Cabin camping near Kings Park, New York provides access to both Long Island Sound and the Great South Bay. The region lies at an elevation near sea level, with maritime influences creating humid summer conditions and moderate winters. Wooded campsites in this area typically feature oak and pine forests, though many beachside cabin locations offer minimal shade coverage.
What to do
Beach activities at Watch Hill: Take a ferry to Watch Hill Fire Island Campground for direct ocean access. "Beautiful location steps away from the beach. Listen to the waves crashing as you sleep and stargaze over the clear ocean. Not ready for full on camp-life? No problem! There are shops, a restaurant and a bar a 10 minute walk away," notes a visitor.
Backcountry camping options: For more seclusion, consider backcountry permits at Watch Hill. "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. After that you can choose where you want to set up camp," explains a camper who enjoyed the privacy.
Water recreation at Kettletown: Kettletown State Park Campground offers fishing and swimming areas about an hour from Kings Park. "Kettletown State Park isn't just for camping. There are also hiking trails, a fishing area and a swimming hole," reports one visitor who enjoyed the variety of activities.
What campers like
Beachfront cabin locations: Wildwood State Park Campground cabins provide direct beach access. "It is right at the entrance to wine country on Long Island and has a beach on the Long Island Sound. (A little rocky on the north shore)," notes a frequent visitor who considers it a go-to spot.
Diverse platform camping options: Enjoy elevated sleeping spaces at certain parks. "They have both cabins for rent and camping spots on platforms which are great, especially when it rains. You can also rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity," explains a camper who visited the Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
Well-maintained facilities: Most cabin camping locations receive regular maintenance. "Bathrooms and super nice and clean. Campfires are restricted to certain areas and you have to share. They do have bear boxes available as this is bear country," mentions a visitor describing the amenities at a nearby outdoor center.
What you should know
Insect preparation is essential: Several parks in the region report significant mosquito activity, particularly near shorelines. "The mosquitoes are extremely potent and plentiful. Take the good stuff," warns a Watch Hill visitor. Another camper at the same location reported: "We were immediately getting attacked so we doused ourselves in deet. Even with the bug spray, the relief didn't last long."
Transportation considerations: Most cabin locations require vehicle access, though some offer alternatives. "This campsite is accessible by public transportation. There is a shuttle run by the campsite to and from Tuxedo Park Train Station (reservations on shuttle required)," notes a visitor at an Appalachian Mountain Club facility near Kings Park.
Site privacy varies significantly: Hammonasset State Park Campground offers variable site separation. "I would recommend reserving early to get some of the more private campgrounds on the outskirts and near the woods or you may be in the field with everyone else," advises a regular visitor who has stayed multiple times.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Choose cabins near play structures for convenience. "There is a playground just for the campground," notes a visitor at Heckscher State Park Campground, who appreciated the dedicated recreation space for children within the camping area.
Age-appropriate program options: Some parks organize activities specifically for younger visitors. "There are park rangers on site and have excellent programs for kids," shares a Watch Hill Fire Island camper who participated in ranger-led activities.
Safety considerations: Look for well-patrolled campgrounds. "Staff patrols for safety. Good place for families and large groups," notes a Kettletown visitor who felt secure with the level of campground supervision.
Tips from RVers
Campsite dimensions and spacing: Riverdale Farm Campsites provides ample room between sites. "The sites are large and level, there are full hookups, and a dump station," reports a visitor who appreciated the spaciousness while staying near Kings Park.
Road accessibility: Check road conditions before booking cabin reservations at parks with narrow access routes. "The road into the campground is narrow and winding, so larger RV mss as y have trouble, but there were several of them there when we were there," advises a Riverdale Farm visitor who observed larger vehicles successfully navigating the entrance.
On-site services: Consider added amenities when comparing parks. "There is a security gate at the entrance... There is a playground, game room, 'adult' lounge, a laundry, a swimming pond, and river access for fishing and swimming," mentions a camper who found these conveniences helpful during their stay near Kings Park.
