Camping spots near Great Neck, New York range from basic tent sites to full-service RV parks within 25-40 miles of the community. Most campsites in the region operate seasonally from April through October, though several remain open year-round. The Long Island and New Jersey coastal campgrounds experience moderate temperatures with highs typically reaching 80-85°F in summer months and lows around 35-40°F during winter camping season.
What to do
Beach access: Nickerson Beach Park Campground offers direct beach access with swimming restrictions. "Right on the beach! Great spot to camp at if the waves are pumping at Lido Beach on Long Island," notes one camper. The beach area has lifeguards on duty during summer months.
Urban exploration: Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area provides unusual urban camping with historical sites. "There are abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring. There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building," reports one visitor. The campground offers seven sites with views of the Narrows Bridge.
Wildlife viewing: Croton Point Park features abundant wildlife along the Hudson River. "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night," warns a camper. The park also has numerous rabbits roaming the grounds, particularly visible during early mornings.
Water recreation: Multiple campgrounds offer water activities beyond swimming. "We didn't visit Welch Lake beach but for a quick walk to the area for a few pictures," mentions a camper at Beaver Pond Campground, where fishing is popular. Several parks also offer kayak and rowboat rentals for exploring the waterways.
What campers like
Privacy options: Beaver Pond Campground provides secluded sites in some areas. "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," one reviewer explains. The campground's platform tent sites receive particular praise for extra comfort.
Convenience to Manhattan: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers unmatched access to New York City. "Minutes walk to the Statue of Liberty, Liberty Science center. Two blocks away from NJ Path train into Manhattan or take the ferry to Wall Street!" notes one camper. The location makes it possible to combine urban tourism with camping.
Family facilities: Blydenburgh County Park offers family-friendly amenities. "Great park with a nice 7 mile loop around the lake with decent fishing. Lots of horses and dogs on the trail," explains a visitor. The park maintains clean facilities and spacious camping areas suitable for families.
Off-season tranquility: Several campgrounds offer significantly different experiences during off-peak times. "Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great," notes a Beaver Pond Campground visitor who stayed in September.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Campgrounds near Great Neck fill quickly, especially on weekends. "I came at 5 in the morning and there was already a family there," reports a Staten Island Gateway camper. Reservations should be made 2-3 months in advance for summer weekends.
Terrain variations: Battle Row Campground offers distinct site types. "There are 5-7 tent sites. Ours was #59, well shaded and spacious," explains a camper. "Each site is set back off a common area so there is plenty of privacy." Understanding site differences helps select appropriate accommodations.
Fire restrictions: Campfire policies vary significantly between locations. "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," notes a Battle Row visitor. Some parks prohibit fires entirely or restrict them to designated areas only.
Wildlife concerns: Multiple campers report active wildlife at certain campgrounds. "The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping," advises a Beaver Pond camper, where bears have been reported.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area offers family-friendly amenities. "There is even a trail that runs parallel to the beach making it a scenic ride," notes one visitor. Camping with children benefits from sites near recreational facilities.
Beach considerations: Nickerson Beach Park has specific rules for families. "Campsite allows dogs, however, the beach does not. They have a small dog run on the other side of the large beach parking lot," explains a visitor. Families should verify pet and swimming policies before arrival.
Transportation needs: Equipment transportation varies between sites. At Sandy Hook, "No cars are permitted in the campground, so you will have to lug your gear to your spot so choose wisely my friends!" This requires planning for families with young children or extensive gear.
Local attractions: Croton Point Park offers strategic positioning for regional activities. "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!" Families can combine camping with educational outings.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Liberty Harbor RV Park imposes significant space constraints. "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig," advises an experienced RVer. Larger vehicles should request specific sites when booking.
Route planning: RVers must consider height restrictions when traveling to area campgrounds. "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze," recommends one Liberty Harbor visitor. Many parkways prohibit RVs due to low bridge clearances.
Utility connections: Most RV parks offer limited hookups rather than full service. "Sites had electric and water and were in a fenced off section of the marina parking area," explains a Liberty Harbor camper. RVers should verify available connections and dump station locations prior to arrival.
Supply management: Limited on-site services require advance planning. "No on-site stores so pick up all your necessary essentials prior to. Short 5 minute drive to nearby supermarket to pick up food or firewood," advises a Croton Point Park visitor. RVers should stock supplies before arrival at most area campgrounds.
