Tent campsites near Glen Cove, New York range from seasonal operations to year-round facilities, with most open from May to October when temperatures average 70-85°F in summer. The region sits at modest elevations between 100-400 feet above sea level, creating diverse camping environments from coastal beaches to inland forests within a 40-mile radius. Camping regulations typically permit stays of 2-14 nights depending on location and season.
What to do
Biking on trails: Battle Row Campground provides access to nearby bike paths. According to Michael M., "I have lived 6 miles from this campground for the last 20 years and never knew they had tent sites. The park is clean the bathrooms are well maintained and there is a playground for the kids."
Swimming at beaches: At Watch Hill Fire Island Campground, campers can access ocean swimming. Emily S. notes, "You can get a permit to backcountry camp instead of reserving a designated campground spot. Just walk down to the beach after check-in and walk east until you see a pole with a tent symbol on it."
Winter camping: Cold weather options exist for year-round tent camping near Glen Cove. At Croton Point Park, Wendy C. reports, "We came in October to celebrate Halloween in sleepy hollow! This is a great campsite and reasonably priced. Was close to bear mountains state park and the train station is right there!"
Disc golf: Campgaw Mountain Reservation offers disc golf courses for active campers. Jake R. mentions, "There was also plenty to do during the day, like joining the hikers on those trails, disc golf, and sitting by the water."
What campers like
Proximity to NYC: Many tent camping sites near Glen Cove appeal to city dwellers seeking quick getaways. At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, Ethan K. appreciates that "This is a great place for camping. The shelters are great for people who want to camp and not have to worry about unplanned weather. The best part of this campsite are the endless trails in the area."
Peaceful mornings: Mountain Lakes Park offers quiet mornings with natural surroundings. Joel describes it simply as "the greatest park," while Ben H. notes it contains "lakes, a lookout and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County."
Shelter options: For campers seeking alternatives to standard tent sites, The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center offers structures. Thomas M. explains, "They offer cabins and campsites. We spent 4 nights in the campsite area and this is a first class facility. Very clean. They offer a meal plan that you can get at their dining hall and I HIGHLY recommend that option."
Beach access: Tent sites with direct beach access create unique camping experiences. At Watch Hill Fire Island Campground, Igor K. shares, "Favorite place ever. You can get there by ferry. Very quiet and comfortable. Birdsong in the morning and the sound of the waves."
What you should know
Mosquito preparation: Insect protection is essential at many sites. At Watch Hill, Rosie R. warns, "We were getting attacked by mosquitoes and horseflies the entire weekend. When we first arrived to the campground, we were immediately getting attacked so we doused ourselves in deet. Even with the bug spray, the relief didn't last long."
Transportation logistics: Some campgrounds require special transportation arrangements. At Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area, Craig M. notes, "The campground is rustic with no showers or electricity. Tenting only, with all gear needing to be carried to the site. No vehicles allowed at the campsite."
Noise considerations: Campgrounds vary in noise levels. At Croton Point Park, Jonathan C. cautions, "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."
Fire restrictions: Fire regulations differ between sites. At Battle Row Campground, Katrina M. points out, "There are NO fire pits, you must bring your own. Fires are allowed but you must have a fire container or bucket for your fire off of the ground."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds available: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Battle Row Campground, Lexis N. shares, "This was my first time camping here and I was amazed at how clean the sites were & quiet the campground was. The camp office workers are SO friendly and helpful."
Educational programs: Look for ranger-led activities for kids. At Sebago Cabin Camp, Hashim C. mentions they have "movie nights they do big bon 🔥 on Saturday very kid friendly ranger Joe is 👌 with the kids and they have 🔥 wood for purchase on site."
Private tent sites: Some locations offer more secluded family camping spots. At Battle Row Campground, Michael M. notes, "Each site is set back off a common area so there is plenty of privacy. It's great if your local easy in and out."
Wildlife viewing: Many kids enjoy animal sightings at campgrounds. At The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, Ilya F. describes, "The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Few tent campgrounds near Glen Cove accommodate larger RVs. Croton Point Park has "a mix of w/e (6 sites) and FHU sites plus about a dozen tent sites," according to Lee D., who adds, "All sites appeared level. The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together."
Reservation systems: RV campers should note varied booking processes. Lee D. explains at Croton Point Park, "The reservation process is a bit wonky. You need to call (no online reservations) and then wait for an e-mail, but the e-mail does not tell you your assigned site; you have to wait until you check in to find out your site."
Water and electric hookups: Battle Row Campground provides some RV services. Lexis N. notes, "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!"
