Cabin camping near Hewlett, New York offers access to both Long Island coastal environments and inland forest settings. Most cabin locations sit at elevations under 100 feet, with humid subtropical summer conditions that average 85°F from June through August. Winter temperatures typically range from 25-40°F, making three-season cabins the most common accommodation type.
What to do
Beach activities: 5-minute drive from Heckscher State Park Campground cabins to swimming areas. "Beaches were a 5 min drive. Facilities (bathroom/showers) were clean, campsites were generously spaced, water spouts at almost every site," reports Elizabeth D.
Paddling options: Rentable watercraft at Turkey Swamp Park where visitors access a scenic lake. "In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," notes Lee D., adding that the park offers "several short hiking trails that are fairly well-marked."
Urban exploration: Abandoned buildings near Staten Island Gateway National Recreation Area provide unique exploration opportunities. "There are abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring... There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building," explains Phillip L.
Archery practice: Dedicated range available at Turkey Swamp Park. "Plenty to do over a 2-night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking," reports Dan W., who found the "boat rental rates acceptable" with "four different styles to choose from."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many cabins offer secluded settings. At Butterfly Camping Resort, "Site was large, and had trees and shrubs separating the sites. Friendly staff and clean bathrooms," according to Jen W.
Rustic cabins with basics: Simple accommodations for those seeking minimal amenities. At Sebago Cabin Camp, "These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge. You still feel like you are 'roughing it' but with the convenience of a fridge," explains Sara P.
Waterfront views: Some cabins provide direct access to water bodies. At Croton Point Park, "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper," reports Thomas.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer opportunities to spot local fauna. "Wildlife: deer, rabbits, turtles" can be seen around Heckscher State Park according to W L., who stayed in one of the beachside cottages.
What you should know
Tick prevention essential: Some wooded locations have significant tick populations. At Turkey Swamp Park, one camper reported: "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2... I have been RVing for 2-3 years and this is the first time this many ticks ambushed us."
Insect populations vary by season: Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially at coastal sites. At Watch Hill Fire Island Campground, "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," warns Rosie R.
Fire restrictions differ: Some locations prohibit open fires or restrict them to designated areas. At Watch Hill, one reviewer noted "Two-night minimum on weekends, and no fires. You can bring charcoal to cook on the grills provided or camp stoves, though."
Public transportation access: Several parks offer connections to public transit. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center "is accessible by public transportation. There is a shuttle run by the campsite to and from Tuxedo Park Train Station (reservations on shuttle required)," explains Ilya F.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple sites feature play areas for children. At Butterfly Camping Resort, "Large playground and lots of activities for the kids. Site was large, and had trees and shrubs separating the sites," mentions Jen W.
Educational programs: Ranger-led activities at several parks provide learning opportunities. "There are park rangers on site and have excellent programs for kids," notes Inocencia O. at Watch Hill Fire Island Campground.
Weekend events: Scheduled activities keep children engaged. "Both nights we were there, there were events being put on (a tractor ride, kickball, and a pool movie night)," reports Caitlin F. about Butterfly Camping Resort.
Bug preparation: Essential for comfortable family stays. "We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. We were worried about bugs, but we didn't even use mosquito repellent and didn't get a single bite!" shares JAEWOOK P. from Turkey Swamp Park, though experiences vary seasonally.
Tips from RVers
Site surfaces vary: Many campgrounds have dirt or sand surfaces rather than gravel. At Butterfly Camping Resort, one camper noted: "The site was sandy. The whole place is sandy. This is messy, especially after a bit of rain, and makes it a constant challenge to keep the sand out of the RV."
Varying hookup locations: Water connections may require extra equipment. At Turkey Swamp Park, "Be sure to bring extra hose because the water spigot is a distance from the electric. Sites are level and well maintained," advises Jean T.
Campground navigation challenges: Some parks have tight turns for larger vehicles. At Butterfly Camping Resort, one seasonal camper mentioned: "I am a little concerned about moving to the site they want me to move to in the Spring as the corners around the campground seem tight with trees."
Cell reception limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between parks. At Sebago Cabin Camp, Sara P. appreciated that there was "Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING," while others may need to plan accordingly for limited connectivity.
