Camping options near Bellmore, New York range from oceanfront locations to wooded inland sites, scattered across Nassau and Suffolk Counties. Long Island's typical summer highs reach 80-85°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder 60-75°F temperatures. Many campgrounds in the region operate seasonally with specific opening and closing dates, particularly for tent camping areas.
What to do
Swimming at lake beaches: Beaver Pond Campground offers access to Welch Lake with a lifeguard-monitored sandy beach. "The beach is secured with lifeguards and shower and bathroom facilities are available," notes one visitor. Swimming is typically permitted during summer months only.
Fishing opportunities: Blydenburgh County Park provides fishing access from shore or boat. "Row boat for fishing was great," comments one camper who visited in late July. The park's lake supports various fish species, though permits are required for anglers over 16.
Hiking local trails: Wooded paths range from easy walks to more challenging terrain. A visitor to Blydenburgh mentioned, "Hiking trails are beautiful. Dog friendly." At Harriman State Park, you can find "access to bear mountain pool, or the appalachian trails, and lean tos, (not on the camp sites)."
Beach exploration: Several campers mention the oceanfront advantages near Bellmore. "The campground is on the ocean with a huge private beach. It's about a ten minute walk to the beach through a concrete parking lot and basketball courts," notes a Watch Hill visitor. No swimming is permitted in certain beach areas.
What campers like
Privacy levels: The separation between campsites varies significantly across the region. At Battle Row Campground, "Each site is set back off a common area so there is plenty of privacy." This contrasts with more open layouts at other facilities.
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower quality is frequently mentioned in reviews. One Battle Row visitor noted, "The camp office workers are SO friendly and helpful. The sites have provided electric and water and are kept so clean. They have shower and restroom facilities, the showers were amazing and also so clean!"
Beach access: Proximity to water is a major draw at several locations. "Very reasonable rates to pitch a tent. You get a private space with a fire pit. Ocean is close with lifeguards," writes a Sandy Hook visitor. Water access options range from ocean beaches to lakefront settings.
Urban convenience: The ability to combine camping with city access appeals to many. A Liberty Harbor RV Park visitor mentioned, "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room."
What you should know
Mosquito preparedness: Insect protection is essential at certain campgrounds. A Watch Hill Fire Island Campground visitor warned, "It was nearly impossible to enjoy ourselves because we were getting attacked by mosquitoes and horseflies the entire weekend. Even with the bug spray, the relief didn't last long."
Site layouts and boundaries: The definition between campsites varies greatly. At Heckscher State Park, "The campsites are very close together without any defining borders so everybody just walks across each other site's to get to a different one, a path, the bathroom, etc."
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for local fauna. At Beaver Pond Campground, "The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping." Bears are mentioned in some inland park areas.
Shower facilities: Availability and quality of showers differs. One Battle Row visitor observed, "There were lots of showers but only 1 was unlocked (free and with hot water). The bathroom was very clean and well stocked." Some campgrounds have no shower facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds provide play areas for children. A Blydenburgh visitor mentioned the park "has a playground for the kids" along with "Full bathrooms and slop sinks throughout the campsite." Family-friendly amenities vary by location.
Educational opportunities: Collective Governors Island offers unique learning experiences in a glamping setting. "The article also mentions the benefits of camping on Governor Island, such as feeling close to nature, relaxing and enjoying a peaceful space, away from the noise of the city."
Site selection for privacy: When booking with children, consider site location carefully. At Heckscher, "If you're looking for privacy, the sites at the rear seemed to be less-densely packed, even though every site was occupied."
Wildlife viewing chances: Children often enjoy animal sightings. One Heckscher State Park visitor listed observable "wildlife: deer, rabbits, turtles" around the cottage area. The best viewing times are typically early morning or evening.
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: Large vehicles face route restrictions. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, a camper advised: "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze."
Site spacing: Proximity to neighboring units varies widely. At Nickerson Beach Park Campground, "Sites kind of level and very close. Power and water, and convenient dump station if staying and needing to dump." This close spacing is common at RV facilities near Bellmore.
Reservation timing: Book well in advance, especially for peak periods. One Nickerson Beach camper noted, "This is a small beach campground. It's all but impossible to get an RV spot there from Memorial day to Labor day. Still, it is a clean and well run campground."
Amenity limitations: Expect varying hookup options. A visitor to Battle Row mentioned, "This campground is old and there isn't much there, but it depends on why you're camping whether that matters to you." Many campgrounds offer only partial hookups.
