Tent camping sites near Hauppauge, New York stretch across a 50-mile radius featuring both coastal and forest environments. Campers access most sites via two primary routes: Southern State Parkway for southern locations and Northern State Parkway for northern destinations. Summer temperatures typically range from 65°F to 85°F, with higher humidity levels at coastal campgrounds compared to inland woodland sites.
What to do
Beachfront hiking and exploration: At Watch Hill Fire Island Campground, campers can explore pristine shorelines. "Beautiful location steps away from the beach. Listen to the waves crashing as you sleep and stargaze over the clear ocean," notes one visitor. Trails behind the dunes provide wildlife viewing opportunities.
Marine wildlife observation: Morning hours offer the best opportunities to spot coastal birds and marine life. "You can take the ferry over across the bay to this quiet little gem on Long Island. Amazing, your own ocean and beach!" according to a camper at Fire Island National Seashore.
Trail exploration: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation features over 40 miles of marked trails. "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," shares one hiker.
What campers like
Private beachfront sites: Fire Island National Seashore offers backcountry beach camping with substantial spacing between sites. "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," explains a camper.
Year-round accessibility: Several campgrounds remain open throughout winter months. Battle Row Campground operates all year with tent sites set back from common areas. "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."
Ferry-accessible camping: Some coastal sites require ferry transport, eliminating road traffic noise. "Favorite place ever. You can get there by ferry. Very quiet and comfortable. Birdsong in the morning and the sound of the waves," writes a visitor at Watch Hill Fire Island Campground.
What you should know
Bug protection requirements: Multiple campgrounds report significant insect activity, particularly at coastal sites. "Expect to be eaten alive" warns one Fire Island camper who explains: "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 regulations vary significantly: Sandy Hook allows fires in designated containers, while Fire Island prohibits open fires entirely. "Battle Row Campground has 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 camper.
Limited facilities at some locations: Many campsites have minimal amenities. "There are no showers, only toilets" reports a Sandy Hook camper. Another mentions, "The sites are very far away from the comfort stations, making these locations better suited for experienced tent campers comfortable with minimal facilities."
Tips for camping with families
Scout for playgrounds: Croton Point Park features accessible play areas near campsites. "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," advises one camper who notes the $50/night fee without a Westchester pass.
Look for ranger programs: Educational activities enhance family camping experiences. "There are park rangers on site and have excellent programs for kids," mentions a Fire Island visitor. Another notes, "There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building."
Consider lean-to options: Several campgrounds offer covered structures for families with young children or during unpredictable weather. "Beautiful campsites! Lots of lean-to sites with fireplaces in them. Our favorite site is #25. Up a hill, totally private and has a lean-to," shares a Ward Pound Ridge Reservation visitor.
Tips from RVers
Water and electrical access varies: RV sites with hookups cluster in specific campgrounds. "Tent sites have provided electric and water and are kept so clean," notes a Battle Row Campground visitor. Another camper explains, "We had a loosely defined gravel pad that was level. All sites appeared level. The FHU sites were back-to-back."
Reservation systems differ: Some campgrounds require in-person booking, while others permit phone reservations. "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," explains a Croton Point Park visitor.
