Searching for the best camping near Hempstead, NY? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Hempstead. Find the best campgrounds near Hempstead, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.
Welcome to Gateway National Recreation Area, Sandy Hook Unit! There are a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities available at the park including history tours, living history demonstrations, hiking, birding, kayaking, camping, swimming, and biking. Sandy Hook is known for its beautiful beaches, the Fort Hancock and Sandy Hook Proving Ground National Historic Landmark, and the country's oldest continuing working lighthouse.
Lifeguards are on duty from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day at five ocean beaches. Please swim only at guarded beaches and only when lifeguards are on duty. When wading, be aware of sudden drop-offs. If you can't swim, don't go in. Surf fishing is permitted at all beaches except when lifeguards are on duty. Fishing beach and "M" lot are prime spots. Please stick to the posted signs for closures, as they do occur throughout the summer months for endangered shorebird nesting. For a great way to see Sandy Hook by bicycle, the seven-mile long multi-use path starts at the park entrance and loops around Fort Hancock. It is shared by walkers, bicyclists and in-line skaters. Bike rentals are also available throughout the summer. Hiking trails begin at the Sandy Hook Visitor Center and at Area M near Nine Gun Battery. Walking ocean beaches is permitted but in spring and summer shorebird nesting season closes some areas. Sandy Hook is a prime spot for birding. Try Plum Island, the Spermaceti Cove boardwalk, the Horseshoe Cove salt marsh, North Pond or the fields at Fort Hancock. Non-motorized, car-top boats can be launched from Beach Area C and Horseshoe Cove. Horseshoe Cove is popular with recreational boaters. Landing on beach with a motorized boat is prohibited. Surfing is allowed on beaches B and C. Windsurfing and kite-boarding is best on the bay across from Beach Area C. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are also available at C beach throughout the summer. Enjoy a blanket picnic on the beach. The North Beach Observation Deck has tables and a view of New York Harbor. Grilling outside of the campground is permitted only at Guardian Park in Fort Hancock. The Visitor Center is now located in the Keeper's Quarters adjacent to the lighthouse and is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. The lighthouse tours with a ranger occur every 30 minutes from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., daily. Climbers must be at least 48 inches tall to climb. For seasonal programs both ranger-led and partner-led, visit www.nps.gov/gate/planyourvisit/index.htm for more information. Please visit www.nps.gov/gate for more information about any of the above.
Gateway National Recreation Area exists within one of the most urbanized areas of the country, covering 26,000 acres of New Jersey and three New York City boroughs. Among the urban environment, the park boasts grasslands, woodlands, sand dunes, beaches, ponds, salt marshes and forests.
Twin Lights New Jersey Historic Site - Situated 200 feet above sea level atop the Navesink Highlands, Twin Lights has stood as a sentinel over the treacherous coastal waters of northern New Jersey since 1828. Named Navesink Lightstation, it became known as the "Twin Lights of Highlands" to those who used its mighty beacons to navigate. The lighthouse tower, museum, gift shop, and other buildings are open daily 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and Wednesday through Sunday 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., September through May. Mount Mitchill Monmouth County Scenic Overlook - At 266 feet, this overlook in Atlantic Highlands sits on the highest natural elevation on the Atlantic seaboard (excluding islands) from Maine to the Yucatan providing beautiful views of Sandy Hook, Sandy Hook Bay, Raritan Bay and the New York skyline. Hartshorne Woods Mounmouth County Park - A hilly, forested 787-acre site overlooking the Navesink River, this park is among the highest elevations along the Atlantic Coast and features prominently in area history as a former coastal defense site. Known for its challenging trail system and scenic views, Hartshorne Woods is a popular park for area hikers, bicyclists and outdoor enthusiasts. Holmdel Monmouth County Park - Holmdel Park is one of Monmouth County's most popular locations for active recreation and nature appreciation. Acquired by the Monmouth County Park System in 1962, just shy of one million visitors enjoy this 565-acre site yearly. This park features a historic farm, an arboretum, fishing, picnic areas, 4 tennis courts, 2 playgrounds, ice skating, sledding and 10 miles of trails - including a 1/2 mile paved loop linking the Pond View and Forest Edge areas of the park with group picnic facilities and playgrounds.
