Long Island's camping options include several state parks, county-run facilities, and private campgrounds within driving distance of Centerport. The region's Atlantic coastal climate creates moderate temperatures, with summer highs in the 80s and winter lows rarely below 25°F. Sites range from basic tent-only areas to full-service RV parks with water and electric hookups at various price points.
What to do
Beach activities at Heckscher State Park: The park offers swimming at a clean, sandy beach area with lifeguards during summer months. "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful. Great hikes," notes one camper at Heckscher State Park Campground.
Hiking and water sports: Paddle on Canopus Lake in Clarence Fahnestock State Park, where fishing opportunities abound. "They even have boat rentals - or you can bring your own boat to launch! If you are into fishing, there is another lake and two ponds that our neighbor campers said were great for catching panfish - one fisherman said he had caught several bass weighing over 3 pounds!!" according to a visitor at Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground.
New York City exploration: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides direct city access. "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8. Having a view of Lady Liberty out your window is priceless," notes one camper. Another adds, "We spent 3 nights here last week. Very convenient location. My wife visited Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Campers appreciate the ocean proximity at Nickerson Beach. "Right on the beach! Great spot to camp at if the waves are pumping at Lido Beach on Long Island," writes a visitor at Nickerson Beach Park Campground. The site allows quick access to surfing spots popular with local enthusiasts.
Privacy options: Many sites at Beaver Pond Campground offer secluded spots. "The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. You definitely feel like you have your own space and are not camping on top of your neighbor. Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained," shares one visitor at Beaver Pond Campground.
Value pricing: Some Long Island campgrounds offer affordable rates. "Camping for just $15. This is an off-grid camping experience. You can use your generator at certain hours. They have a beach. Their staff is friendly," notes a Beaver Pond visitor. Cathedral Pines County Park sites start around $14 per night for county residents with Green Key memberships.
What you should know
Wildlife awareness: Bears inhabit several camping areas in the region. "Welcome to Bear Mountain grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He is in his ranger hut, checking in the late evening arrivals to the campground... He offers us a highlighted map to our site, wishes us a good stay, and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area," reports a visitor at Beaver Pond.
Site selection importance: Campsite quality varies considerably within the same campground. "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site. This place can book up during camping season in the Northeast so make sure to book early in advance," advises a visitor at Clarence Fahnestock State Park.
Location changes: Before booking, verify current addresses. A visitor to Skyline RV Camp warns: "Be advised that Skyline RV Camp has moved to: 50 Noble St, Brooklyn, NY 11222. The original property location at 2 Oak St was sold and is now private property. There no longer is a waterfront view of the NYC skyline when camping at Skyline RV. The website views are misleading."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "The campground has a playground just for the campground. Bring a bicycle or scooper and you can ride the loop around to the beach; you can also drive to the beach," notes a visitor at Heckscher State Park.
Entertainment options: Some parks organize special events. "On one visit there was a magician performing for the camp goers. I've even been there while there was a philharmonic concert near the campground," reports a Heckscher State Park camper.
Off-season benefits: Consider camping after Labor Day for fewer crowds. "Weekends - this park is FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!" advises a Fahnestock State Park visitor. Another camper notes: "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite."
Tips from RVers
Parkway restrictions: Plan routes carefully to avoid parkway height restrictions. A visitor to Nickerson Beach shares: "I drove down from Connecticut to Long Island to find the main routes to the campsite all went through New York's parkways. There are height restrictions on the parkways so RVs cannot travel on them without a high risk of crashing into the bridges. Google Maps doesn't have an option for large vehicles so I made my way manually and the trip took an extra hour or more."
Site leveling challenges: Some rv campgrounds near Centerport, New York have uneven sites. "Most of the longer sites were very difficult to level," notes one camper about a Suffolk County campground. Battle Row Campground sites may require additional leveling blocks.
Utility limitations: Check hookup specifics before booking. "This is a pricey park, but options are limited. Power and water, and convenient dump station if staying and needing to dump," explains a visitor at Liberty Harbor RV Park. Another notes: "It is basically a parking lot with water & electric hookups."
