench, and lamp stand. Plenty of parking space. Good tree coverage," according to one camper at Turkey Swamp Park, which offers both tent sites and cabins.
What you should know
Seasonal pest concerns: Ticks can be a significant issue at some parks. At Turkey Swamp Park, one visitor warned: "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2. That was so crazy because we were just sitting by our camper."
Water access challenges: Many cabin sites require planning for water access. "Water is more than 40 feet away from your parking so 25' hose is not enough," noted a Turkey Swamp camper. Bring extra-long hoses or water containers for cabins with distant water hookups.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds near Gateway experience noise from nearby highways or attractions. At Croton Point Park, "The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm. Great site for a party, try to stay away from this end of the site or choose a site away from other bookings if you'd like quiet."
Tips for camping with families
Pack insect protection: The wooded settings demand proper preparation. "We were worried about bugs, but we didn't even use mosquito repellent and didn't get a single bite! The campground was super clean too. It was perfect!" shared a summer visitor at Turkey Swamp Park.
Choose sites near playgrounds: Many campgrounds offer recreation areas within view of cabin areas. At Croton Point Park, visitors noted "playground within sight of our camper," making it easier to supervise children while enjoying the campsite.
Plan for bathroom logistics: Not all cabin locations have convenient restroom access. "Only one or two bathrooms in the whole place so be prepared to go for a walk when you have to go," warned a Croton Point Park visitor, which can be challenging with young children.
Tips from RVers
Extended water hoses needed: At Timberland Lake Campground, water connections require preparation. "Water is more than 40 feet away from your parking so 25' hose is not enough," noted a camper staying in the campground's cabin section.
Level site access: Most cabin areas offer reasonably flat terrain. "Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy. A lantern hook, picnic table, and fire ring complete each site," according to a Turkey Swamp Park visitor who noted the campground accommodates both cabin users and RVers.
Weather preparation: Rainfall can create challenges at some sites. "All roads and camper pads are dirt... it would be hard to get in/out of if it had rained a lot as it was all on soft grass," reported a visitor to Timberland Lake Campground.
