RV camping options near Hicksville, New York span Nassau and Suffolk counties on Long Island and extend into New Jersey. The area features a mix of coastal and wooded campgrounds with varying levels of privacy and amenity access. Most campgrounds in the region remain open from April through November, though a few offer year-round availability with winter camping options. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with high humidity.
What to do
Beach activities at Heckscher State Park: Located in East Islip, the park provides swimming, hiking trails and kayak rentals during summer months. "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. There is a playground just for the campground," notes Giselle P. about Heckscher State Park Campground.
Explore NYC from Jersey City: RVers can use Liberty Harbor RV Park as a base for city excursions. "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," explains Kevin A. Many campers appreciate the transportation options: "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8," adds Joe R.
Local hiking at Croton Point Park: The Hudson River peninsula offers multiple trail options. "There are walking paths outside of the campground that are located within the park," says Lee D. about the paths at Croton Point. "Short 5 minute drive to nearby supermarket to pick up food or firewood," adds Anil S., noting the convenience factor.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites at Cathedral Pines: Suffolk County's Middle Island park features secluded camping spaces. "Wooded sites are lovely. RV sites in large field," says Karen R. about Cathedral Pines County Park. Junior D. adds, "Was a pretty spacious park, very quiet, nice people, but not very many electric sites."
Waterfront camping with urban access: The proximity to Manhattan makes Croton Point Park popular despite train noise. "This must be one of the most breathtaking camp grounds (family friendly) right on the Hudson. Tent sites are very private with some dirt roads to exit out but thats what make it unique experience!" writes Anil S. The park offers water activities too: "...and a private beach which is opened from Wednesday to the weekend with life guards on duty!"
Low-cost camping options: Several parks offer affordable rates compared to urban accommodations. "Camping for just $15," notes Adaly about Beaver Pond Campground. County parks like Cathedral Pines maintain lower fees: "Usually every site (I think $14 a night for green key members) has a decent fire pit/grill," according to Connor M.
What you should know
Seasonal availability varies widely: Most campgrounds near Hicksville close during winter months. "Season: April 1 to November 15," notes the listing for NWS Earle RV Park. Beaver Pond Campground runs "April 22 to October 9," while Battle Row and Cathedral Pines operate year-round.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds have complex booking systems. "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 Lee D. about Croton Point Park.
Wildlife concerns: Several campers mention animal encounters. "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night," warns Anil S. about Croton Point Park. At Cathedral Pines, Connor M. advises, "Be sure to lock food away as the raccoons are pretty invasive."
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Cleanliness and availability differ between parks. "Bathroom was very clean and well stocked," reports Katrina M. about Battle Row. Meanwhile at Heckscher, Ellen C. noted issues: "the condition of women's room was absolutely ghastly inside."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Battle Row Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "The playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit," mentions Katrina M. Similarly at Heckscher, "There is a playground just for the campground," writes Giselle P.
Affordable activities: Several campgrounds provide entertainment options included with stay. "On one visit there was a magician performing for the camp goers. I've even been there while there was a philharmonic concert near the campground," shares Giselle P. about Heckscher State Park.
Kid-friendly locations: Beaver Pond's proximity to NYC makes it convenient for families. "Short distance from the NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," explains Zorina N. about the campground at Harriman State Park.
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: Accessing Liberty Harbor requires careful planning. "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze," advises Joe R. Similarly, for Long Island campgrounds, "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," warns Matt S. about reaching Nickerson Beach.
Site selection strategy: At Nickerson Beach, site locations matter. "The campsite was clean and quiet. RV hook-ups, tent platforms, and rustic tent sites were available," notes Rebecca S. about Beaver Pond Campground, highlighting the different options available.
Electric service considerations: Service amperage varies significantly between rv campgrounds near Hicksville, New York. Cathedral Pines provides limited electric hookups, while Liberty Harbor offers 50-amp connections. "Although no site offers electric or water hook up, camp amenities include: a moderately stocked store, public bath houses, a laundry facility, playground for the kids and camp-sinks with access to water," explains Steve W. about Beaver Pond.
