Cabin camping options around Greenlawn, New York range from rustic shelters to multi-room accommodations with varying levels of amenities. Most sites require advance booking, especially during summer months when demand peaks. Winter cabin availability is limited to select locations that maintain year-round operations.
What to do
Swimming access: 5-minute drive to beaches at Heckscher State Park Campground where "Great site for a party... There is a playground just for the campground. Bring a bicycle or scooper and you can ride the loop around to the beach; you can also drive to the beach" according to Jessica C.
Hiking trails: Well-marked paths at Wildwood State Park Campground connect to longer routes. "There are hiking trails and you can walk to the beach. Note - it is a downhill walk to the beach. The beach is fairly clean and has a small boardwalk," states Giselle P.
Ferry-based excursions: Plan for additional transit time when visiting Watch Hill Fire Island Campground. 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."
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Elevated camping spots keep gear dry during rain at Kettletown State Park. One visitor explains, "The reason why I said that place is perfect for kids? It has a huge land of campsite that the kids can run around until their energy out for the night! Plus you would see awesome stars during the nighttime!"
Proximity to local attractions: Easy access to Sebago Cabin Camp places visitors near shopping and entertainment. "There's a few very cute small towns nearby with surprisingly modern restaurants and friendly people. In the same state park (Harriman) is several other lakes for swimming, hiking, and paddle boating (up the road)," reports Sara P.
Waterfront settings: Direct sound access for viewing. James O. appreciates that Wildwood State Park "is right at the entrance to wine country on Long Island and has a beach on the Long Island Sound. (A little rocky on the north shore)."
What you should know
Insect preparation: Bring serious repellent when staying at Watch Hill Fire Island. Rosie R. warns "It was absolutely gorgeous, don't get me wrong. However, it was nearly impossible to enjoy ourselves because we were getting attacked by mosquitoes and horseflies the entire weekend. Even with the bug spray, the relief didn't last long."
Fire pit policies: Rental or bring-your-own requirements at several parks. "Nice size camp site, bathrooms are descent, lame not having a fire ring, you have to rent one or bring your own," notes Ossama B. about Wildwood State Park.
Parking restrictions: Single vehicle limits at many locations. Giselle P. mentions "Recently they became very stringent about parking to vehicles at the site making it very difficult to visit with a family and 2 vehicles. I usually host group camping trips and the single vehicle rule makes that very difficult."
Tips for camping with families
Cabin selection for young children: Choose locations with playground access. At Heckscher State Park Campground, "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," according to Giselle P.
Meal planning: Kitchen capabilities vary widely between locations. Sara P. describes Sebago cabins as "VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge. You still feel like you are 'roughing it' but with the convenience of a fridge."
Entertainment options: Some parks offer organized activities during peak season. "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too," Sara P. shares.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research campground layouts before booking at Croton Point Park. Lee D. explains "The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together. No one was in the tent sites, but they did have new picnic tables."
Hookup availability: Full services limited to specific campgrounds. "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities," shares Lori R. about Wildwood State Park.
Bathroom access: Facilities vary widely in cleanliness and maintenance. Michael G. warns about Wildwood State Park: "Bathrooms and showers were not really clean, which was surprising because most people used their personal bathroom/shower in their RV."