Cabin camping near Great Neck, New York offers sites within 50 miles of this north shore Long Island community. Most locations sit at elevations below 400 feet with a humid continental climate characterized by warm summers and moderate winters. The region features a mix of coastal plains and rolling woodland terrain, creating varied camping environments across Long Island and into New Jersey.
What to do
Beach access at Wildwood State Park: Located on the Long Island Sound, the park offers rocky beaches with distinctive bluff views. Wildwood requires a stargazing permit for beach access after sunset. "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 a visitor to Wildwood State Park Campground.
Historic exploration near Croton Point Park: The park includes archaeological sites and historical points of interest within its 508 acres. "This is state park, very large nested on Peninsula on the Hudson River," writes a camper at Croton Point Park. Some visitors appreciate the nearby attractions: "We came in October to celebrate Halloween in sleepy hollow! This is a great campsite and reasonably priced. Was close to bear mountains state part and the train station is right there!"
Hiking at Harriman State Park: The extensive trail network surrounds the Sebago Cabin Camp area with routes suitable for various skill levels. "Been here a dozen times! Great hiking for all abilities. Free camping at stone shelters. Beautiful lakes all over the place," reports a visitor.
What campers like
Peaceful location at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation: The Jefferson, New Jersey site offers spacious camping areas with good separation between sites. "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that," notes a reviewer at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. Another states, "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks."
Waterfront cabin views at Camp Glen Gray: The cabins feature direct access to trails and water activities. "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions," mentions a visitor to Camp Glen Gray.
Seasonal events at Staten Island Gateway: The recreation area offers special ranger-led activities and urban exploration opportunities. "There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building. This place is great if you live in New York city and don't want to drive really far from the city to go camping," explains a visitor.
What you should know
Train noise at some locations: Croton Point Park experiences noise from the nearby train depot. "Only down side is there is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night," warns one reviewer.
Limited privacy at certain campgrounds: Some sites feature open layouts with minimal separation between camping areas. "The tent sites are designated by printing on the roads and do not have clear boundaries between them," notes a Heckscher State Park visitor.
Wildlife precautions needed: Several parks have bear activity that requires proper food storage. "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night," cautions a visitor at Croton Point Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds have dedicated play areas for children. "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper," notes a Croton Point Park visitor.
Group camping potential: Some parks have layouts specifically designed for multiple families. "This place is the best around for group and family camping. The entire campground is one flat open space where some sites are full in the shade and other sites (lower numbers) have lots of sun," shares a visitor to Heckscher State Park Campground.
Seasonal programming: Parks often offer family-oriented activities during peak seasons. "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 visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Wildwood State Park: The park separates RV and tent camping sections. "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities," shares a visitor at Wildwood State Park Campground.
Water hookup considerations: Some parks have complex water access systems. "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection," notes a Mahlon Dickerson camper.
Campground layout challenges: Some parks have challenging configurations for larger vehicles. "Clean park with a place to swim but only within buoys and when a life guard is present. Only one or two bathrooms in the whole place so be prepared to go for a walk when you have to go," cautions a Croton Point Park visitor.
