Camping near Hewlett, New York involves navigating the unique geography of Long Island with its coastal areas, inland parks, and limited campground availability. Most developed camping options sit along the coastal regions or within protected county and state parks. Winter camping options remain limited with temperatures averaging 28-35°F from December through February, while summer brings humid 75-85°F conditions ideal for beach access camping.
What to Do
Beach activities and surfing: At Nickerson Beach Park Campground, campers have direct beach access for swimming and surfing. "Right on the beach! Great spot to camp at if the waves are pumping at Lido Beach on Long Island," writes Michael K. The campground offers programs throughout summer months including movie nights and other family activities.
Biking and walking trails: The 7-mile loop trail at Blydenburgh County Park circles a lake with fishing opportunities. "Great park with a nice 7 mile loop around the lake with decent fishing. Lots of horses and dogs on the trail," notes Erik R. The park remains open year-round, making it a solid option for winter camping near Hewlett.
Urban exploration: Staten Island's Gateway National Recreation Area offers unusual urban camping with abandoned buildings to explore. "There is abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring. There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building," mentions Phillip L. The campground provides guided ranger activities focusing on historical structures within the recreation area.
What Campers Like
Quick city access: Liberty Harbor RV Park in Jersey City offers the closest RV access to Manhattan. "Very convenient location. My wife visited Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The sites had electric and water and were in a fenced off section of the marina parking area," says Kevin A. The park sits minutes from public transportation into New York City.
Family-friendly facilities: Battle Row Campground provides clean facilities and playground access. "The camp office workers are SO friendly and helpful. The sites have provided electric and water and are kept so clean. They have shower and restroom facilities, the showers were amazing and also so clean!" reports Lexis N. The centrally located playground offers recreation for children when not exploring nearby beaches.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Blydenburgh County Park offers secluded camping experiences with natural surroundings. "The group camping on the fox sites is accessible by a dirt drive in. I felt like I was suddenly transported upstate when in fact I had only driven 2 towns over," describes Linda A. Wildlife viewing includes local birds and small mammals throughout the wooded areas.
What You Should Know
Transportation challenges: RVs face significant routing challenges accessing Long Island campgrounds. At Nickerson Beach, travel restrictions impact arrival routes. "I drove down from Connecticut to Long Island to find the main routes to the campsite all went through New York's parkways. There are height restrictions on the parkways so RVs and semis cannot travel on them without a high risk of crashing into the bridges," warns Matt S.
Noise considerations: Many campgrounds near urban areas experience noise issues. Cheesequake State Park sits between two busy roads. "Stayed in the family campground in a travel trailer. Used a fan in the trailer to block out the sound of traffic with the exception of some sports cars/motorcycles speeding loudly," notes Theresa G. The Garden State Parkway runs adjacent to camping areas.
Reservation requirements: Most facilities require advance bookings, especially during summer months. Availability at Nickerson Beach becomes extremely limited. "It's all but impossible to get an RV spot there from Memorial day to Labor day. Still, it is a clean and well run campground," states Michael M. Weekends fill months in advance during peak season.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. Battle Row Campground provides centralized recreation. "The playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit," mentions Katrina M. The playground sits within walking distance from all campsite areas.
Beach safety: Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area provides lifeguarded beaches during summer months. "Very reasonable rates to pitch a tent. You get a private space with a fire pit. Ocean is close with lifeguards," explains Stanley S. The beach areas remain supervised throughout peak swimming seasons.
Pet policies: Campground rules vary regarding pets, particularly at beaches. At Nickerson Beach, "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 Theresa G. Most facilities permit leashed pets in camping areas but restrict beach access.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Limited full-hookup options exist near Hewlett. Liberty Harbor RV Park provides electrical connections but has challenging dump station access. "There is a dump station, but not the easiest to use. The laundry was not working properly and ate a good $5 of our quarters," reports Shawn B. Most campgrounds offer electric but lack sewer connections.
Site spacing: RV parks close to the city typically feature tight spacing. Liberty Harbor has minimal separation between units. "If it's packed, your neighbor will be within inches of your rig. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room," advises Keith and Tia S. Corner sites provide additional space for outdoor seating.
Generator restrictions: Most campgrounds near Hewlett prohibit generator use due to noise concerns in densely packed areas. Bring sufficient battery capacity for extended stays at campgrounds without electrical hookups, particularly at Gateway National Recreation Areas.