Recreation.gov refund and cancellation policy: Change and Cancellation Policies and Fees Camping / Day Use: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation (including campsites, cabins, lookouts, group facilities, etc.). The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amount. You can cancel or change reservations through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Late Cancellations Overnight and Day Use Facilities: Late cancellations are those cancelled between 12:01 a.m. (Eastern) on the day before arrival and check out time on the day after arrival. Individual Campsites: If a customer cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival they will be charged a $10.00 service fee and will also forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a single night's reservation will forfeit the entire use fee but no cancellation fee will apply. Refunds Customers must request refunds no later than 14 days after the scheduled departure date. Recreation.gov will not grant refund requests after 14 days of departure. Refunds for Bankcard Purchases: Refunds for bank card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank card. Refunds for Check or Cash Purchases: Refunds for Recreation.gov payments made by check or money order, and cash payments at selected campgrounds will be issued a check refund. A refund will be processed within 30 days of receipt and approval. Please Note: Refund requests made during or after departure can only be processed when approved by the facility management staff based upon local policy. Refunds for Emergency Closures: In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team will attempt to notify users and offer alternate dates (as appropriate). If this is not possible, reservations will be cancelled and all fees paid will be refunded. Reservation fees for free tickets are non-refundable in the event of an emergency closure. No-Shows Camping / Day Use: A camping no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Reserved campsites and group overnight facilities will be held until check-out time on the day following your scheduled arrival. Group day-use facilities will be held until check-in time on your scheduled arrival date. If a customer does not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by the times listed under "Late Cancellations" above, the customer may be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit use fees.
$50 / night
The campground consists of 74 Recreational Vehicle sites, complete with water, and 110V, 50/30 amp electric hook-ups. There are 66 sites with sewer hook ups. There are two (gray-black water) dumping stations which are available to campers and non-campers for a nominal fee. The comfort station is easily located and has showers that are wheelchair accessible. There is no tent camping. The Campground will be open from April through November if weather permits.
See the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island right from the property. How great is that!?
Liberty Harbor RV Park is OPEN 365 days a year. for your convenience and also accept check-ins 24/7 even if the office is closed. The NY Waterway Ferry leaves from Liberty Harbor and runs Monday to Friday to Pier 11 at the foot of Wall Street (does not operate on weekends or holidays). Other Ferry options that run 7 days a week are located within walking distance.
Or you can walk up Marin Blvd. 5 blocks to the Grove St. PATH subway station which can take you up to 33rd Street and 6th Avenue or to the World Trade Center Site.
The PATH train is another great option to get you where you are going. You can walk up Marin Blvd.
Either way… Manhattan is just a 15-minute ride away. Stay a day or two or a week or two…it’s up to you. We have maps and directions to anywhere you want to visit and our friendly staff is always willing to help you get there.
You can check your email, pick up a package, or send a fax from our office. We even have postcards to send to your friends.
Whether you have a small motorhome, a big bus, slide-outs, or a tow car…it’s never a problem at Liberty Harbor RV. We do suggest making reservations. We want to make your stay a wonderful experience so you’ll want to come back again and again.
Call today – 800.646.2066 / 201.516.7500
$149 / night
Beaver Pond offers campsites, some with a raised platform, for up to two tents and six persons per site; select sites can accommodate a trailer or RV up to 30 ft. long. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring with flip top grill, and there are shared full-service bathrooms centrally located. Located in Harriman State Park and adjacent to Lake Welch, the campground offers convenient access to swimming beaches, hiking trails, and neighboring state park facilities. Visitors can experience the natural beauty of the Lower Hudson Valley, while having the ease of access to local shops, historic sites, and countless seasonal events.
*Please be advised that there are no electrical hook ups for trailers at this campground.
Alcohol is not permitted at Beaver Pond Campgrounds.
No Pets Permitted.
$15 - $22 / night
Comprising 44 acres of campground and dense woods, Battle Row Campground is an ideal place to relax with family and friends. Battle Row has 64 campsites ranging in length from 40 to 45 feet as follows: 52 sites have water and electricity (31 sites with 30amp/125-volt electric hookups and 21 with 50 amp/125 volt); and 12 tent sites (must be 21 years of age or older to reserve).
A comfort station is equipped with restrooms and private showers. The campground also offers swings, a recreational field, a rally field for club group camping. Leisure Pass holders receive resident rate.
$5 - $60 / night
Heckscher State Park was once the 19th century estates of George C. Taylor and J. Neal Plum. William Nicoll, founder of the Town of Islip, originally built his estate on this property. The park was bought by the State of New York using a donation by the affluent August Heckscher with strong opposition from wealthy local residents. It was one of Robert Moses' most difficult fights to obtain land for public recreation on Long Island. Only with assistance and support from then Governor Alfred E. Smith was Moses able to close the deal on this beautiful property fronting the Great South Bay.
