Tent camping near Hicksville, New York offers options within 30-40 minutes of Western Queens for weekend excursions. The region experiences distinct seasons with humid summers reaching 85°F and winters dropping below freezing, affecting camping conditions year-round. Most tent sites in the area require campers to carry gear short distances from parking areas, creating more secluded camping experiences.
What to do
Swimming in designated areas: At Croton Point Park, campers can swim in the Hudson River but only within buoyed areas when lifeguards are present. "There is a lodge and cabins close to the end of the point, but they appeared to be part of a group camp experience," notes one visitor, highlighting additional recreational facilities.
Hiking trail networks: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center features trails for all skill levels. "Great trails to hike for novices looking to branch out but not too large that you'll be lost forever," explains a reviewer. The center sits near lakes suitable for afternoon paddling.
Urban exploration: Camp Gateway at Staten Island offers unique urban camping with views of the Verrazano Narrows Bridge. "There are abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring," shares one camper, adding that "rangers take you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building." This site provides a different camping experience from traditional woodlands.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Battle Row Campground, tent sites offer seclusion from RV areas. "Each site is set back off a common area so there is plenty of privacy. It's great if your local easy in and out," writes a camper who discovered the tent camping areas after living nearby for 20 years.
Lake activities: Mountain Lakes Park features multiple lakes for recreation with trails accessible directly from campsites. "Mountain Lakes park is a great place to camp within driving distance from NYC. A fun option available at Mountain lakes is to rent a yurt to camp in," notes a visitor who appreciates the diverse lodging options.
Backcountry beach camping: Fire Island National Seashore provides remote camping away from developed areas. "So it's about a mile to three miles to the closest campsites on the western side. Very secluded, and peaceful weekend by the water," reports a camper who enjoyed the isolation despite restrictions on campfires and pets.
What you should know
Mosquito preparation: Insect repellent is essential, especially at coastal sites. One camper at Watch Hill Fire Island Campground warns: "We were getting attacked by mosquitoes and horseflies the entire weekend. Even with the bug spray, the relief didn't last long. We couldn't even enjoy our meals at camp because it was that bad."
Transportation requirements: Many campgrounds require additional transportation beyond driving. "This campground 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 a visitor to Harriman Outdoor Center.
Facility limitations: Bathroom facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "Only one or two bathrooms in the whole place so be prepared to go for a walk when you have to go," reports a Croton Point Park camper, while another notes that at Sandy Hook "there are no showers, only toilets."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated children's areas. "The playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit," notes a visitor to Battle Row Campground who appreciated the recreational amenities despite finding the site otherwise basic.
Ranger programs: Sebago Cabin Camp offers organized activities for younger campers. "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too," shares a camper who enjoyed the structured entertainment options.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites feature observable wildlife. "The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio," reports a visitor to Harriman Outdoor Center, noting how these natural encounters appeal to children.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing concerns: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers varying site configurations. "The camping sites are very different so it's useful to go in person and select the area. Parking is close, but some of the sites are also pretty close to each other so there is less privacy," advises an RVer who recommends pre-selecting specific sites.
Utility hookups: Electric and water connections are available at select sites. "The sites have provided electric and water and are kept so clean," notes a Battle Row Campground visitor, though they mention that "there are NO fire pits, you must bring your own" for those requiring campfires.
Environmental noise factors: Be prepared for noise at certain locations. A Croton Point visitor warns: "There is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night," which can disrupt light sleepers in RVs despite the park's other amenities.
