Best Tent Camping near Islip Terrace, NY

Tent campers seeking outdoor experiences near Islip Terrace, New York have several options within reasonable driving distance. Fire Island National Seashore offers tent camping at Watch Hill Fire Island Campground, where sites are situated behind protective dunes with beach access. Battle Row Campground in Old Bethpage provides tent sites in a more developed setting with basic amenities, while Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers a mix of tent sites and lean-to shelters for those willing to travel slightly farther.

Most tent sites in the area require some planning and preparation. At Watch Hill, campers must take a ferry and then walk approximately half a mile on boardwalks to reach their sites. "It's a bit of a walk to camp site but all on board walk (we took two carts full of stuff)," noted one visitor. Fire rings are not permitted at all locations—Watch Hill prohibits open fires but allows cooking on provided grills or camp stoves. Battle Row requires campers to bring their own fire containers, as sites do not include fire pits. Bathroom facilities vary significantly, with some locations offering flush toilets and showers while others provide only basic facilities.

The tent camping experience near Islip Terrace offers unique coastal and woodland environments. At Fire Island, tent campers can enjoy oceanfront camping with the sound of waves as background noise, though mosquitoes can be problematic. For those seeking more seclusion, backcountry tent camping is available along the beach at Fire Island—campers can walk east from the check-in area until they see tent symbol markers. Sandy Hook in nearby New Jersey provides another beach tent camping option with sites that include picnic tables and fire pits, though they require gear to be carried in from parking areas. A camper described Ward Pound Ridge as having "great sites and a tone of hiking trails. All of the shelters have fire pits and some have interior fireplaces."

Best Tent Sites Near Islip Terrace, New York (9)

    1. Watch Hill Fire Island Campground — Fire Island National Seashore

    7 Reviews
    Bayport, NY
    11 miles
    +1 (631) 597-6074

    $35 - $199 / night

    "You can get a permit to backcountry camp instead of reserving a designated campground spot. Just walk down to the beach after check-in and walk east until you see a pole with a tent symbol on it."

    "Only about 20 min drive and 30 min ferry trip for us we got to watch hill. Awesome place close to home easy check in and very friendly ppl."

    2. Battle Row Campground

    4 Reviews
    Old Bethpage, NY
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (516) 572-8690

    $5 - $60 / night

    "I have lived 6 miles from this campground for the last 20 years and never knew they had tent sites. The park is clean the bathrooms are well maintained and there is a playground for the kids."

    "They have shower and restroom facilities , the showers were amazing and also so clean ! I had such a great stay and this is deffinatly one of my top favorite campgrounds."

    3. Fire Island National Seashore

    1 Review
    Mastic Beach, NY
    17 miles
    Website

    $25 / night

    4. Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area

    18 Reviews
    Atlantic Highlands, NJ
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (347) 630-1124

    $30 - $150 / night

    "There are 20 tent sites spread across four loops. There is NO beach access. Some sites have shelters, others do not. Pay attention when reserving. All sites have a fire pit and picnic table."

    "Very reasonable rates to pitch a tent. You get a private space with a fire pit. Ocean is close with lifeguards. Good fishing and pleasant people. Boat from New York City."

    5. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation

    9 Reviews
    Cross River, NY
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (914) 864-7317

    $45 - $55 / night

    "Close to the city and civilization, yet large enough to have nice trails and creeks to feel away from it all. The camping sites are very different so it’s useful to go in person and select the area."

    "There’s elevation gain, creeks, and open fields for stargazing. You have the options of a lean to here."

    6. Croton Point Park

    9 Reviews
    Croton-on-Hudson, NY
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (914) 862-5290

    $30 - $60 / night

    "Tent sites are very private with some dirt roads to exit out but thats what make it unique experience! Bathrooms with shower is near by and has plenty porta potties all around."

    "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper."

    7. Mountain Lakes Park

    3 Reviews
    North Salem, NY
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (914) 864-7312

    "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."

    "A gorgeous piece of land that contains lakes, a lookout and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County. A dirt road loops through the property with trails off and through it."

    8. Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area - CLOSED for 2025

    4 Reviews
    Bayonne, NY
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (718) 354-4655

    $30 / night

    "You have a clear view of the Narrow bridge and at night the city lights light up your surroundings light a nigh light. The camp here has 7 campsites here and it fill up really fast."

    "this place is awesome when it comes to finding an affordable place to stay while in NY, this camp ground isnt your usual forest camp sites, however there are some beautiful views, and it is located in"

    9. Webb Mountain Park

    Be the first to review!
    Stevenson, CT
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (203) 452-2806

    $10 - $35 / night

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Showing results 1-9 of 9 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Islip Terrace, NY

235 Reviews of 9 Islip Terrace Campgrounds



Guide to Islip Terrace

Tent camping near Islip Terrace, New York, offers a variety of scenic spots where nature lovers can enjoy the great outdoors while still having access to essential amenities.

Tent campers should check out Wildwood State Park Campground

  • This campground features well-maintained bathrooms and a quick walk to the beach, making it a favorite for families looking for convenience and comfort.
  • With options for tent camping, RVs, and even cabins, Wildwood State Park Campground caters to various camping preferences.
  • The site allows campfires, so you can enjoy cozy evenings under the stars while roasting marshmallows.

Tips for tent camping near Islip Terrace

  • Be prepared for potential noise from other campers, especially on weekends, as noted by visitors at Wildwood State Park Campground.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, as this popular campground can fill up quickly during peak season.
  • Bring your own firewood, as some campgrounds may not provide it on-site.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Islip Terrace, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Islip Terrace, NY is Watch Hill Fire Island Campground — Fire Island National Seashore with a 4-star rating from 7 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Islip Terrace, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 9 tent camping locations near Islip Terrace, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.