$18 - $22 / night
Campsites: The park has fifty tent and trailer sites with fire rings and picnic tables. Flush toilets and shower facilities are within walking distance. Trailer sanitary station is available. There is an 11 foot height restriction for vehicles entering the camping area. The campground is open from April 1st through October 31st.
Group campsites: The Gordon Field Group Area has fire rings, upright grills and picnic tables. There are four individual sites accommodating up to 25 campers each. The area facilities include flush toilets and potable water. All trash must be carried out. The group campsites are open from May 1st through October 31st. We highly recommend that group leaders carefully estimate their group size and not over-estimate as refunds cannot be made later.
$200 / night
Take the Virtual Tour! - WILDWOOD STATE PARK
Wildwood State Park comprises 600 acres of undeveloped hardwood forest, terminating on the high bluff overlooking Long Island Sound. Swimmers can take advantage of the cool waters of the Sound, and picnickers can relax at shaded picnic tables as their children enjoy the nearby playground. Visitors can fish and use the hiking and cross-country ski trails, making this an enjoyable place to camp and be outdoors in any season. Geography: Wildwood State Park is located near Long Island Sound, on the north shore of Long Island, in Suffolk County. Recreation: Considered a flagship facility, visitors can enjoy the beach, biking, camper recreation programs, fishing, hiking, picnicking, and cross-country skiing. During July and August, movies are shown weekly, and once a week, campers can enjoy an evening of line or square dancing. Facilities: The park has 2 miles of beach on the Long Island sound for fishing and swimming. Each campsite has a picnic table, and dumping stations are nearby. There are 10 cottages, each with a fire ring, screened-in patio, and are available for rent through mid-November. The campground recycles newspaper and cardboard. Other amenities include food concessions, a nature trail, twelve miles of marked hiking trails, a picnic area, basketball courts, ball fields, a playground, and showers. Firewood is for sale at the park; bring your own barbecue or metal fire container.
This campground boasts a spectacular view of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, the longest vehicle suspension span in the United States. When it opened in 1964, it was the longest span in the world for 17 years. It connects Fort Hamilton in Brooklyn and Fort Wadsworth in Staten Island. Not far from the campground is an overlook area which features a vantage point to view the Statue of Liberty NM, the Manhattan Skyline and various forts and batteries in the New York Harbor region. Fortification tours are available on site. Connecting to the bike path, near the campground, is a NYC Parks and Recreation boardwalk where bike rentals and food concessions are available offsite.
Surf fishing at the beach is available for campers with a fishing license (see DEC for details). In addition, campers can attend a ranger-led tour of the historic structures. In the summer months, campers may enjoy walking/sunbathing (no Lifeguard on duty) on the beach at Fort Wadsworth. Swimming where lifeguards are on duty, is available at Gateway NRA- Great Kills Beach or NYC Parks and Recreation beaches. Bird watching, kayaking, biking and playground areas are all located within the Staten Island Unit of Gateway (Fort Wadsworth, Miller Field and Great Kills Park sites).
Thousands of years ago, glacial activity created a morainal hilltop, that is Fort Wadsworth Overlook. Located at the Narrows in New York Harbor, visitors can look out at the hills of Bay Ridge in Brooklyn and eastern Staten Island. Part of Gateway National Recreation Area, Staten Island Unit, has various topographic features, such as hills, fields, maritime forest and dunes, as well as beaches.
Alice Austin House, Snug Harbor, Staten Island Zoo, and Staten Island Museum are all within a 10 mile or less radius.
Changes & Cancellations Recreation.gov refund and cancellation policy: https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies
$30 / night
The campground consists of 74 Recreational Vehicle sites, complete with water, and 110V, 50/30 amp electric hook-ups. There are 66 sites with sewer hook ups. There are two (gray-black water) dumping stations which are available to campers and non-campers for a nominal fee. The comfort station is easily located and has showers that are wheelchair accessible. There is no tent camping. The Campground will be open from April through November if weather permits.
See the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island right from the property. How great is that!?
Liberty Harbor RV Park is OPEN 365 days a year. for your convenience and also accept check-ins 24/7 even if the office is closed. The NY Waterway Ferry leaves from Liberty Harbor and runs Monday to Friday to Pier 11 at the foot of Wall Street (does not operate on weekends or holidays). Other Ferry options that run 7 days a week are located within walking distance.
