Cabin camping around Glen Head, New York provides seasonal options across several state parks within a 60-mile radius. While summer remains the busiest season, several facilities like Croton Point Park operate year-round, offering heated accommodations during colder months. The Long Island region's relatively mild coastal climate makes shoulder season camping practical, with less crowding and greater availability during spring and fall.
What to do
Beach activities at Wildwood State Park: The park features a Long Island Sound beach with unique characteristics. "The North Shore experience with high bluffs, sandy calm beaches along the Long Island Sound, and views of CT across the water" makes this location distinctive, according to visitor Amber A. The beach requires water shoes as it's "very rocky," but offers beautiful sunset views.
Outdoor recreation at Heckscher: Heckscher State Park Campground provides diverse recreational options beyond camping. "There are hiking trails and a place where you can rent a kayak," notes Giselle P., who visits annually. Some weekends feature 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."
Urban exploration at Staten Island Gateway: For a completely different camping experience, Staten Island Gateway offers camping with urban views. "You have a clear view of the Narrow bridge and at night the city lights light up your surroundings like a night light," describes Phillip L. The campground features "abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring" with "rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building."
What campers like
Beach cabin access at Watch Hill: Watch Hill Fire Island Campground provides a unique beach camping experience. "You can get a permit to backcountry camp instead of reserving a designated campground spot," explains Emily S., who found "it felt like we had the entire beach to ourselves because there was no one else even close to around us." The location requires ferry access which creates a true getaway feeling.
Group facilities at Kettletown: For families or groups, Kettletown State Park Campground in nearby Connecticut offers excellent facilities. "The campsites are varied, you can tent camp, use a camper, or they also have a few cabins you can rent," notes Elaine C. The park includes "hiking trails, a fishing area and a swimming hole," making it versatile for groups with different interests.
Stargazing opportunities: Some campers appreciate the North Shore parks for night sky viewing. At Wildwood State Park, "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," explains Amber A. This policy creates ideal conditions for evening beach astronomy.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Campground layouts differ dramatically across parks. At Croton Point Park, "Both the tenting section and RV sites are each very clustered together, and quite crowded," reports Paul K. Noise can be an issue as "there is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night," according to Andrew A.
Cabin availability challenges: Securing cabin accommodations requires advance planning. At Wildwood State Park, "cabins look amazing, all booked, you gotta book a year in advance." The newly constructed cottages at Heckscher range from $225-$285 per night during off-peak seasons and $250-$320 during peak periods.
Insect preparation essential: Multiple parks report significant insect activity. At Watch Hill, visitors warn you should "expect to be eaten alive" as it was "nearly impossible to enjoy ourselves because we were getting attacked by mosquitoes and horseflies the entire weekend." One camper advises: "Def bring a shelter or a canopy with a mosquito net!!!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated playground facilities for children. Heckscher State Park has "a playground just for the campground" according to Giselle P., while Kettletown State Park "has a huge land of campsite that the kids can run around until their energy out for the night!" as Jennifer H. describes.
Educational programming: Camp Glen Gray in New Jersey offers structured activities for families. "Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions," notes Christopher M. The rustic cabins are "always clean and stocked with firewood" making family preparation simpler.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many parks offer wildlife observation opportunities. At Heckscher, campers can spot "wildlife: deer, rabbits, turtles" according to W.L., while Kettletown's trails allow for nature exploration. At Croton Point, one visitor warns to "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night."
Tips from RVers
Hook-up variations: RV sites vary significantly in quality and amenities across parks. Wildwood State Park features "water, electric and sewer hookups at each site," though some campers find it "an expensive place to 'camp'" with sites that have "zero privacy and were all pull through."
Size restrictions: Many parks have limitations on RV size. While Wildwood and Croton Point accommodate larger rigs, several cabin-focused facilities like Sebago and Camp Glen Gray prohibit RVs entirely. Before booking, verify your specific vehicle will fit the designated spaces.
Alternative parking options: At AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, "The parking for your car is 1/4 mile away but they allow you to unload and give you a wagon to take stuff to your site." This arrangement keeps the camping area quiet and car-free while still allowing for transport of equipment to cabins.
