Camping options near Bellerose Terrace, New York extend beyond the immediate vicinity, with several established campgrounds accessible within a 25-40 mile radius. This Long Island community sits at a low elevation of approximately 85 feet above sea level, creating relatively flat terrain for camping areas throughout the region. Weather conditions are typically humid during summer months with temperatures averaging 75-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions with occasional rainfall.
What to do
Hiking trails at Harriman State Park: Located about 40 miles northwest of Bellerose Terrace, Harriman State Park's Beaver Pond Campground offers extensive trail systems. "Hike trails are all over the place and the lake is nearby," notes camper Kelvin. For those seeking variety, the park provides "trails that are rated easy and accessible to disabled are equally enjoyable and beautiful."
Beach access at Nickerson Beach: The Atlantic Ocean is just steps away at Nickerson Beach Park Campground, about 15 miles southwest. According to Michael K., it's a "great spot to camp at if the waves are pumping at Lido Beach on Long Island." The campground provides "easy beach access" and is particularly appealing to surfers as it's "steps away from some of the greatest waves on the east coast."
Urban exploring from Liberty Harbor: For campers wanting to access New York City, Liberty Harbor RV Park in Jersey City provides convenient transportation options. "There is a ferry 100-yards away that takes you to Wall Street M-F," reports Shawn B., while another camper notes "the light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8" minutes walking distance.
What campers like
Lakefront activities at Blydenburgh Park: Blydenburgh County Park in Smithtown offers a natural lake setting approximately 20 miles east. "Great park with a nice 7 mile loop around the lake with decent fishing," states Erik R. Another camper appreciates that "row boat for fishing was great" and the park offers "awesome" hiking trails.
Affordable rates at some parks: Several campgrounds offer reasonable pricing compared to hotel accommodations. At Harriman State Park's Beaver Pond Campground, one camper highlighted "camping for just $15" while noting it's "an off-grid camping experience." Another mentions that Battle Row Campground is "fairly acceptable with the prices!"
Clean facilities: Many campers note well-maintained amenities at regional campgrounds. At Battle Row Campground in Old Bethpage, visitors found that "the bathrooms were clean and well stocked" and "the bathroom was very clean." One camper specifically mentioned that "the showers were amazing and also so clean!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary seasonally: Most campgrounds require advance planning, especially on weekends. At Cheesequake State Park in New Jersey, about 30 miles southwest, campsites fill quickly during peak times. A camper at Beaver Pond noted the "Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great."
Wildlife considerations: Several campgrounds report wildlife encounters. At Harriman State Park, campers are advised about bears. "Welcome to Bear Mountain" grumbles the park ranger," one visitor reported, noting they received "the run down on bear activity in the area." Another camper mentioned "the wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping."
Noise levels can fluctuate: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby roadways or other campers. At Cheesequake State Park, campers report "the parkway runs through/over the park, you will be able to hear traffic noises." Another camper used "a fan in the trailer to block out the sound of traffic with the exception of some sports cars/motorcycles speeding loudly."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. Battle Row Campground provides "a playground for the kids" centrally located in the campground. Beaver Pond Campground at Harriman State Park is described as a "great place for kids" with "a playground" among its amenities.
Swimming options: Families seeking water recreation have several choices. Harriman State Park's Beaver Pond Campground features "a beach" and "clean pond" that's "lifeguard monitored" during summer months. One visitor noted it's "open during the summer season for swimming, fishing, and small boat craft further out."
Privacy considerations: Some campgrounds offer more separation between sites than others. At Sandy Hook Gateway National Recreation Area, "you get a private space with a fire pit." At Battle Row, sites are "set back off a common area so there is plenty of privacy" making it ideal for families wanting their own space.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV campers frequently mention site dimensions. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, "larger rigs will barely have a yard" and "if it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig." One camper advises to "pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room."
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer partial hookups. Nickerson Beach Park Campground provides "sites with provided electric and water" but lacks sewer connections at individual sites. One visitor noted the dump station at Liberty Harbor "was not the easiest to use."
Urban RV navigation challenges: RVers should plan routes carefully when traveling near NYC. Liberty Harbor RV Park suggests "stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze." Navigating through the region requires awareness of height restrictions and traffic patterns, with some parks offering easier access than others.