Or you can walk up Marin Blvd. 5 blocks to the Grove St. PATH subway station which can take you up to 33rd Street and 6th Avenue or to the World Trade Center Site.
The PATH train is another great option to get you where you are going. You can walk up Marin Blvd.
Either way… Manhattan is just a 15-minute ride away. Stay a day or two or a week or two…it’s up to you. We have maps and directions to anywhere you want to visit and our friendly staff is always willing to help you get there.
You can check your email, pick up a package, or send a fax from our office. We even have postcards to send to your friends.
Whether you have a small motorhome, a big bus, slide-outs, or a tow car…it’s never a problem at Liberty Harbor RV. We do suggest making reservations. We want to make your stay a wonderful experience so you’ll want to come back again and again.
Call today – 800.646.2066 / 201.516.7500
$149 / night
Comprising 44 acres of campground and dense woods, Battle Row Campground is an ideal place to relax with family and friends. Battle Row has 64 campsites ranging in length from 40 to 45 feet as follows: 52 sites have water and electricity (31 sites with 30amp/125-volt electric hookups and 21 with 50 amp/125 volt); and 12 tent sites (must be 21 years of age or older to reserve).
A comfort station is equipped with restrooms and private showers. The campground also offers swings, a recreational field, a rally field for club group camping. Leisure Pass holders receive resident rate.
$5 - $60 / night
Campsites: The park has fifty tent and trailer sites with fire rings and picnic tables. Flush toilets and shower facilities are within walking distance. Trailer sanitary station is available. There is an 11 foot height restriction for vehicles entering the camping area. The campground is open from April 1st through October 31st.
Group campsites: The Gordon Field Group Area has fire rings, upright grills and picnic tables. There are four individual sites accommodating up to 25 campers each. The area facilities include flush toilets and potable water. All trash must be carried out. The group campsites are open from May 1st through October 31st. We highly recommend that group leaders carefully estimate their group size and not over-estimate as refunds cannot be made later.
$200 / night
Croton Point Park is a 508-acre park situated on a peninsula on the east shore of the Hudson River. This park offers year-round events and activities and has facilities for camping, hiking and swimming. The park, rich in natural and human history, is also the site of historic wine cellars that are thought of be the oldest in New York State and the Croton Point Nature Center. The oldest oyster shell middens on the North Atlantic Coast uncovered by archeologists on Croton Point confirm that the peninsula was inhabited by Native Americans as early as 7,000 years ago. Croton is in fact named for the Indian sachem, Kenoten, which means "wild wind.” In the 17th century, Indians of the Kitchawank tribe on the Wappinger Confederacy occupied a large fortified village on the high flat at the neck of Croton Point, which they called Navish. This was one of the most ancient and formidable Indian fortresses south of the Hudson Highlands.
$30 - $60 / night
Legend
General: A county park with a mix of w/e (6 sites) and FHU sites plus about a dozen tent sites near a capped dump! There is a lodge and cabins close to the end of the point, but they appeared to be part of a group camp experience. They all appeared to be closed for the season (or because no one was renting at the time; they reminded me of places I used to take youth groups for weekend camps). 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.
Site Quality: We had a loosely defined gravel pad that was level. All sites appeared level. 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.
Activities/Amenities: Other than a playground and a basketball court, there did not seem to be any activities to partake in. There used to be a pool but from the looks of it, it hasn’t been in use for many years. There are walking paths outside of the campground that are located within the park, but we did not have time to explore them.
Bath/Shower house: Clean but a bit dated. No shelves or hooks for toiletries. I was surprised the door was left open all night long. There was a sign warning that the toilets were slow flushing, but I think this may have been fixed because the flush was so powerful that the water splashed over the top of the seat!
Because it was on a point on the Hudson, I had hoped for views from the campground but there were too many trees to see the water. I was perplexed by the signs throughout saying no trespassing/fishing prohibited. I get the no fishing part but the trespassing? When we checked in, we had to write down our credit card number on a slip of paper before we were given a key that opened the gate to the campground. When we checked out, we asked for the paper or to watch it get shredded but were told they had to keep it on file which concerned us.
Traveler
Campgaw doesn’t seem to offer much in terms of a camping experience. The sites themselves are fairly close to the road and there are super popular hiking trails that run right through all the camps. If you like being woken up by folks walking their dog at 7 AM, this is the spot for you.
