Cabin camping near Fort Salonga, New York offers access to the Long Island Sound coastline with its characteristic rocky north shore beaches and wooded inland terrain. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with higher humidity levels from June through August. Campgrounds in this region often implement seasonal restrictions for cabin access, with most facilities closing from November through March.
What to do
Beach activities at Wildwood State Park: Located on the Long Island Sound, this park offers opportunities to enjoy the distinctive rocky shoreline that characterizes the north shore. "The North Shore and South Shore are pretty different. This site gives you the North Shore experience with high bluffs, sandy calm beaches along the Long Island Sound, and views of CT across the water," notes Amber A. at Wildwood State Park Campground.
Fruit picking near campgrounds: Several orchards surrounding the cabin camping areas allow visitors to harvest seasonal produce. Giselle P. mentions, "There are lots of stores nearby as well as orchards to pick your own fruits. I stayed there one weekend and went to Splish Splash waterpark that's not far away."
Stargazing permits required: For after-dark beach access, proper documentation is necessary. As one camper explains, "You have to buy a stargazing permit to be out on the beach after sunset, which is kind of strange but really helps prevent hooligans from taking over the beach and destroying the serenity."
What campers like
Ferry-accessible island cabins: For a more secluded cabin experience, Watch Hill Fire Island Campground offers isolation with basic amenities. "Beautiful location steps away from the beach. Listen to the waves crashing as you sleep and stargaze over the clear ocean. Not ready for full on camp-life? No problem! There are shops, a restaurant and a bar a 10 minute walk away," reports Inocencia O. at Watch Hill Fire Island Campground.
Beach proximity from Hammonasset: The Connecticut state park offers convenient beach access from cabin sites. A reviewer notes, "Beautiful Connecticut beach sits just steps away from your campsite. Well kept showers and bathrooms are abundant and the camp store has the majority of what you need. You can ride your bike from your site to the playground, store, beach, local ice cream shop, coffee shop."
Wooded platforms at Harriman: For a different cabin style, the raised platforms provide protection from ground moisture. "This was beautiful campground with an even nicer lake. You are able to do a hike around the lake. They have both cabins for rent and camping spots on platforms which are great, especially when it rains," says Ethan K. about The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
What you should know
Varying shower conditions: Bathroom facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. At Hammonasset, campers report "nice facilities like a shop, good showers, a playground, and volleyball courts." Meanwhile, at Watch Hill, "showers are not covered no curtains."
Insect preparation crucial: Certain campgrounds require substantial insect protection, particularly Watch Hill. One camper warns, "We couldn't even enjoy our meals at camp because it was that bad. Def bring a shelter or a canopy with a mosquito net!"
Rental policies at Riverdale Farm Campsites: This campground maintains specific booking restrictions that may affect longer stays. "We decided to walk to the office and ask to extend our stay for just one more week and they very rudely stopped our sentence and said they only allow a 7 day booking," reports one camper, indicating potential difficulties with extended cabin rentals.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Multiple campgrounds offer child-friendly recreation areas with varying proximacy to cabin sites. At Heckscher State Park, one reviewer mentions, "There is a playground just for the campground," while another notes a limitation: "playground is driving distance not walking."
Scheduled activities for children: Some campgrounds provide organized events for younger visitors. At Croton Point Park, a visitor shared, "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many cabins provide opportunities for animal observation. "Wildlife: deer, rabbits, turtles" are mentioned at Heckscher, while at Harriman, the lake is "home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio."
Tips from RVers
Uneven site distribution: At Wildwood State Park, there are distinct camping areas with different characteristics. "There was a separate area for RVs vs tents," notes one camper, which affects site selection for those bringing trailers or larger vehicles with cabin rentals.
Kitchen packing considerations: Even in cabins with kitchens, specific items may be needed. While Heckscher cottages include "coffee maker, plates, wine opener, can opener, silverware, pots, pans, cooking utensils, toaster, oven," other locations require bringing all cooking equipment.
Off-season values: Winter cabin stays offer reduced rates at some locations. "Cottages suited for two, four, and six people range in price from $225-$285 per night during off peak seasons and $250-320 per night during the peak seasons," indicating substantial savings for non-summer visits to Heckscher State Park Campground.