However, once the sun goes down, the campsite becomes a ghost town (except for the odd sheriff driving down the road). We went on a holiday weekend, and we were the only campsite that was occupied, so that is absolutely a plus. There was also plenty to do during the day, like joining the hikers on those trails, disc golf, and sitting by the water.
All-in-all, it is not a terrible site, especially considering the cheap price.
Traveler
The campsites are very close together without any defining borders so everybody just walks across each other site’s to get to a different one, a path, the bathroom, etc. No solitude, lots of families with kids, lots of music, I mean it’s basically a party. I didn’t realize this when I made my reservations. The place is great for families who want a safe space to camp and it’s a typical Long Island campground. Rangers came around checking on everyone often so it really did feel incredibly safe. I had a pick up truck w/ tinted windows follow me in the park for quite a while which was rather creepy and I couldn’t shake them. When I biked into the campground itself, the pick up truck couldn’t get past the check in area. Everyone I met was friendly and there’s a little shop in the front of the campgrounds that sells various items. I personally wouldn’t stay here again unless I was meeting up with friends or something and wasn’t trying to have more solitude. This is no fault of the park itself though, I’m just more of a woods girl.
LegendThis is state park, very large nested on Peninsula on the Hudson River.
Ranger
The physical facilities are in good condition and are well maintained. The park is very big and is located inside and urban area.
The campsite appears to be designed as a disbursed camping design. However, there is not enough trees and folage to provide any privacy.
The camping area is located on a loop road I would estimate to be about a mile long. There is one restroom/shower house. Some campsites are close but our site was a 1/1 mile away.
The strangest thing is that hunting is allowed in the state park except on Sundays. There was a sign near our camp site saying don't shoot here because there is a city street 40 yards away. However they don't seem to mind if you shoot towards the camp sites.
Other campers near us were LOUD and stayed up well past the quiet time. They were annoying!!
Guide
Perfect place to get away and be in the calm nature. Only sound I’ve heard is the birds in the trees. Very open area with many sites with bear lockers, picnic tables and fire pits. We called ahead yesterday and they said it’s walk-in, so we will go register now because we came in late. Only $20 for out of state!! That’s the cheapest I’ve seen across all New England lol
TravelerWas my very first time camping out, went with my pups and my sons and did the van camping. The spot I had was very well shaded and pretty quiet. The only thing I wasn't big on was how far the trails are, would have to actually drive to it and park in a limited parking area. Due to weather didn't take the risk so am unable to give an opinion on it, but something to remember for the next trip. Only 30-35 min off the parkway, so nice and convenient.
Legend
Be advised that Skyline RV Camp has moved to:
50 Noble St, Brooklyn, NY 11222
The original property location at 2 Oak St was sold and is now private property.
Google Maps coords are 40.730491531436556,-73.9577966772486
There no longer is a waterfront view of the NYC skyline when camping at Skyline RV. The website views are misleading.
ScoutBecause of its convenient location, this is my"home" campsite and the one I visit most frequently. I like the platform sites that are available, the location close to the lake and beach, and the clean shower and bathroom facilities slope game.
Scout
Great location!
ScoutIf you would like a peaceful, clean campground skip this place. This was the worst campground we’ve stayed at. The bathrooms are very outdated and not cleaned often enough. The sites are too close together with very little trees between sites allowing zero privacy. Their picnic tables also are disgusting, bring a table cloth! They have a lot rules one being “no amplifying speakers allowed” that they clearly do not enforce. It sounded like a rave throughout the night even after calling the ranger station and complaining. Guests were playing loud music until about 1:30 AM and starting up again right as quiet hours ended at 7 AM. There then was a religious service happening at 8 AM with a whole amp system we could hear clearly on the other side of campground. We absolutely will not be back.
ScoutI took my 5 year old-son and wife, all of us first time campers. this place was great. The site was very nice, all the people friendly and area beautiful.
ScoutThis is also an ideal place to relax and explore.
Traveler
Truly great spot. Amazing sites with plenty of room, though they are close together. But was worth it for the amenities and fantastic views. Stayed on the bayside (site 30), which had a fantastic direct bay view. Although most sites have views of the bay, some are blocked by seagrass (for example site 28 - huge corner spot but the flat spot to park has an obstructed view). Literally steps to the beach.
Scout
Cool
ScoutThe staff person at Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park is so sweet! She picked a site for us suitable to our vehicle and, with so few people in the campground, away from other folks but close to the bathroom. Going for a hike here in the morning before heading out.
ScoutThere was only 1 bathroom with small shower for all guests, however they are in the process of adding 5 more. The only bathroom did have toilet paper, a garbage can and hand soap for the sink, but no paper towels to dry your hands and no shelves, hooks, or benches to put your things while you shower.
The campground was pretty hard to find. We almost gave up before we found someone local who could point us to the right place. One of the reasons is that their sign is half gone, small, and very hard to read.
The views of the city are spectacular, but the place itself is what I would call very rustic/primitive/not lovely.
The host was helpful but the administration seemed a little unorganized. When we tried to check in, they told us we were a day too early. I had booked through the Dyrt and there was a mixup. A day later, two days later, they texted us that we were late checking in. They had another mixup. On checkout day, we didn't check out on time and they didn't contact us until it was so late we had to pay for and stay another night. It was our fault, but a reminder of checkout time would have been helpful.
I have pictures I would add if there was a way to do that.
Scout
The article also mentions the benefits of camping on Governor Island, such as feeling close to nature, relaxing and enjoying a peaceful space, away from the noise of the city. The language is easy to understand, not too technical, suitable for those who love traveling and camping. driving directions
I found your article to be a good and engaging article, helping readers have an overview and details about the campground at Governor's Island. I hope my review is helpful to you.
Traveler
Perhaps it was the weekend we went but this was an extremely unpleasant trip. The bathroom facilities are wonderful as is the beach but the crowd stayed awake playing music all night very loudly. I think the cabins here are the way to go.
TravelerThis is my "home" campsite and the one I return to most frequently because of the convenience of location. I enjoy the beach/lakefront, option for platform sites, and regularly cleaned bathroom and shower facilities. HOWEVER, I DO NOT recommend going on holiday weekends or peak summer seasons. It will be noisy, there will be generators, there will be loud music. When I plan my trip around the spring, fall, or summer weekends that look sparse it is quiet, clean, and the others that are at the sites are nature lovers enjoying the scenery.
Ranger
This RV park is literally just a parking lot and quite expensive for what it is.
The location is great, but the surrounding streets may be hard to maneuver with an RV if you’re a newbie. You can see the Statue of Liberty from the park, and there were several cafes and restaurants within walking distance.
If you’re looking for actual amenities, this probably isn’t the park for you. But if you just need a base camp for doing tourist activities in NYC then this place will do.
There is 24 hour security which is nice as well. We felt safe while we were there, but it was also fairly empty too.
Guide
Ive been coming here for years. They have great sights and are open all year round. Ive stayed in hammocks, tents, leantos, and even did a good share of car camping. They have many sites and a tone of hiking trails. All of the shelters have fire pits and some have interior fireplaces. The one downside is that you need to book in person but it can be done well in advance if need be.
Guide
A Peaceful Retreat with Room for Improvement
I recently had the pleasure of staying here, and I wanted to share my experience with fellow travelers. Overall, it was a tranquil and secure place, but there were a few aspects that could use some attention.
Pros: Serene and Secure: One of the standout features is the peaceful environment it offers. During my weeks-long stay, I never once had to contend with loud noises or intrusive traffic, creating a truly peaceful atmosphere that's perfect for those seeking a quiet getaway.
Cons: Bathroom Facilities: Unfortunately, the campsite falls short in terms of its bathroom facilities. The stall doors are quite small and lack privacy, which can be a discomfort for many guests. Moreover, only one stall has a functioning lock, which can be inconvenient during peak times. Limited Showers: The campsite has only two showers, and they are not designed for simultaneous use. To make matters more challenging, you must pass through one shower to access the other, limiting the privacy and convenience for guests. Additionally, the absence of temperature regulation can be a drawback.
Maintenance Concerns: During my two-week stay, I noticed a cleanliness issue that needs addressing. There was persistent trash in one of the showers throughout my visit, which was disappointing.
Recommendations: If you're considering a stay here I'd recommend opting for their cabins. Having stayed in them previously, I found them to be clean, spacious, and overall delightful accommodations. They provide a more comfortable and enjoyable experience compared to the campsite facilities.
Additional Note: One aspect to be aware of is that the owner doesn't seem to like dogs. If you're traveling with furry companions, it's essential to plan accordingly.
In conclusion, They offers a peaceful and secure retreat, but there are areas in need of improvement, particularly regarding the bathroom facilities. For a more comfortable stay, I highly recommend their cabins. With some attention to the mentioned concerns, this campsite could become an even more appealing destination for nature enthusiasts like myself.
ScoutOur 36ft motorhome backed up to a raised balcony overlooking the bay. Less than 100 feet from the front of our site was the beach and the Atlantic Ocean view. A stones throw away was one of several shower and rest room buildings. Clean and well lit. Our site had a trex picnic table on a cement patio. An on site firepit was cozy at night. A general store, complete with an ice cream shop window, on the grounds was a treat. And sweet deer. I watcheda momma deer nursing two of her babies. This is paradise.
ScoutI stayed at Cheesequake at the beginning of August and had a very positive experience.
Campsite
Campsites are fully shaded and include a picnic table, fire ring, and hook to hang food supplies from (away from wildlife). The site was well kept and clean - I didn't have to look hard to find a nice secluded space for my tent.
Each site is separated from its neighbors by a small (about 5-10 foot) forested area, and are deep enough that you can pitch your tent away from the road and have some privacy.
The park is bisected by the Garden State Parkway. While the campsite is fairly well protected from highway noise, you're still going to hear it at least a little.
Amenities
The bathroom and shower facility is older and has limited stalls, but I didn't have any issues with lines or finding time to use it. They're closed for about an hour in the early morning.
Potable water is available at the bathroom and showers.
The lake has a small beach and swimming area, and a concession stand. On Friday the beach was pretty quiet, it was closed on Saturday due to water conditions however.
Access
The park is about 2 miles from the nearest train station and can be accessed on foot, but it may be difficult with camping gear. I took the train to the station and a rideshare the rest of the way to the entrance. The campsite is about a mile from the park entrance so it's easier overall to drive, but not required. Bringing a bike to travel within the park would be a good idea.
ScoutI camped here solo on Friday and Saturday over the Labor Day weekend. Overall my experience was positive.
Camping Sites
Each camping site has a picnic table and barbeque grill. The sites are designated by printing on the roads and do not have clear boundaries between them. My site had good shade coverage and was free of rocks and other hazards.
I had enough space that I didn't feel like I was intruding on my neighbors and vice-versa. That said, there aren't clear paths to the restroom building so it's not uncommon for people to cut through the edges of sites to get there. In my experience I (and others I saw) tried not to go right through the middle people's setups to do so.
If you're looking for privacy, the sites at the rear seemed to be less-densely packed, even though every site was occupied. Quiet hours are generally adhered to but not enforced - there were some campers that had noise running later.
Amenities
The restroom building is in the middle of the campground and was clean and had plenty of stalls.
Potable water is available at regular intervals, about at the corners of each group of four campsites.
Cell phone reception is limited - I had data but it was very slow which led to my phone's battery draining quickly.
Access
A car is an absolute must for this part - the entrance is directly off of Southern State Parkway with no pedestrian access. Train stations are nearby so you could take the train most of the way and rent a car from there.
Scout
We are local and have spent most of our beach days at Sandy hook. It’s one of our all time favorite places in the world. So naturally we wanted to spend an entire night down there. The campsites sell out early in the season, but we realized people cancel pretty frequently and we found availability on the night the blue moon was up. We set up camp and went to the beach across the street for sunset. When we got back I noticed the bear boxes were infested with roaches, but we didn’t think too much of it. Fast forward to the morning and we wake up to our tent and everything left out of the tent covered in roaches. We spent 1.5 hours shaking everything out after we went to watch the sunrise, although I ended up having to throw out my tent because it had hundreds of bugs on it and I couldn’t risk infesting my home. I thought I had gotten them all but they were crawling around my car as I was driving home and when I got home, the outside of my car still had a bunch on it. $30/night was a misleading price as I’ll have to replace my tent and get our cars detailed. I had never seen a roach at Sandy hook beaches, and we’ll continue to go back for day trips, but that was a one and done camping excursion. Really sad because it was a nice set up and it would have been fun to camp by the beach.
Camping near Hempstead, New York, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are several campgrounds to explore.
Camping around Hempstead, NY, offers a variety of experiences, from serene nature to family-friendly activities. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's something for everyone!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Hempstead, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Hempstead, NY is Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area with a 4.1-star rating from 18 reviews.
What parks are near Hempstead, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 parks near Hempstead, NY that allow camping, notably Gateway National Recreation Area and Fire Island National Seashore.
